Barbecuing is, for many people, one of the best things about summer. It’s an instant opportunity for a party, and you get to eat some delicious food while enjoying the glorious summer weather. You can spend your weekends relaxing outside and invite friends and family over at your leisure.
But not every backyard is automatically BBQ-ready. Here are a few ideas to create an ideal barbecue area.
A Fireproof, Flat Surface
First, you need somewhere to cook. You can’t just stick a grill in the middle of a lawn and hope for the best. If the ground is uneven, it can cause the grill to topple over or make it hard to cook. A grill can also be a major fire risk, especially if you use charcoal that can cause sparks or fall out of the grill.
So, you should have an appropriate surface to use for your grill. In a perfect world, it would also be close to your kitchen so you can easily transport food to and from the grill as you need it. But you can work around this with portable coolers and tables outside.
A paved or concreted area is ideal for a grill. Decking isn’t fireproof and can be dangerous if it’s a warm, dry day. So, if you don’t have an appropriate area, get some pavers involved to create an attractive and practical grilling place.
The Grill and Equipment
Of course, you can’t have a BBQ without an actual grill. You can find grills in all different shapes and sizes, so it’s up to you to find one that suits your needs. Gas or pellet grills are easy to use but can be pricey. Charcoal grills can be trickier to use, but they impart that traditional smokey flavor you associate with BBQs.
You also need other equipment, such as fuel for the grill. A cooler can be more convenient if you’re grilling away from your kitchen, as it keeps food cool and easily accessible. Grilling tongs and other tools will make it possible to cook effectively, as you’ll need to keep the food moving to prevent flare-ups or burning.
Outdoor Furniture
Finally, if you want a comfortable backyard haven and somewhere to sit and enjoy the outdoors, you’ll need some furniture. A table and some chairs are a good starting point, but it might be good to supply a few other chairs as well, so people can relax where they choose.
You should also invest in a way to provide shade, so people don’t get too hot and sunburnt. Different people have different preferences when it comes to shade, it’s good to have a choice by providing a parasol or canopy.
Outdoor lighting adds a lovely touch as the evening progresses, and a firepit can be a great addition to any outdoor hangout area. Finally, don’t be afraid to add some decor and some plant pots nearby to finish the look.