Hey everyone! 🌟 Rodney and Jake here, and we’re super excited to share the journey of transforming our backyard into an amazing outdoor kitchen space. If you’ve been following our DIY adventures, you know that we love taking on new projects that not only enhance our home but also bring us closer together. This time, we decided to tackle an outdoor kitchen—perfect for summer barbecues and entertaining friends and family.
The Vision
We had this underused side yard that was just begging for a makeover. Historically, it had been a storage area, but we saw its potential as a perfect spot for an outdoor kitchen. Our design was simple yet functional: an L-shaped setup featuring a pull-up bar, parallel bars, and even a modified incline for sit-ups. But the star of the show would be the concrete countertop, giving the space a sleek and modern look.
Starting the Project
The first step was setting up the base structure for our outdoor kitchen. We wanted it to be freestanding, so we aimed for a 24-inch depth on all our posts to ensure stability. Using a handy post hole digger with measurements on the side made this task a lot easier. The real challenge came when we had to break through a thin layer of concrete that was tougher than we expected. After some serious effort with a pry bar, we finally got the post set and ready for the next steps.
Pouring the Concrete
Mixing and pouring the concrete was perhaps the most crucial part of the project. We used Quikrete 5000, mixed in small batches to manage the curing process better in the hot Texas weather. A helper is essential for this part—one of us mixed while the other poured and spread the concrete, ensuring an even and smooth surface. We kept the concrete moist using a standard spray bottle, which helped prevent stress fractures and ensured a perfect finish.
Finishing Touches
Once the concrete was set, we focused on the finishing touches. A hand screed and an edger tool were vital for achieving a professional look. The hand screed helped us level the surface, while the edger tool created a soft, rounded edge to prevent chipping and flaking. After allowing the concrete to cure for about 24 hours, we prepped the surface for sealing. Using a power washer, we removed any loose debris and then applied Ghostshield Cryli-Tek 5505 sealer in three coats, giving the countertop a wet, polished look.
The Result
The result? A stunning, functional outdoor kitchen that we are incredibly proud of. We added a little birdhouse on top of one of the posts for a quirky touch, and it’s already attracting some local wildlife! Our new outdoor space is not just a place for cooking but also a hub for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors.
Why We Love DIY
Projects like this are more than just home improvements for us—they’re opportunities to create, innovate, and spend quality time together. As a gay DIY couple, we take pride in showcasing our skills and inspiring others in the LGBTQ community to take on their own home projects. Our goal is to make our home a true reflection of who we are, filled with spaces that are both beautiful and functional.
Join Us on Our Journey
We hope you enjoyed this behind-the-scenes look at our outdoor kitchen transformation. If you’re looking for inspiration or tips on your own DIY projects, be sure to check out our other videos and follow us on Instagram and TikTok @RodneyandJake. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more exciting content!
Feel free to leave your thoughts and questions in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
