How to Build an Outdoor Bar

A new outdoor bar can add a new dimension to any yard. You can create a one-of-a-kind bar for your property by building it yourself. You will need a weekend with good weather to work on the bar. You also need some basic experience working with the material you decide to use for the bar.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Paper
• Pencil
• Treated wood
• Water sealant

1. Draw out a detailed diagram of the bar you want to create. Include the measurements for length, width and height. Make notations for the difference in size of the base of the bar and the top of the bar. Show the front, sides and top aspects of the bar on your diagram.

2. Choose the materials you will use to build an outdoor bar. You may have a certain theme you want to create in your backyard, like a Jamaican theme or a classic bar. You can make a bar out of wood, a veneer top over plywood, concrete, stone, granite, corrugated metal or other materials.

3. Purchase the materials needed to match the look you want for your bar. You may need to purchase additional tools to build the outdoor bar.

4. Create a sturdy foundation for the bar. You may place the bar on an existing portion of a patio or pool side. You may choose to lay a concrete foundation for the bar. At the least, you need to clear the ground and level it.

5. Start the bar with the base. You will need to build the frame to provide the support for the bar first. If you are making a roof for the bar, install the columns to support the roof at this time.

6. Add the front and side panels to the bar by attaching the material to the supporting frame.

7. Install the top surface of the bar to the supporting frame.

8. Apply a generous layer of the appropriate sealant for the material you use to create the bar. You want to protect the bar from the rigors of the outdoors.

Tips & Warnings

• Put a roof over the bar to protect it from the elements. Plus, you will enjoy serving drinks under the shade instead of under the sunlight.

• Run a power line to the bar and install a small refrigerator under the bar for ice and cold drinks. Find out where underground wires are on your property before you run the power supply.

• Check with your homeowners association before you build a big bar on your property. It is better to find out if there are any restrictions to the outdoor entertainment area you create before you start rather than making changes later.