DIY Outdoor Barbecue

http://www.cocoaelectric.com

Outdoor BBQ/Bar: Power extended to 2 GFIC outlets with In-Use cover; flood light installation; concrete poured; bar framed, stuccoed and tiled. Total Labor: 20 hours

Outdoor Barbeque Bar Installed

We've had a busy summer so far! With the warm weather, we decided we needed an outdoor eating area.  Simple, light, yet able to withstand the Florida thunderstorms (and the kids!), was what we desired.

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First, we  cut through the block, ran, and buried the power.  An outdoor flood light was installed for nighttime cooking.  Two outdoor receptacles were put in: one on the bar for the mini-fridge, another on the exterior of the home.  We used outlets with in-use covers, meaning the covers on the receptacles close around the inserted wires for added protection. 
Next, the concrete was poured in sections for added design flair.  While that was drying, the bar was framed.  Once the bar was built, the stucco went on, followed by the leftover tile we had lying around.  We gave the top of the bar a short slope so the rainwater would run off and drain into the crushed coral (67 stone) that we used around the screened-in porch.  Now that the concrete was dry, and the bar installed, we put in the grill and mini-fridge, and began pouring and finishing the concrete under the bar front. 
Unfortunately, after giving our pot metal cafe table and chairs a fresh spray of blue paint, the table was dropped and the glass cracked! Otherwise, we're happy with our progress.  The total labor was about 20 hours, and the project took about 2 weeks due to weather, dry times, and schedules.  It was a pretty simple and straightforward project. And, because we used left over materials, it was relatively inexpensive. 
If you are planning a similar project, keep us in mind. Whether it's us or one our competitors we highly recommend hiring a licensed insured professional for your electrical needs! Contact Cocoa Electric today to see how we can help you with your outdoor project!  Sorry, we cannot provide electrical instruction by phone or email  purely for your safety. We will tell how to make sure you need a qualified professional.