Creating a simple outdoor bar is relatively straightforward and can be done with a few basic materials. The first step is to choose a location near your patio, deck, or pool deck. You’ll want an area where you can comfortably move around and serve drinks.
Once the location is chosen, you’ll need the materials to build an outdoor bar. Depending on what you would like, you may need a few boards, nails, wood screws, some type of sealant to protect the wood, and plenty of tools.
You can then begin constructing the bar. Have the boards cut to size and fit together. Make sure to use nails, screws, or glue to keep the structure secure and use a sealant or varnish to protect the wood.
Then, you’ll want to prepare the top of the bar. If the area you’re in is exposed to rain, you’ll want a sealed surface to prevent the wood from warping. Materials you can use could include zinc sheeting, granite, or even some types of bricks.
If the area isn’t exposed to rain, you can use wood for the top, but be sure to seal it.
The final step of the process is to add some amenities. This could include shelving for glassware and drink accessories, a refrigerator to store beverages and snacks, and a section for preparing drinks.
Depending on your budget and space, you may also want to invest in bar stools, lighting, umbrellas, and anything else to make your bar the perfect spot for entertaining guests.
How tall should a patio bar be?
The ideal height for a patio bar will depend on several factors, including the size of the patio itself and how it will be used. Patio bars can typically range in height from 42 inches to 48 inches. If the patio bar will be used in a bar setting or as a high countertop, then somewhere around 48 inches would be ideal.
Similarly, if there is a group of chairs or seating area near the patio bar, then a height of around 42-43 inches would be more appropriate. If possible, it can also be beneficial to test out the different heights before making a final decision.
What is a good height for an outdoor table?
When selecting a good height for an outdoor table, there are several factors to consider. The most important factor is the intended application for the table. For example, if the outdoor table will be used mostly for dining, then 28-30 inches tall is a good size.
If the outdoor table will be used mainly for lounging and relaxing, then a higher table of 36-38 inches is ideal. In addition, the height of the chairs should be taken into account. When seated, the average person should have their elbows at a 90-degree angle when resting their hands on the table.
When it comes to the actual table itself, materials and sturdiness are important elements. Materials such as marble, iron, and resin are ideal for outdoor tables as they do not corrode in the elements.
It is important that the table is sturdy and stable to withstand being used for various activities. Finally, consider the overall design of the table. An aesthetically pleasing table that fits in with the design of the outdoor area will enhance the space and experience.
How do you build a bar top table?
Building a bar top table requires some planning and foresight, as well as a few basic tools and materials.
First, you will need to decide where the bar top table will be located and the size of it. Once you know the table size and location, you can begin to select the style and materials. The options are virtually endless and include wood, metal, acrylic, glass, high-density plastic, resin, and stone.
You will also need to decide on the type of supports or legs that will be used. You can go with standard support legs, or you can create something unique and stylish such as a trestle style table or floating shelf.
Once you have settled on the design, you can begin to gather the necessary materials and tools. This will likely include wood, screws, a saw, drill, wood glue, wood screws, wood sealant, and upholstery staples.
To start, measure and mark the bar top table pieces on the wood. Cut the pieces to size and sand them with an orbital sander. If you are using a PVC or other material for the top, be sure to properly measure and mark it for cutting.
Assemble the table using wood glue and screws following the instructions in your measured plans. If you are using a finishing material over the wood you will want to apply a wood sealant prior to the final step.
Attach the legs to the table using appropriate screws or fasteners. Re-check your measurements and make final adjustments as needed before standing up the table and attaching the tabletop material. Use a staple gun to attach the material on the reverse side.
Once complete, you can give the bar top table a final cleaning and apply any desired wood or finishing oils to keep it protected and looking great.
What is standard bar height?
The standard bar height is typically 42 inches, or roughly 107 cm. This is measured from the top of the bar to the ground, and is a comfortable height for most people. Generally, 42 inches is the ideal height for a bar because it allows most people to stand at the bar comfortably, with a good posture.
The average elbow height of a person is 41-43 inches, so the 42-inch height is the perfect height for many people. Additionally, this height allows bartenders to reach over the bar and interact with customers, as well as making it easier to mix drinks.
What wood is for a bar top?
When selecting wood for a bar top, the most popular options include maple, cherry, walnut, mahogany, and oak. Maple is the go-to choice for many homeowners because of its attractive appearance and wide availability.
Maple is a hardwood species with a tight grain pattern and moderate durability. It is easy to keep clean, making it a great choice for a bar top.
Cherry is another popular option. It has a deep, red-brown color and a tight grain pattern. It is relatively soft, so it is more prone to damage than harder woods, but it is still more durable than many other types of wood.
Walnut is also a popular choice for bar tops due to its distinctive grain pattern and dark brown color. It is a highly durable wood and is usually more expensive than other types of wood.
Mahogany is a tropical hardwood that is often used in bar tops due to its rich, reddish-brown color, tight grain pattern, and extreme durability. It can be more expensive than other wood species, but is still a popular choice for many homeowners.
Oak is another strong, durable wood species and is renowned for its tight grain pattern. It is typically light in color, ranging from yellow to medium brown, and ages well, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.
Ultimately, the best wood for a bar top will depend on personal preference, budget, and the desired look. All of the woods listed above provide a timeless look as well as long-lasting durability, so they are all great choices.
Can you use plywood for a bar top?
Yes, you can use plywood for a bar top. Plywood is an inexpensive and durable material and can make a great bar top, provided it is properly sealed and maintained. When buying plywood for a bar top, it’s important to buy the right kind.
For optimal performance, use a 19mm thick, six to eight-grade plywood for the bar top. This will create a durable surface that is easy to sand, stain and finish. Before using the plywood for your bar top, you’ll want to sand and seal it.
Sand the plywood with a smooth grit sandpaper, and then seal it with an appropriate sealant for the finish you’re looking for. Finally, keep the plywood bar top well-maintained with oil and other protective coatings, and it should be very durable and last for many years to come.
How much overhang should a bar top have?
The amount of overhang of a bar top should vary based on how the bar is being used. For example, if a bar is intended to be used primarily for seated guests, an overhang of between 8–12 inches is typically recommended.
This allows enough room to keep guests seated comfortably while providing plenty of space for drinks and snacks. However, if a bar is intended for more of a standing-room-only experience, then an overhang of about 4 inches or less is generally recommended.
This helps to avoid awkwardly bumping into the bar top with legs and arms while socializing. Additionally, when deciding on the overhang of a bar top, the height of the bar should also be taken into consideration.
For instance, a taller bar top will require a longer overhang to make it comfortable for guests to situate themselves in the space.
What can you use for an outdoor bar top?
Outdoor bar tops can be made out of a variety of materials, depending on the desired look and how much maintenance is desired. Some common materials used for outdoor bar tops are concrete, granite, stone, ceramic tiles, composites, stainless steel, and wood.
Concrete is affordable and durable and can be shaped in different ways, but it requires regular sealing. Granite is one of the most popular materials used due to its high resistance to heat, stains, and scratches, but it can be expensive.
Stone offers a variety of different textures, but can be expensive and difficult to install. Ceramic tiles are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, but can be brittle and prone to cracking.
Composite materials are engineered to withstand outdoor elements and offer a more consistent look. Stainless steel is durable and often considered to be the most hygienic, but is prone to fingerprints and requires regular cleaning.
Wood can give an outdoor bar top a unique look, but is prone to staining and requires sealing and re-sealing and can succumb to rot over time. Ultimately it is up to the homeowner to decide which material will work best for their outdoor bar top.
Do it yourself bar ideas?
When it comes to do-it-yourself bar ideas, there are endless possibilities for creating an inviting and unique space for your home. Depending on your interests and available space, you can create a bar with anything ranging from vintage furniture pieces to repurposed shelves and cabinets.
Basic construction tools and materials can be used to create a bar area that can be easily customized to fit your individual style.
If you have the space for it, adding a wall-mounted shelf with a few decorative bar accessories is one of the best ways to start turning an empty wall into a bar area. It’s best to use items that have personal meaning to you, like vintage bottle openers, a coaster set, and a shaker.
Alternatively, an empty shelf or cabinet can be used to create a bar area by utilizing bottles and boxes of various sizes as shelves and painting the cabinet a specific color. Lights can also be strung along the top to add a cozy atmosphere to the area.
As for the seating, there are plenty of commercially sourced and do-it-yourself options. You can start with a pair of upholstered stools or chairs, and then make the rest of the seating out of pallets or crates.
If you’d rather make seating from scratch, re-stain wood and add cushions for a high-end look.
Finally, don’t forget the small details that can really pull everything together. For example, you can hang up a coat rack for storing extra glasses and bottles, and add a chalkboard with the menu of drinks or your favorite songs.
A well-appointed bar area is the perfect addition to any home and with a few simple do-it-yourself ideas it’s easy to create a unique and inviting atmosphere.
