Installing A Bar In The Patio

When it comes to patio furniture one of the first and most desired features that pops in your mind is a bar. Building one will enhance the outside area of your home. And the best material to use for the construction of the bar is teak wood. It has natural oil that protects it from the hostile environment of the patio, making it the perfect material for any outside furniture. Here are some tips on how to assemble your own patio bar.

Of course, the first step is to purchase the materials needed. If you're using some kind of plan or instructions, consult them in order to buy all and the exact materials. If you already know what size pieces of wood will be needed, a good idea is to order it pre-cut to reduce the work in the patio.

For the base, use two-by-four inch pieces of lumber to create top and bottom parts which should be from one foot four inches to five feet 4 inches in size. To attach them to each other, use one by one foot pieces of lumber at each corner. To connect the exterior pieces of the bar to the frame, it's best to use corrosion-resistant nails. As usual leave the back open for storage. Using the teak wood you can consider making some solid panels.

A good idea is of course to install shelving in the back of the bar. To do that, make some ledgers from three quarters of an inch square pieces of wood. In order to hide them from view, recess them at least two inches. If you're planing to install longer shelves, consider putting a middle support to prevent bowing. Use teak wood once again for the counter top. It is quite durable and will match the sides perfectly. If heavy things are going to be placed on the top, adding some ledgers might be a good idea.

When you're finished, touch up the bar with some matching wood filter to hide errors and the nails. This will give it a finished look. Now all that's left is to order some matching high chairs and the fun can begin. Having the bar set up can be the beginning of the furnishing of the entire patio, making it quite a desirable place during the warm summer months. And of course, what is a bar without some cold drinks? To install a fridge is a must. There should be plenty of space for a small one in the back section.

And of course like with every furniture you need to perform regular cleaning. The fact that it's situated on the outside doesn't make the situation any easier. The best way to keep it clean is to cover the unit every time you're not using it and specially when the weather is bad. If occasionally things do go wrong and the bar is a mess you can call some professional cleaners to shine it up. It doesn't matter that it's outside your home, they will cope with it quickly and in style.

In Conclusion

Outdoor furniture is great, but it does have to be quite resistant to sun, rain and everything else that mother nature has in her sleeve.