🖼️
The project:
The back deck had a large unused space that I wanted to make more functional, so I decided to build an outdoor BBQ area.
After watching a YouTube video on making concrete benchtops, I decided to have a go at building my own. I was really pleased with how they turned out and completed the space with a built-in fridge.
I later added windows to finish the area off. Every aspect of the design and construction was completed by me, with the exception of the tiling and electrical work, which were carried out by licensed trades.
This space has become one of our favourite places to entertain family and friends, especially over Christmas.
- Materials:
https://www.bunnings.com.au/1200-x-896mm-9mm-plywood-pine-bc-grade_p0390151
https://www.bunnings.com.au/project-panel-2400-x-1200mm-9mm-plywood-v-grooved-lining-panel_p0390169
https://www.bunnings.com.au/westbuild-20kg-general-purpose-dry-mix-concrete_p0760236
https://www.bunnings.com.au/zenith-8-10-x-50mm-galvanised-countersunk-rib-head-timber-screws-500-pack_p2420877
https://www.bunnings.com.au/custompine-carcass-ds-16mm-2400-x-1200mm-mr-particleboard-white-matt_p0097412
https://www.bunnings.com.au/dulux-surfmist-low-sheen-weathershield-exterior-paint-4l_p0680693
https://www.bunnings.com.au/coolaroo-2-4-x-2-4m-gunmetal-easy-release-outdoor-blind_p0047637
- Tools:
https://www.bunnings.com.au/dewalt-254mm-2000w-corded-table-saw-dwe7491-xe_p0274900
https://www.bunnings.com.au/makita-18v-brushless-2-piece-combo-kit-dlx2283sm_p0090871
https://www.bunnings.com.au/makita-18v-165mm-brushless-circular-saw-skin-only_p0081206
- Step 1:
I started by fixing the structural timber frames to the existing steel posts which gave me a good solid base.
- Step 2:
I made molds from melamine particle board sheets, these were to make the concrete bench tops, I initially thought I’d need 8 bags of ready mix but that quickly turned in to 22 bags. Whilst they were curing I completed the back side wall using colorbond sheets.
- Step 3:
I trial fit the BBQ and soon worked out I needed a fridge so I had to chop out some brick to allow for this. I then added some blue fibre cement sheets as a base for the tiles.
- Step 4:
I added VJ style panel to the fascias, lined internal space with marine board, I also used marine board for doors, I added light fixtures, grid connect, decking lights in bench top and finished off with a Dulux Satin Black. I later added window frames and tinted glass panel above and 2 retractable Coolaroo Blinds for the Western Sun.
