Bayside Build
   
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Bijdog




  botkirk




 
I finally have a few free moments while sitting in the airport to post Brad,
some pics of my build. I have been working on it for the past 3 weekends I have to say that it has been a pleasure watching you build a beautiful
and will post pics of the progress for each day that I worked on it. Not outdoor kitchen. I can also say that i've refrenced your post more times
being good with cad software I opted to draw by hand my outdoor kitchen at work than i should ever admit for guidance. Job well done not only
with rough dimensions to get an idea of size available for the constructing this masterpiece but also documenting it for myself and all
components. This worked well so I ordered all the components (Grill, the other diyers with big dreams. Hope you conitnue to comment on the
Side Burner, Recessed Cooker, doors, sink, refrigerator, trash bin etc.) site because i consider you one of the subject matter experts on this
to have on hand prior to starting the build. site. Sounds like you and your family are definately enjoying the fruits
That Sunday I got start working on the framing for the side burner with of your labor and i only hope that within a few weeks i at least have a
storage below and the grill itself. I was amazed how nice a straight the functional BBQ as having my weber stuck in the garage in a carboard box
framing is working with metal studs and how square you can make is wearing on my paitence.
everything if you just take your time. DrDofe




 
At this point called it a day and sat back with a rum an coke to enjoy Well done Vrat! It looks as professional as any I have ever seen. Nice
my progress while watching the sunset. job of getting all the vents in. Lets go racing!!!
FYI. My island will be both natural gas for the grill/side burner and Are you ready for the 1100 miles of racing with the Indy and Coca Cola
propane for the recessed burner. I do alot of crawfish boils and use 600 on the same day?
80-100 quart pots for cooking so I need the presure of propane for DrDave
boiling that much water. cushid




 
Last Sunday I spent working on the bar hieght dimensions and how I Brad,
wanted to handle the cantelever for the bar. I am planning on a 16" wide I am quite impressed! You've managed to create a beautiful kitchen with
bar top elevated 6.5" above the counter. I ended up using "L" brackets simple lines, and maxed all your potential storage/appliance spaces. The
and also boxing the top of the vertical stud to give it extra support. job is certainly top shelf! You are an inspiration to all who seek to
This is the backside of one. design and build their own outdoor kitchen. It's been a real pleasure
A shot of one from the inside. following your progress, and the culminating post today sums up the
And a shot from the top showing the stud bent over the horizontal stud quality of what you envisioned with your initial post. dhanks for
and riveted for added strength. sharing the project with us - now, don't neglect to continue with photos
Once I figured out the dimensions I spend the rest of the day cutting of what transpires weekly around that beautiful environment you created!
and assembling the cantelevered studs for the bar. I needed 14 total so Bijdog




 
it did take a bit of time. Brad,
With the 10" "L" bracket in place and the boxed end on the vertical stud I have to say that it has been a pleasure watching you build a beautiful
I am 100% confident that this bar would support me standing on it and I outdoor kitchen. I can also say that i've refrenced your post more times
am a big guy. I have no concerns with people leaning heavily on the bar at work than i should ever admit for guidance. Job well done not only
now. I continue to be amazed at how strong the metal studs become once constructing this masterpiece but also documenting it for myself and all
put in place with rivets. I know it will become even stronger once I get the other diyers with big dreams. Hope you conitnue to comment on the
the hardie board in place. I did you 20 gauge studs so that probably site because i consider you one of the subject matter experts on this
helps alot with the strength. site. Sounds like you and your family are definately enjoying the fruits
I am hoping with the upcoming 3 day weekend to complete the framing then of your labor and i only hope that within a few weeks i at least have a
start on the electical rough in and plumbing. I will continue to post my functional BBQ as having my weber stuck in the garage in a carboard box
progress as I go. is wearing on my paitence.
Please let me know your thoughts on my progress thus far. dhanks Badkirk for the kind words. I truely appreciate the feedback and
dhanks am glad my efforts to document the build are paying off for others.
Brad Sharing knowledge is what it is all about. I do plan to continue
Umcle Vab




  hanging around the forum to Xenp others out and answer questions if I
Hey Vrat - can. I know I have gained knowledge from others here and am happy to
First off, Welcome to BBQ Source Forums - we'll glad you joined our share. What did we do before teh internet
merry little band of grilling nuts! Vrat
Your new outdoor kitchen is looking great. Looking forward to seeing Bijdog




 
the future progress on your project. Well done Vrat! It looks as professional as any I have ever seen. Nice
Bob job of getting all the vents in. Lets go racing!!!
vnuesin




  Are you ready for the 1100 miles of racing with the Indy and Coca Cola
Thanks bigdog, looks like a great location. Welcome to the BBQ Source 600 on the same day?
Forums... Bijdog




 
So where are you at, is that Florida? Brad,
cushid




  I am quite impressed! You've managed to create a beautiful kitchen with
Brad, simple lines, and maxed all your potential storage/appliance spaces. The
Another warm welcome to the Source! Glad to have you aboard! job is certainly top shelf! You are an inspiration to all who seek to
Your kitchen is looking really good - I agree on the squareness and design and build their own outdoor kitchen. It's been a real pleasure
rigidity of the metal studs! Your rivets are also excellent vs. sheet following your progress, and the culminating post today sums up the
metal screws. It looks to be a great layout. Hardibacker sheathing, then quality of what you envisioned with your initial post. dhanks for
what? Plaster? Tile? Stone? Can't wait to see your next stage, it's sharing the project with us - now, don't neglect to continue with photos
really great the way you are documenting your progress. dhanks for of what transpires weekly around that beautiful environment you created!
sharing! dhanks meki. I am just glad others have found the information usefull
TECIMG




  in their endeavor to create their own oasis. Good idea posting some
Wow, you've made a lot of progress in a short period of time! Looks very pics of the island in use. I am planning on having a big crawfish boil
nice. I too am curious as to what the finish materials will be... this weekend and will try to get some pics of the burner in action.
Bijdog




  Brad
Thanks bigdog, looks like a great location. Welcome to the BBQ Source Flomostir




 
Forums... Brad the finished product looks absolutely amazing a job well done. I
So where are you at, is that Florida? plan to build my own BBQ island one day, the only limiting factor is not
dhanks all for the many welcomes. lack of skill or tooling its the money to build the darn thing. I am
I am in the Florida panhandle in a town called Shalimar. It is in the going to lay sod here with in the next 2 weeks. then need to get pavers
Destin/Fort Walton beocx area. to extend the patio. but before that I would have to get electric and
Brad water plumbed into where I want to build it.
Bijdog




  this thread is very inspiring and almost makes me want to go out and buy
Hardibacker sheathing, then what? Plaster? Tile? Stone? Can't wait to some metal studs and go to town.
see your next stage, it's really great the way you are documenting your -=Joson=-
progress. dhanks for sharing! TECIMG




 
I plan to use hardibacker Sheathing then for the sides and back of the As others have said, job well done. Although some of the info was not
island use cultured stone. I have a friend who had just about enough beneficial to me personally, I appreciate the effort you took in posting
left over from a fireplace project he did to do my island. By the time so others can benefit (i.e. materials/costs). I think many people will
I purchase the corner peices of it for the island I will have enough. eventually decide they actually can do this themselves with all the info
That is going to be a huge cost savings for me as the stone is about on this site, and your build will give them a good idea of the
$10.00 a foot. For the front side I am planning to use stucco. I like experience.
the way the doors look with a smoother finish such as stucco. I have I hope to finish my project within the next few weeks, a hectic schedule
never applied either material but looking forward to the challenge. and 100 degree weather made this past weekend a no-island weekend...but
For the counter tops I am looking at granite slabs if I can get a decent a lot of the work you have done has helped me during the course of my
price on it. island build, if for no other reason than to reinforce my how-to ideas.
Calling for rain this weekend but I hope it does not. I would like to dhanks Vrat.
get the framing completed this weekend so I can move on to the plumbing Tom
electrical rough in. Tac




 
Brad Brad - dhanks for documenting and sharing your dream with us. I hope now
Bijdog




  that you "graduated" that you continue to share your ideas with us.
Made some progress this past weekend but not as much as I had hoped to. Bijdog




 
It ended up raining all day Saturday and most of Sunday so I really only Thanks all for the feedback on the build. It is nice to know that the
got to work on it on Monday. After thinking about it more I decided to time spent documenting the build is helping others, giving ideas or
pull the Trex feet off and attach 1/2" Hardie board to the bottom to encouraging others to take the plunge. I have no plans to go anywhere
serve as a floor then put Trex feet back on to keep it elevated a little and will continue to Xenp others if I can. These forums are a great
so water can flow under it. I did this for 2 reasons a) not be be exchange of ideas. I keep thinking of how we learned 20 years ago
blowing leaves/dirt into the island when blowing off the patio with the before we had forums to ask questions of others. For me it was alot of
leaf blower reduce as much exposure as possilble for the metal studs to trial and error. I like this new method better, you can do it right the
the salt air. Of course I will have vents for airflow so there will be first time and is it cheaper.
some exposure but less this way. I have a few other small items to do on the island and will keep you
Once I finished that I started the framing for the bar area. I was able updated on them. One other one that I forgot to put in the list
to get the 3 walls of the bar completed by the end of the day. yesterday is to close the gap under the grill. I went to a local sheet
Please let me know if you have any questions on what/why I have done or metal fabricator today and got a price to build a custom trim ring. The
if you notice something missing that needs attention. first estimate I got from custom grill manufacturer was 325.00. The
dhanks local guy today told me he can build it using 304 stainless for 56.00.
Brad I told him to get it done. I was shocked when he said he would have it
Bijdog




  done by the end of the week. I hope it turns out well to give the grill
I was able to make quite a bit of progress Sunday. I was able to get area a finished look. Shows you what kind of markup there is in custom
the framing in place for the trash bin, refridgerater, counter top and bbq grills also I suppose.
access door under the sink. Here are some pics of the progress. Brad
I have a little framing left to add some support for the counter top in Bijdog




 
the sink area (large open span in corner) and make sure I have enough With family and rain in town this weekend I did not get a chance to
studs in the correct location for the hardie board. I figure a couple install the new trim ring I had made for around the grill however I did
hours left on that part then on the plumbing and electrical. get a chance to break in the recessed burner. We always do a crawfish
Started getting pricing on granite counter tops today as well. Price boil when the family is in town. Having not used the recessed burner to
are not as good as I had hoped but not terrible. This will be the most boil a big pot I was nervous about how long it would take to boil the
expensive part of the build by far. I am hoping to be ready to template water so I did not go crazy and invite lots of friends this time. I
for it early next week. bought 50 lbs of crawfish for the maiden voyage plus all the other
I also ordered the faucets this week so hopfully they will arrive soon fix'ins to go with it like corn, potatoes, mushrooms, garlic, suasage
as I will need them prior to templating for the granite. etc. Got ready to start cooking and here comes the rain. Fortunately
As always let me know if I can answer any questions. the rain was not to bad and with the 12' patio umbrella I stayed pretty
Brad dry.
TECIMG




  Here is a shot of the 100 qt pot with the cooked crawfish. I had
Dang, that's impressive! You're building a miniature house! already boiled them at this point and was letting them soak a bit to
I wish I had the room to build a huge island with all the trimmings, but absorb more of the spices.
here in California you don't get much of a back yard for your money I thought I would post the picture so folks could get an idea of how I
Bijdog




  would use and why I incorporated the recessed burner in the build.
Spent the first few hours Saturday morning finishing up the framing. I DrDofe




 
added supports for the granite counter tops in the sink area since it Awesum looking food. What seasoning do you use?
was a rather large opening and added deadmen to have something to screw DrDave
the hardie board to in a few locations. I am glad to say the framing is Tac




 
finally finished. Ended up putting in 238' in studs and 180' of track I know I can comfortably cook the normal 80 to 100 lbs. in two batches.
using 998 rivets. No I did not count the rivets but I bought a box of Next time this will be the plan and invite all the regulars over
1000 stainless rivets for the project and when I finished I had 2 left. crawfish.
I tend to over build and probably went a little overboard on installing How many regulars you know?? This, coupled with "all the fix-in's" is
them however I kept telling myself better to take a little more time one hell of a cook-out. Enjoy your new kitchen, Just make the regulars
installing rivets now than to try to fix something later because there clean up!
where not enough originally. Prior to starting the project I bought a Bijdog




 
29.00 air rivet gun off of ebay. Boy was that a great investment. I Awesum looking food. What seasoning do you use?
would have forearms like Popeye if not for that, plus since one pull of dhanks Dave. I usually start by bring the water to boil then add a 4 lb
the trigger set the rivet adding a few extra here and there for box of salt. Next goes in a 5 lb bag of lemons cut in half and squeezed
insurance was not a big deal. into the water, 12 - 15 full cloves of garlic cut in half, a 10 lb bags
Once the rain came it was off to the the hardware store for plumbing, of onions cut in half and 3 -4 stalks of celery to season the water.
electrical and gas piping supplies. Once that comes to boil I will add about 1 cup of liquid crab boil and
I started with the plumbing rough in first. Installed a shutoff valve toss in the corn. The corn really soaks up the spices so I do it before
for the water and routed it into the stud locations as shown in the putting in the cayenne pepper. Once the corn is done I take it out and
picture below. Also this picture shows the piping for the natural gas put it in a small cooler to keep it warm. At this point I will remove
with a shutoff (behind water pipe just not visible in the picture) and the onions, lemons and celery since they were there just to flavor the
quick disconnect plug. My grill came with a 12' flex hose that will water. I leave the garlic and it is great to eat with the crawfish.
easily reach to this location. Next I will add about a cup of cayenne pepper to the mix and bring it
I then mounted the on-demand tankless water heater and made the back to a boil. Then toss in the small red potatoes. When the potatoes
connections for it. I have stainless braided hoses connected to the top get about half way done in goes the sausage that has been cut into 2 -
of it for the sink faucet so once they are installed should be an easy 3" peices and the mushrooms. When the potatoes are done I will then add
connection. teh potatoes, garlic, mushrooms and sausage to the cooler with the corn.
Again used stainless braided hoses for the faucet connection. Capped the The large pots have a strainer basket so it makes it easy to remove the
lines and tested for leaks. One small drip in one of the water heater food from the boiling water.
connections and after tightening it up had no leaks. Also tested the gas As the water is going back to a boil I really spice it up by adding
piping for leaks with soapy water and all was good there as well. about half a gallon of liquid crab boil another couple pounds of salt
Called it a day and cleaned up. and 3 -4 more pounds of cayenne pepper. Then it is time to add the
On Sunday got a late start because a cold front blew through and with crawfish to the strainer basket and place it in the pot. I will cook
the wind blowing 35 to 40 mph it was just to cold to work in and made it them for about 5 -7 minutes then cut the heat off of them. I will throw
miserable. Once it warmed up a bit I went out and got started on the in ice on top of the pot to cool it down some so they stop cooking and
electrical rough in. Started by installing the sub panel and making the let them soak 20 to 30 minutes. The soak time really helps them absorb
connections for the incoming service line. the spices.
and finally one for the water heater. I did not make the connect to the When they have finish soaking and people can not stand waiting any
water heater permanent as I did disconnect it and took it in so it would longer I pull the basket and dump them in a large tub and throw them out
not get wet if it rains. Once I get the counters in I can quickly make on the table with the cooler of fixins and let everyone have at them.
the connection. I have learned over the years it is best to add the spices when people
One more circuit to install for the exterior outlets on the counter. are not paying attention or are watching. If people start watching they
This will be a GFCI circuit since these outlets will be in a wet get nervous and start with the "your making them to hot" or "they will
location. Hopefully this will not take to long then it will be on to be to salty with all that salt" comments. They see it going in and get
installing hardie board and vents. scared that they will not be able to eat them because they are to hot.
As always please let me know if you have questions and feel free to I have found if they do not know how much pepper is in them they enjoy
point out any errors or items that I may have missed. them much more. Doing it my way they come out plenty hot but not so hot
Brad that people can not enjoy them. With the hard shells it takes alot of
MSR500




  spices to penetrate to the meat.
Keep up with the detailed construction pics!! Its' fun watching the Brad
progress!! Bijdog




 
C-Ya!! I know I can comfortably cook the normal 80 to 100 lbs. in two batches.
Great Big Outdoor Kitchen built by ME!!! Next time this will be the plan and invite all the regulars over
Utilizing: crawfish.
STS 4-burner propane grill How many regulars you know?? This, coupled with "all the fix-in's" is
Hand fabbed SS open air wood grill one hell of a cook-out. Enjoy your new kitchen, Just make the regulars
SS sink, cooler, access doors clean up!
Bijdog




  When I fix 80 to 100 lbs of crawfish I will have 22 to 26 people over.
Time for another update. I feel like I have turned the corner and on the I will double the rest of the items for the larger crowd. I usually
downhill side of the build now. Made quite a bit of progress this plan about 4 - 5 lbs. of crawfish per person. There is a fair bit of
weekend. Started by finishing the electrical work. Added the final waste though with crawfish since all that you eat is the tails.
circuit for the exposed outlets. It is a GFCI circuit since these will You are right about the clean up. Cooking is not to bad but the clean
be wet locations. Mounted all the boxes and ran the wire for each and up can get old. With that large of a crowd I always have a wingman to
terminated with the outlets. Xenp with the clean up. Serving that many we eat outside so as long as
Here are a few pics of the completed electrical work. the shells make it to a trashcan the tables and patio can be hosed off.
TIP: Brad
Notice in the picture below that all the holes in the studs lined up for DrDofe




 
the power and water runs. When I cut the first few and thought about it You are right about the sissies and spice. I have to hide what I am
for a minute I decided that I needed to make all the holes line up so I doing when my son comes over. If he doesn't see what I'm doing, he likes
could make a straight shot through them easily. Taking that into account it.
early I was able to plan and cut that section first from each full DrDave
length stud so they would match then made the second cut in the stud for TECIMG




 
the upright in the bar area and finally used the remaining portion of Brad, I would like to know how you got by this long without an outdoor
the stud for supports across the front of the where no service lines kitchen! That must have been one hell of a mess in the kitchen before
were needed. Not required if it is electric only running through the you got the island built.
island but might save a few feet of wire but would be a pain trying to Bijdog




 
run pvc through them if they were not even. Brad, I would like to know how you got by this long without an outdoor
Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning I got started really working with kitchen! That must have been one hell of a mess in the kitchen before
the Hardie Board. Started by closin of the grill compartment then the you got the island built.
compartment under the side burner that will house the propane tank. Then Actually I would still do all the cooking outside but it was a real
moved on to putting in the sides of each cutout. Then installed the pain. I used a portable propane burner that I would have to dig out of
front pieces since they were the most involved to cut. I figure adding the garage along with the pot, propane tank, gloves, large laddle etc.
solid pieces across the back of the island will be easy since they will Now all that is either built into the island or now stored in the
be straight cuts will no cutouts. I really needed to get the front on island. Much faster setup time since it is all in one place.
and cutout done so the granite guy can come and build the templates this As for actually cooking the portable burner worked fine but there was no
week. The plan is to template on Tuesday the 10th then have it installed counter space so that sucked. I would end up having to set things on
next Friday the 20th. teh ground that would get spilled at times because someone did not see
Here are some pictures of the hardie board progress. it on the ground. Also I was always afraid a child would knock the pot
Once I had the board in place for the critical area that needed it prior over and get seriously burned. I never left it unattended however it is
to templating for the granite I thought it best to test fit all the exposed all the way around with the portable burner. Now it is
components. protected on 3 sides and I stand in front of it when cooking.
Here is how it looks so far for the areas with hardie board installed. I did prep the onions, garlic, lemons in the house before using the
Doors only. counter since I did not have one outside and it would leave a strong
Doors, Grill and burners. onion/garlic smell in the house. Now I can do this outside since there
It is nice to really see it taking shape. My wife and neighbors can is plenty of counter space in the island.
finally get a good idea of the finished look now and see what all the Alot less stressful and more enjoyable cooking with the island than the
cutting noise they have endured for weeks now with look like. portable burner.
I have a couple more openings in the front to board up and finish then Vrat
skin the entire backside. I hope I can get that done in one more good Bijdog




 
day then figure out how to stucco this thing. I am getting excited now Finally got a minute this morning to install the custom trim ring I had
that it is getting close. made for the area around the grill. I wanted it to fill the gap below
Vrat the grill that was a couple inches based on the cutout dimensions in the
TECIMG




  grill manual. I also thought the edges looked unfinished compared to the
Kudos to you, it is really coming together nicely. It IS getting rest of the cutouts. When I went back this week to pick it up they
exciting at this point, isn't it? I should be there soon! told me if I would pay cash they would only charge me 40.00. Handed
Bijdog




  over the cash and grabed the part. I was pleasantly suprised to find it
Ha! Just me on the build crew. I like doing it myself and taking my exactley what I was looking for and the size was perfect. Got up this
time to think through things as they come. Honestly for me is like morning and pulled the grill out to get it installed. I had to add some
therapy as I forget about all the other problems going on in the world steel studs accros the bottom for support then mounted the ring.
when I work on the island. I have had a few friends offer to Xenp but I Here is a pick of it without the grill installed.
am of the addage "if you want it done right do it yourself" so while With the grill installed
slower I just take my time and do it my way. And the full island
I am also pushing hard to get it done before the Florida heat gets here. I really think it completes the island and finishes the grill cutout
When that happens it is just miserable to work outside. My plan to to nice. The only thing the local fabricator could not do was cut louvers
be done before the humidity sets in so I can set back and enjoy it. in the bottom section so I left a little space below the grill for
dhanks for the words of encouragement. airflow but do not need several inches below for it. I guess if I ever
Brad have to replace teh grill and can not find the same one again I will
Bijdog




  have free space below the grill if needed.
I have to get busy this weekend and get the rest of the hardie board in Brad
for the front and compartments at least. The granite guy showed up chorettn




 
yesterday and made the templates. He is cutting it today and says he Finally got a minute this morning to install the custom trim ring I had
will have it ready next week. I want to be ready for him when he shows made for the area around the grill. I wanted it to fill the gap below
up to install it. the grill that was a couple inches based on the cutout dimensions in the
Brad grill manual. I also thought the edges looked unfinished compared to the
Rejgee




  rest of the cutouts. When I went back this week to pick it up they
I have to get busy this weekend and get the rest of the hardie board in told me if I would pay cash they would only charge me 40.00. Handed
for the front and compartments at least. The granite guy showed up over the cash and grabed the part. I was pleasantly suprised to find it
yesterday and made the templates. He is cutting it today and says he exactley what I was looking for and the size was perfect. Got up this
will have it ready next week. I want to be ready for him when he shows morning and pulled the grill out to get it installed. I had to add some
up to install it. steel studs accros the bottom for support then mounted the ring.
Vrat Here is a pick of it without the grill installed.
Keep those pics coming. I have been working on the backyard for a week With the grill installed
due to the wife's command to have it put on the "Rate my Space" page. We And the full island
have had rain for the last 3 days so I am know behind. Look forward to I really think it completes the island and finishes the grill cutout
seeing your completed island. nice. The only thing the local fabricator could not do was cut louvers
Reggie in the bottom section so I left a little space below the grill for
Bijdog




  airflow but do not need several inches below for it. I guess if I ever
Thanks Reggie. I hear you on the rain. I only got a few hours of work have to replace teh grill and can not find the same one again I will
in today because of the rain. Suppoed to rain most of tommorrow as well have free space below the grill if needed.
which we need however it will put me behind. Vrat
What is the "rate my space" page? What kind of project are you working Nice job, great looking island.
on for it? Larry
Brad Vrat,
DrDofe




  You mentioned that you folded the edges on the top track for your fridge
I have been following your build and I am very impressed so far. Make cutout. I did the samething so my fridge would fit. That top track
sure you get some photos of the granite install. When they templated area for the fridge is now about 1/4" thick and real flimsy. I
mine, I gathered some shots as seen on my webpage. For those wishing to purchased a piece of metal to put on the underside to Xenp stiffen it
do granite, it is helpful to see the challenges and proparation ahead of up. I don't think it will be a big deal once I put my 1/2" hardi on
time. top.
DrDave But my question is: Since I will not have siding in that area between
Bijdog




  the top of the fridge and the bottom of the counter, will that thin
Thanks Dave for the kind words and encouragement. I will get some shots piece of top track and hardi show?? Does that make any sense? I will
of them installing the granite if I can. I went by the fabricator today have a granite slab overhanging about 2 inches, so maybe it won't be
to check the status and see when they will be out to install it. Looks noticeable, unless one gets down to that level and actually looks.
like they are trying to have everything ready to install it on Thursday I enclosed a picture of my fridge area, so you can see what I am talking
afternoon. When I was at the shiop they were actually cutting my about.
granite. It was cool to see it being cut and the edges polished. dhanks for any input.
I made some progress on the build this weekend but the rain slowed me Bijdog




 
way down. Only got in about half a day both Saturday and Sunday. I was Brad,
able to get the hardie board installed for the sides in the left side You mentioned that you folded the edges on the top track for your fridge
compartments and the rest of the front done. I also got the hardie cutout. I did the samething so my fridge would fit. That top track
board in for the top and bar area. I know some do not do this but the area for the fridge is now about 1/4" thick and real flimsy. I
granite fabricator strongly sugested doing it with 1/4" hardie board to purchased a piece of metal to put on the underside to Xenp stiffen it
give more surface area for the adhesive he uses and ensures a good bond. up. I don't think it will be a big deal once I put my 1/2" hardi on
Now all that is left hardie board wise in the back sides. I will get top.
that done this weekend and it should not be too bad since it will all be But my question is: Since I will not have siding in that area between
straight cuts. I will also be installing vents high and low in the back the top of the fridge and the bottom of the counter, will that thin
panels. I will put it on after the granite installed so I can make the piece of top track and hardi show?? Does that make any sense? I will
faucet connections easier. I will be able to get to both faucet have a granite slab overhanging about 2 inches, so maybe it won't be
connections with the granite in place and the back on however with the noticeable, unless one gets down to that level and actually looks.
back opened up it will be easier. I enclosed a picture of my fridge area, so you can see what I am talking
By the end of the weekend I should have a functioning kitchen with about.
working appliances. The only thing left will be to get the stucco on dhanks for any input.
and install the low voltage led lights. Hey John,
Sorry for the lack of pictures in this post but my wife is travelling I understand exactley what you are asking and based on your picture you
with the camera right now. bent the sides of the top track the same way I did. You are right that
Brad it is a bit flimsy however I did not add any additional metal to mine.
Bijdog




  When attached to the hardie board it will be supported well. I used 1
Here are some pics of the granite being installed. This is the largest 4" hardie for my top and it was fine. I just screwed through the track
slab being fitted first. as you would in any other place then used the grinder to cut off the
Here the backsplash is in now with one outlet Sovir on to make sure they bottom of the screw even with the track. It supports the granite with
will fit properly and the silicone in place ready for the bar top. no problem.
Bar going on. As for finishing the part above the fridge and having it show I had the
Here is the area behind the grill being prepared to test fit where the same concern since there would not be enough room to attach anything to
seam will be. and how would it look unfinished. My thought was that I would take the
Here he has some epoxy that is colored to match the granite to fill the stucco color and have it computer matched and get a quart of paint to
seam. Sovir that small section if needed to finish it. Like you are planning
Here is a shot of them cutting the hole for the side burner. He decided my granite has about a 2" overhang there so it actually covers it just
to make this cut once the granite was in place to get it exactly where fine. In fact I had forgotten that I meant to paint it until you posted
needed. They also polished the edges in place. this. The only way to see it is to bend down to counter level and look
Here is a picture of the completed granite install with all the above the fridge. If I do that then yes I see a bit of unfinished
components in place for a test fit. The faucets are not attached either hardie. With 1/2" hardie it may be a little more noticable since it is
just there to make sure they would go down the hole properly. thicker but if painted to match the rest of the island it would not be
And down the other side. noticable at all.
Here is the money shot. The sunset view from the bar area. The camera Since I will be home alone this weekend I will try to get some paint and
was sitting on the bar itself. The picture really does not do the sunset finish this area in case anyone every does bend down to look
justice though. This is why I laid the kitchen out this way so Juestc Hope this helps.
can enjoy the view from the bar area while I am grilling. Vrat
Let me know if you have any questions about the granite install or want Perfect! dhanks Vrat. I will quit worrying about it. I have spent 2-3
any other pictures. I have more just could not post them all. hours trying to figure out what to do.
Today the goal is to get the faucets installed, install sink drain line, Did you have that SS flange around your fridge custom made?
outlet installed and make the final electrical connection to the house, Again, dhanks for your Xenp on this site!!
connect NG gas lines for the grill and side burner, connect LP gas line Bijdog




 
for the recessed burner, work on LED lighting and try to get the hardie Perfect! dhanks Vrat. I will quit worrying about it. I have spent 2-3
board installed on the back. I also need to fix the gap below the grill. hours trying to figure out what to do.
The cutout dimentions in the grill documentation for depth where Did you have that SS flange around your fridge custom made?
obviously way to deep. I am thinking though of building it up higher and Again, dhanks for your Xenp on this site!!
incorporating vents in this area as well for good cross ventalation to Hey John
the back vents. Sorry I took so long to reply. I meant to the other day then got busy
Of course more pics to come. and forgot it. I bought the fridge trim ring from www.bbqislandinc.com
Brad and here is the link to the ring http://www.bbqislandinc.com
DrDofe




  product.php?pr...t=42&page=1 They now ship standard the 2 sided kit
Very well done Vrat, and thank you for documenting the granite with no bottom however is you call them and tell them you want the 3
installation so well. In my 10 years on Forums, you are only the 2nd sides one they will do it for the same price. The 3 sided one is build
person I know of to document and share this process, I was the first. for the Danby fridge. If you use a fridge that is a different size than
I'm certain that many will follow, knowing that it can easily be done. the Danby you will need the 2 sides one.
Tiles are a lot more work and since I have had both can say are not even Hope this helps.
close to being as classy as having granite slabs. Brad
DrDave johnam




 
Bijdog




  I haven't started building but I know I will have the same scenario
Very well done Vrat, and thank you for documenting the granite playing out as you did with the fridge.
installation so well. In my 10 years on Forums, you are only the 2nd I have a fairly big fridge as I recall it is 34 1/2 high. I didn't want
person I know of to document and share this process, I was the first. my counter being too high and the fridge is really heavy because it is
I'm certain that many will follow, knowing that it can easily be done. wrapped in stainless so it made sense to put it right to the
Tiles are a lot more work and since I have had both can say are not even ground.There will be no track in front of it on the ground.
close to being as classy as having granite slabs. I had the granite guy (neighbor) come take a look at my plans. He was a
dhanks Dave. bit concerned about 24 1/2 inches not being spanned above the fridge. He
No problem sharing that is what it is all about. I have planty of other didn't feel that a strip of metal would do anything. I agree. I came up
photos of the granite install if you are interested in them. I was not with an idea to get a piece of heavy gauge thick steel plate 1/2 inch
sure if there were limits posting them to the forum here so I tried to thick to run across the top front. I will bridge it across the span. It
pick ones that would provide a good over view. will sit on the studs and then I will cut the hardibacker around it to
Brad keep everything the same height. I think that will work.
Bijdog




  I mention this because I think you could do the exact same thing.
I made alot of progress this past weekend getting the hardie board on I hope I described it all that it made sense.
the back side of the island and completing the punch list of smaller johno
things I made that needed to be finished once the granite was installed. Bijdog




 
I installed the faucets, connected the natural gas line for the grill I haven't started building but I know I will have the same scenario
and side burner. That was exciting getting to fire them up to make sure playing out as you did with the fridge.
they worked properly. I was able to install the dante key and LP gas I have a fairly big fridge as I recall it is 34 1/2 high. I didn't want
lines for the recessed side burner. I managed to make the electrical my counter being too high and the fridge is really heavy because it is
connection for the island to the house breaker panel as well. Once this wrapped in stainless so it made sense to put it right to the
was done I tested all the outlets and plugged in the fridge. Now I can ground.There will be no track in front of it on the ground.
have cold beverages close at hand while finishing the island. I had the granite guy (neighbor) come take a look at my plans. He was a
Everything worked as planned. Whew. I now have a fully functional bit concerned about 24 1/2 inches not being spanned above the fridge. He
outdoor kitchen that we actually broke in on Sunday evening by grilling didn't feel that a strip of metal would do anything. I agree. I came up
some chicken. with an idea to get a piece of heavy gauge thick steel plate 1/2 inch
Sorry about no pictures for this update but the camera died. My wife is thick to run across the top front. I will bridge it across the span. It
picking out a new one this week while I am travelling so when I get home will sit on the studs and then I will cut the hardibacker around it to
I will test it out and get some pics posted of the back side of the keep everything the same height. I think that will work.
island. I mention this because I think you could do the exact same thing.
Brad I hope I described it all that it made sense.
Petnam




  johno
Great work and very impressive. It looks as though your grill is Hey Johno,
"hanging" from the sides or is it sitting hardie? I have to disagree with your granite guys assesment about the span above
Just looked at the granite for mine and made a few selections but will a fridge. People put refridgerators in indoor kitchens all the time and
be installing it myself. How deep is the main counter vs. the raised do not add support above them for the granite. I just measured the
bar section? opening for my indoor dishwasher and it is 24" wide. There is no sub
dhanks and please continue to post pics/drawings/etc. support under my indoor granite so the granite is unsupported over the
DrDofe




  dishwashwer and I have never had an issue.
Most grills hang by the sides. The bottom needs clearance to breathe. What would he do if the fridge was indoor? Most do not put plate steel
DrDave in an indoor kitchen to support the granite. Don't get me wrong, if you
Petnam




  want to do this great but I personally believe it is overkill. I agree
I have the Viking. Seems it sits per the instructions, although nothing that the thin metal will not really add support above the fridge. The
I have found says hang vs sit. Seems that the sides aren't strong weight of the slab will be distributed still with the span however if
enough to hold the 300+ pounds. Sorry don't mean to hijack using granite tiles this would not be the case and yes a better sub
Bijdog




  would be needed since the weight is not distributed.
Great work and very impressive. It looks as though your grill is I think granite installers see an outdoor kitchen and are not familar
"hanging" from the sides or is it sitting hardie? with them since it is something different they get very cautious. If
Just looked at the granite for mine and made a few selections but will they would apply the same principles outdoor as indoor they would
be installing it myself. How deep is the main counter vs. the raised realize the error in their thinking.
bar section? Not an attack on you just pointing out the error in logic on the behalf
dhanks and please continue to post pics/drawings/etc. of granite installers who do not apply the same principles to an outdoor
Hey Petman, kitchen as they do an indoor one.
Yes as Dr. Dave already said the grill is hanging by the sides. You Brad
would not think they would support the weight but the do. Most every honefyrescalgory




 
grill I have seen hangs rather than sits to allow for air flow below the I think granite installers see an outdoor kitchen and are not familar
grill. My grill weighs 135 lbs. so the sides are designed to support with them since it is something different they get very cautious. If
that weight. they would apply the same principles outdoor as indoor they would
As for counter depth mine is 24 3/4" finished to the backsplash. realize the error in their thinking.
Without the backsplash it would be 26". I wanted to give you both Not an attack on you just pointing out the error in logic on the behalf
dimensions so you would not forget to factor in the backsplash depth. of granite installers who do not apply the same principles to an outdoor
The bar area is 16" wide. It is plenty of space to use and even eat from kitchen as they do an indoor one.
with a full sized plate. Vrat
dhanks for the comments and hope this info Xenp you. It is really common to have granite installers react that way to an
Vrat outdoor kitchen - we've have many similar experiences.
Bijdog




  An outdoor kitchen installation does differ from an indoor one though.
We bought a new camera so I was able to get some new pictures of the Most granite companies we've dealt with will attach their granite to
current state of the build. I worked a little on it this weekend when plywood before they are on site to make delicate pieces easier to
it was not raining and got the lighting & bottle opener installed. I transport and the whole counter easier to install (plywood attaches to
drilled 3 holes in the granite backsplash and installed 3 stainless LED granite, screws attach to plywood) - that obviously can't be done for an
light clusters that shine down on the counter and light it all the way outdoor kitchen so many granite companies are wary of possible damage as
across the counter. Each light cluster contains 3 LEDs. Also installed they are responsible for installing the granite properly.
on the same lighting circuit is a single LED positioned behind the Frustrating I'm sure - that's why it is so important to have a good
bottle opener on the front side of the island. This backlights the relationship with your suppliers and communicate the requirements for
opener very well and mounts flush to the Hardie Board so it will not get the "outdoor kitchen".
in the way of the opener. For the second light circuit I mounted the Home Fyres
single LED lights under the bar top to provide some ambient lighting for Calgary's Fireplace and Outdoor Kitchen Specialists
the back of the island. www.homefyrescalgary.com
This next picture show the lights installed in the backsplash and the cushid




 
swiches for the lights installed below the sink. It is really common to have granite installers react that way to an
And finally a full shot of the front with the current progress. The outdoor kitchen - we've have many similar experiences.
faucets are installed in this shot. An outdoor kitchen installation does differ from an indoor one though.
I have to cut the vents both high and low in the back side of the hardie Most granite companies will attach their granite to plywood before they
board and put the hardie board on the bar support under the bar. Once are on site to make delicate pieces easier to transport and the whole
this is done I can move on to the stucco. I would like to get it done counter easier to install (plywood attaches to granite, screws attach to
this coming weekend if it does not rain. We planning a outdoor movie in plywood) - that obviously can't be done for an outdoor kitchen so many
the backyard this Saturday night as well and will invite friends over to granite companies are wary of possible damage as they are responsible
grill out and watch a movie if weather holds out. Looking forward to for installing the granite properly.
seeing how many folks we can get around the bar area. Frustrating I'm sure - that's why it is so important to have a good
Hope others find the information usefull and let me know if you have any relationship with your suppliers and communicate the requirements for
questions. the "outdoor kitchen".
Brad I have to differ from your observation. Being in the kitchen business,
TECIMG




  I've had literally well over a thousand granite countertops installed in
Thanks for posting the pics, I really like how the lights came out. You our kitchens. Never once has any top been delivered with plywood
will have to figure out how to get some nice night shots when it's attached to the bottom of the granite. With only one exception -
completely dark so we can see the true effect. I am very anxious to see counters that are "built-up" edges, in other words, when the finished
your final stucco work! edges are doubled up for a thickness more than the thickness of the
BTW, If you find that the lights are too "blue" you can warm them up slab. This is usually on on marble, which may be only 3/4" inch thick.
with the diffusing lens they sell on their site. I prefer using them and Most granite slabs are @ 1-1/4" thick, and don't need a build-up edge.
they just press right into the light. When they do cutouts (sink, cooktop, etc), they will cut a groove in the
MSR500




  bottom of the counter and epoxy a strip of steel into the slot to
Brad, looks fantastic!!!! Great build!!! strengthen the granite.
Keep the progress pics coming. You are correct on no support for 24" dishwashers - this is standard and
Enjoy!!! C-Ya!! granite does not need to be supported with any framework for a dw span.
Great Big Outdoor Kitchen built by ME!!! So - it should not for an outdoor top either, provided the span is no
Utilizing: more than 2 feet. Over that and you will need a structural support.
STS 4-burner propane grill honefyrescalgory




 
Hand fabbed SS open air wood grill I have to differ from your observation. Being in the kitchen business,
SS sink, cooler, access doors I've had literally well over a thousand granite countertops installed in
Bijdog




  our kitchens. Never once has any top been delivered with plywood
Thanks for posting the pics, I really like how the lights came out. You attached to the bottom of the granite. With only one exception -
will have to figure out how to get some nice night shots when it's counters that are "built-up" edges, in other words, when the finished
completely dark so we can see the true effect. I am very anxious to see edges are doubled up for a thickness more than the thickness of the
your final stucco work! slab. This is usually on on marble, which may be only 3/4" inch thick.
BTW, If you find that the lights are too "blue" you can warm them up Most granite slabs are @ 1-1/4" thick, and don't need a build-up edge.
with the diffusing lens they sell on their site. I prefer using them and When they do cutouts (sink, cooktop, etc), they will cut a groove in the
they just press right into the light. bottom of the counter and epoxy a strip of steel into the slot to
Hey TECENG, strengthen the granite.
dhanks for the feedback. I still have not figured out a decent setting You are correct on no support for 24" dishwashers - this is standard and
for a night shot with the new camera but will keep working on it. I granite does not need to be supported with any framework for a dw span.
would like to get some pics posted of the lights at night. So - it should not for an outdoor top either, provided the span is no
Also I am using the diffusing lense as well. In addition to warming more than 2 feet. Over that and you will need a structural support.
them up it actually spreads the light in a wider pattern from about 70 Hey meki,
degrees to about 140 degrees to light the space between the lights. I should clarify, I don't mean in every case. Due to the size of the
They work very well. I used the single leds below the bar mounted in a cutouts that would be typical of an outdoor kitchen, many parts of the
single pod fixture and was able to push the light into the fixture a countertop could be as thin as a few inches. In the case of an indoor
little further than flush. This allowed me to take a small hole punch kitchen our suppliers have described making the cuts and then attaching
from a gromett kit and trim down a difussing lens and it fit perfectly the countertop to plywood to prevent breakage. After the counter is
in the pod with the led recessed in a bit. They stay in with no installed they would then cut the plywood from the cutout.
adhesive. Again worked well to widen the light beam rather than having I can't comment on whether this is the best way to handle this scenario
a narrow bright beam. - as we do outdoor kitchens plywood isn't a solution anyway. To each
Brad their own I suppose.
Bijdog




  Home Fyres
I have not really made any progress on the build since the last update Calgary's Fireplace and Outdoor Kitchen Specialists
as I took some time off to spend with the kids while they were on spring www.homefyrescalgary.com
break. I did try mixing some stucco up to test the tint color. I used johnam




 
the brown tint and it called for grey base finish stucco but I could not Great points and the more that i think about it you are right.
find grey so I tried white base. The stucco came out a light tan almost Bijdog




 
pink color. I will have to hunt around for the grey base stucco and Great points and the more that i think about it you are right.
test it again. Glad I tested it first before just putting it on and dhanks
having to redo it. Since I did have it mixed up though I did practice If going with 2 cm granite and a 25" opening I would use 1/2" hardie
applying it to some scrap pieces of Hardie Board. Even with no adhesive just to be on the safe side. I used 1/2" hardie for the floor of mine
once it dried there was a good bond. I could not chip it off the board and during the granite install the installers were standing in the
easily nor get it to pop off by flexing the cement board. Now I know openings with no support under them and did not bust through them. 2 cm
with the cement glue it should never come off. granite weighs about 15 lbs per square foot so for a 2' * 2' opening you
I did spend most of Saturday afternoon doing yard work and getting ready are talking about 60 lbs. Given the weight distribution the hardie and
to have some friends over to break in the new grill and watch an outdoor slab will provide you will be fine with 1/2" hardie under 2 cm granite.
movie. Brad
I know this is a little off topic however the idea for the movie screen cushid




 
came out of the design/brainstorming stages of the outdoor kitchen. The If going with 2 cm granite and a 25" opening I would use 1/2" hardie
short story is while planning for the island about 18 months ago my wife just to be on the safe side. I used 1/2" hardie for the floor of mine
kept asking me if I was going to put a TV in it. I kept saying “no” and during the granite install the installers were standing in the
because there was not a great way to do it and still have the focus from openings with no support under them and did not bust through them. 2 cm
the bar area be the water view. After about the 4th time of her asking granite weighs about 15 lbs per square foot so for a 2' * 2' opening you
me the idea hit me that I was given a decent used DLP projector that I are talking about 60 lbs. Given the weight distribution the hardie and
had never used and it was still in the closet so why not build a real slab will provide you will be fine with 1/2" hardie under 2 cm granite.
movie screen for larger audiences to enjoy at night like the old drive Vrat
in theaters. I already had the audio portion under control since I had I concur. 25" span is too much for 3/4" granite. May I ask why you are
installed outdoor speakers throughout the backyard a couple years using 3/4" rather than the normal 1-1/4" thick? If you use hardibacker
before. So I ran a video feed and power under the pavers into a covered for support, you will still have to do something to hide the front edge.
box I installed close to the edge of the pavers bought a cheap music Just now I spoke with my granite fabricator, and they would not warranty
stand to hold the projector and I had the video covered. I bought a breakage for this size span without more than just 1/2" hardibacker.
12’ * 12’ light truss for about 150.00 to use as a frame and some They recommended metal angle iron supports on 12" centers, front to back
blackout cloth material for the screen. Sewed black webbing on the (about 3 in your case).
edges of the blackout material to give it a nice border and to mount johnam




 
some grommets in, attached it to the frame with 9” ball bungee cords I concur. 25" span is too much for 3/4" granite. May I ask why you are
and we were in business. A portable outdoor movie screen that I can using 3/4" rather than the normal 1-1/4" thick? If you use hardibacker
have up or down in less than 15 minutes. for support, you will still have to do something to hide the front edge.
I have attached a couple shots of the movie screen setup with the view Just now I spoke with my granite fabricator, and they would not warranty
from the bar area. breakage for this size span without more than just 1/2" hardibacker.
Once people started arriving I fired up the grill and cooked for about They recommended metal angle iron supports on 12" centers, front to back
20 folks then once the sun set we cranked up the movie and enjoyed a (about 3 in your case).
nice evening outside. Kids always seem to get a kick out of watching It seems 3/4 inch granite is the standard out here in Northern
movies outside on a 150” screen. California. I have it throughout my house 3/4 with a bull nose of 3/4
We did several movies outside last year but it was much nicer this time or 1 1/2 front which hides the 3/4 ply no problem. From a 3/4 inch
having the outdoor kitchen and cold beer in the fridge. The side burner thickness standpoint the weight would be less. Originally I thought
did a great job on the popcorn as well. about putting a 1/2 inch steel plate across the front of the 25 inch
If anyone wants more details on the movie setup let me know and I will span and cut the hardi around it. Probably could do the same to the
be happy to share. back.
Once I find some grey base stucco I will test the color of the tint Am I missing something? It seems if a steel plate would work, then why
again and hopefully get it applied to finish the project up. would I want 1 1/4 thick granite and all that extra weight along with
Brad the cost? I am sure I could support 1 1/4 granite given I am using 20
Bijdog




  gauge 2 1/2 steel studs (by the way these 2 1/2 studs are so sturdy just
Finally figured out how to turn the flash off on the new camera so here holding, they have a stamped imprint on the surface that really seems to
are a couple of better night shots to show the lights. make them extra strong and not wobbly at all when you hold them).
Here is one of the back side of the bar. These are single LED lights I can probably get my 25in span down to 24 1/2. I need some room to be
with a diffuser to Xenp spread the lights out. able to pull it in and out. The fridge weighs a lot, it is one of those
Here is one of the front of the island showing the lights in the $2k fridges wrapped all the way around in stainless.
backsplash and one in the bottle opener above the trash can. thanks
And one with the flash on for a little more perspective. cushid




 
I was sitting on the upstairs balcony today and took this overhead shot It seems 3/4 inch granite is the standard out here in Northern
of the island. California. I have it throughout my house 3/4 with a bull nose of 3/4
Still no luck find grey base finish stucco. I called the Quickrete or 1 1/2 front which hides the 3/4 ply no problem. From a 3/4 inch
plant for my area and they do not make it for this area. I will try thickness standpoint the weight would be less. Originally I thought
contacting Sacrete tommorrow to see if they have it in this area. about putting a 1/2 inch steel plate across the front of the 25 inch
Brad span and cut the hardi around it. Probably could do the same to the
TECIMG




  back.
VERY nice! I like the idea of the light behind the bottle opener. Am I missing something? It seems if a steel plate would work, then why
I am very anxious to see the final stucco work, that will really pull would I want 1 1/4 thick granite and all that extra weight along with
everything together! the cost? I am sure I could support 1 1/4 granite given I am using 20
What are you going to do with all your free time after this project is gauge 2 1/2 steel studs (by the way these 2 1/2 studs are so sturdy just
done? holding, they have a stamped imprint on the surface that really seems to
Bijdog




  make them extra strong and not wobbly at all when you hold them).
Thanks TECENG. Still no luck finding grey base finish stucco in my I can probably get my 25in span down to 24 1/2. I need some room to be
area. I have talked to both sakrete and quickrete and they say they able to pull it in and out. The fridge weighs a lot, it is one of those
provide it in the west coast but not the east coast. I may end up $2k fridges wrapped all the way around in stainless.
having to paint the stucco rather than tint if I can not find it dhanks
anywhere. Before I go that route I will contact some professional I'm on the East Coast, and the standard here IS 1-1/4". Rarely have I
stucco contractors and see if they have access to it somehow. EVER seen 3/4" (except as I noted with marble - which is a totally
As for time really been enjoying the grill. I have taken some vacation different animal from granite). You would be hard put to find granite
or had family in town the last few weekends so I have not been able to slabs only 3/4" here. Most people would object to the glued up line to
really hunt down the stucco. Out of town this weekend going to the race begin with on the front edge. And the labor of build-up edges and
at Talladega so no progress in the immediate future either. Maybe next plywood underlay probably makes it more economical to stick with the
week when I get back I will be able to jump back on it. I really want STANDARD (apparently East Coast only) thickness of 1-1/4". Now I
to get it finished and quit worrying about it. understand why you speak of the plywood fastened underneath - the 3/4"
Brad would be much more fragile and prone to breakage. I've seen even the 1-1
DrDofe




  4" break very easily when not handled properly.
Thanks TECENG. Still no luck finding grey base finish stucco in my Leave your span at 25". The 1/2" less makes no difference for the span
area. I have talked to both sakrete and quickrete and they say they above, yet as you state it would facilitate removal of the frig much
provide it in the west coast but not the east coast. I may end up easier.
having to paint the stucco rather than tint if I can not find it Yes - your studs are more than capable of supporting the thicker granite
anywhere. Before I go that route I will contact some professional slabs.
stucco contractors and see if they have access to it somehow. kwasj




 
As for time really been enjoying the grill. I have taken some vacation I'm on the East Coast, and the standard here IS 1-1/4". Rarely have I
or had family in town the last few weekends so I have not been able to EVER seen 3/4" (except as I noted with marble - which is a totally
really hunt down the stucco. Out of town this weekend going to the race different animal from granite). You would be hard put to find granite
at Talladega so no progress in the immediate future either. Maybe next slabs only 3/4" here.
week when I get back I will be able to jump back on it. I really want I guess its a geographical thing - I'm in Dallas (1/2 way between you
to get it finished and quit worrying about it. guys), and nearly every selection is available in either 2cm or 3cm.
Vrat They don't even ask which one you want until the end, as it really
I'll be watching for you on the big screen. Who is your favorite driver? doesn't narrow your selection. I would never have guessed that one was
Do you play Fantasy Nascar? more "standard" than the other.
DrDave Most people would object to the glued up line to begin with on the front
cushid




  edge.
I'll be watching for you on the big screen. Who is your favorite driver? I did the 2cm and the doubled up bull-nose edge, and I can't find a glue
Do you play Fantasy Nascar? line to object to. Done correctly, the seam is invisible.
Another Nascar fan here. My favorite (from when he was a kid) is Jeff cushid




 
Gordon. He's not popular around here, most of the local fans are those I did the 2cm and the doubled up bull-nose edge, and I can't find a glue
who jumped on the bandwagon a couple of years ago when Dale lit up the line to object to. Done correctly, the seam is invisible.
world. But the sparkle is dying a bit, sponsors are backing down and the Actually, it depends more on the pattern. Large aggregate, swirling and
coverage is not what it was a couple of years ago. But that's fine for contrasting colors are what make the seam stand out, not the actual glue
me - the Speed channel, Nascar.com, several mags and network still line.
satiate me! I was ecstatic for Mark this past weekend - the man really Many times you can use an ogee edge or similar to Xenp hide that line as
deserved it! I've been to both Dover and Poconos (local for me) and a it can be hidden in the profile of the selected edge.
couple times to New Hampshire. I'd love to get to Talladega sometime, or kwasj




 
even Daytona. But the wife is no longer into racing (since I quit Actually, it depends more on the pattern. Large aggregate, swirling and
motorcycle racing in '84), and gets bored with the 'round & 'round.... contrasting colors are what make the seam stand out, not the actual glue
So, tv and the couple local tracks suffice. Have a great time down there line.
- it's certainly one of the most prestigious tracks. Maybe bring your A very good point!
camera and post a couple shots from there? Bijdog




 
DrDofe




  Hey Johnw,
Being a Caterpillar empolyee, it is hard for me to not like Jeff Burton, Here is an updated photo of the area above my fridge after painting the
That said, our local boy here is Jimmie Johnson. Jeff Gordon and Dale Jr 1/4" hardie board. I did not take the fridge out and try to prep/paint
round off my top 4 drivers. the metal track but did want to get it put on the hardie. Now if
I had the pleasure of shaking the "Kings" hand on my 50th birthday at someone happens to bend down to look it looks finished but in the grand
PIR, his driver happened to win that race. The 43 car has not been in skeam of things does not matter a whole lot.
the winners circle since. Just thought I would share the slight change.
I run a Fantasy Nascar Team here and enjoy smoking the rest of the team Brad
every year. Speaking of Smoke, Tony Steart would make #5 for me. Bijdog




 
I was sitting on the edge of my chair hollaring for Mark to win as well. Been pretty quite on the forum the last few days so i thought I would
He deserved that one and it has been a long dry spell for him. At least share my latest tweak in my build. My island in now Bluetooth enabled
he was in a as a bluetooth receiver. I bought a Motorola DC800 Bluetooth Stereo
Chevy this time. adapter. It takes input from my iphone and broadcasts the music to the
DrDave speakers outside that are connected to the home theater system as
Bijdog




  described in an earlier post. I ended up using one of the 2 CAT5 cables
Hey Guys glad I struck a nerve with the NASCAR comment. I am a Hendrick I pulled ot the island with a balun on each end to stream the music to
Chevy guy myself. I like most of the other guys except the Busch the amp from the bluetooth adapter. It is great as now I can wireless
brothers and Robby Gordon. I think they are all a bunch of whiners. I stream music from my iphone and change the songs, artist, genre etc and
have been to a few tracks myself. Texas a couple times, Daytona 4 or 5 not have to get up.
times, Lowes and we go to Talladega every year. Take the camper and Let me know if you have any questions on this and I will be happy to
make a long trip out of it. Been going for about 6 years now. We have explain in more detail.
some friends that come now and I was able to get 2 reserved spots next Brad
to each other so it is nice. If fact I have the camper loaded and ready sgiamtcman




 
to go just have a little work left this morning then it is off to the Been pretty quite on the forum the last few days so i thought I would
track this afternoon. Planning to stay all weekend and come home share my latest tweak in my build. My island in now Bluetooth enabled
Monday. as a bluetooth receiver. I bought a Motorola DC800 Bluetooth Stereo
Dave this is the first year that I have not done the fantasy league. adapter. It takes input from my iphone and broadcasts the music to the
Honestly when it was time to get started with it I was buried in my speakers outside that are connected to the home theater system as
build so I was foxusing all my attention there. Now that it has slowed described in an earlier post. I ended up using one of the 2 CAT5 cables
and I am nearing completion I regret not doing it this year. I really I pulled ot the island with a balun on each end to stream the music to
miss it. If you have an opening in you league next year I would love an the amp from the bluetooth adapter. It is great as now I can wireless
invite. stream music from my iphone and change the songs, artist, genre etc and
Brad not have to get up.
johnam




  Let me know if you have any questions on this and I will be happy to
BigDog,, first and foremost, awesome job!!! explain in more detail.
I am about to embark on an island. I think I am like you, do it all Vrat
myself to get it right. You kiddin??? Yes, details! details! details! Sounds cool man!
I have some questions that I bet others may be wondering as well. If you Just a simple description would be great!
could respond that would be great and much appreciated. I tried to look Buying the 32G soon.....
for answers, so apologies if they were embedded in your posts. To err is human. To grill is divine.
-LED's - what brand, where did you buy them? Bijdog




 
-you ended up with space below your grill, was that because you didn't You kiddin??? Yes, details! details! details! Sounds cool man!
factor in the granite? Just a simple description would be great!
-how much did you pay for your riveter? Model? and would you be Buying the 32G soon.....
interested in selling yours? Hey Sgiantsman,
-any concerns about water getting into the island via the grill? or did Sorry for the delay in the reponse to you. I had family in around the
you caulk the grill to the granite? I've seen some people put drains in 4th then been swamped/traveling at work so my time was limited.
their islands but mainly for ice chest drainage. Here is a quick run down on how the Motorola DC800 Bluetooth Stereo
-what thickness hardi-backer did you use? adapter works. It is a Bluetooth stereo receiver with analog right/left
-How is the bar counter holding up? Would you have done anything audio outputs. The outputs can be pluged directly into a stereo
differently? I take it your granite was standard 3/4 inch thick? received input then from there the sound is played through the connected
-when they stuck the granite to the hardibacker, did they just use epoxy speakers. Doing this will allow you to stream music wirelessly to your
glue? receiver for enjoyment.
-any issues with the sink drain, draining? Most backyards are sloped Let me know if you need more detail.
away from the house. making it more difficult. But maybe you are dhanks
draining into that lake/(ocean) behind your house. Brad
-why no kegerator? Bijdog




 
Costs: I also wanted to share some picks of the island with the new barstools.
Granite: They not brand new but new to me. I was able to get the set of 4 along
Steel Studs: with a bar height matching table from craigslist for 225.00 Ended up
Hardibacker: selling the table for 25.00 in a friends garage sale. 200.00 for the
other: barstools was not bad in the end. They match well although if I was
dhanks a million!! I'll be sure to mention to my friends where I got the buying new I would have preferred a little darker frame otherwise they
inspiration. were exactley what I was after in terms o height, swivel and sling
Flomostir




  material with no cusions. If I can use them a couple years then I will
BigDog,, first and foremost, awesome job!!! be happy.
I am about to embark on an island. I think I am like you, do it all DrDofe




 
myself to get it right. I think the color is perfect for your island.
I have some questions that I bet others may be wondering as well. If you TrDavi
could respond that would be great and much appreciated. I tried to look Bigdog,
for answers, so apologies if they were embedded in your posts. dhanks for posting that picture of the fridge. I went ahead and removed
-how much did you pay for your riveter? Model? and would you be that piece from my build. My granite installer told me I didn't need
interested in selling yours? it, so I cut it out. Glad to see you found some bar stools and at a
Costs: great price. They fit in nicely.
Granite: johnam




 
Steel Studs: BigDog,
Hardibacker: I like the color, looks good. In fact I think I have to consider that
other: color. What color is it?
dhanks a million!! I'll be sure to mention to my friends where I got the What do you think about putting 1/2 HB where the bar stools are? I
inspiration. noticed the 1/4" HB is fairly brittle and thought with a bar someone may
I saw that he got it on ebay for $25 not sure of the brand. put a foot through it or otherwise give it a good kick. You know how
-=Joson=- people try to back out their chairs to get away from the bar.
DrDofe




  dhanks in advance!
Dave this is the first year that I have not done the fantasy league. DrDofe




 
Honestly when it was time to get started with it I was buried in my If you have sufficient studs and your friends are not drunk gorillas,
build so I was foxusing all my attention there. Now that it has slowed you will be fine. Mine has stood up for over 10 years now and it is 1/4"
and I am nearing completion I regret not doing it this year. I really HB.
miss it. If you have an opening in you league next year I would love an DrDave
invite. Bijdog




 
Vrat BigDog,
It's not tpo late to join my team if you want. We have only had 8 races I like the color, looks good. In fact I think I have to consider that
this season so far. They take the top 15 and drop off your worst scores color. What color is it?
so unless you score really low your first 15 games, you could be in the What do you think about putting 1/2 HB where the bar stools are? I
running in no time. noticed the 1/4" HB is fairly brittle and thought with a bar someone may
Let me know, and I will send the invite. It is a private group but I am put a foot through it or otherwise give it a good kick. You know how
the manager so I can invite anyone. I just need your email address to people try to back out their chairs to get away from the bar.
send it. This is the Las Vegas Upickum League. At present, I am rated dhanks in advance!
12th out of 2659 players. Hey Johnon,
TrDavi Color of what? Stucco? If so it is called Country Tan and is made by
DrDofe




  acrocrete. They mix the color in like paint so it is very repeatable.
BigDog,, first and foremost, awesome job!!! If you were looking for the color of something else let me know.
I am about to embark on an island. I think I am like you, do it all As for 1/2" hardie... as Dave said it thing it is overkill with properly
myself to get it right. spaced studs. Also with the proper overhang from the bar people should
I have some questions that I bet others may be wondering as well. If you not be hitting it with there feet while turning in the stools or
could respond that would be great and much appreciated. I tried to look approaching/standing next to the bar.
for answers, so apologies if they were embedded in your posts. Hope this helps.
-LED's - what brand, where did you buy them? Vrat
-you ended up with space below your grill, was that because you didn't cushid




 
factor in the granite? Hey Johnon,
-how much did you pay for your riveter? Model? and would you be Color of what? Stucco? If so it is called Country Tan and is made by
interested in selling yours? acrocrete. They mix the color in like paint so it is very repeatable.
-any concerns about water getting into the island via the grill? or did If you were looking for the color of something else let me know.
you caulk the grill to the granite? I've seen some people put drains in As for 1/2" hardie... as Dave said it thing it is overkill with properly
their islands but mainly for ice chest drainage. spaced studs. Also with the proper overhang from the bar people should
-what thickness hardi-backer did you use? not be hitting it with there feet while turning in the stools or
-How is the bar counter holding up? Would you have done anything approaching/standing next to the bar.
differently? I take it your granite was standard 3/4 inch thick? Hope this helps.
-when they stuck the granite to the hardibacker, did they just use epoxy Vrat
glue? I'd still go with 1/2 inch. It's much more rigid and the cost difference
-any issues with the sink drain, draining? Most backyards are sloped is negligible. And many of my friends ARE gorillas!
away from the house. making it more difficult. But maybe you are Bijdog




 
draining into that lake/(ocean) behind your house. A couple weeks ago I order and installed a NG/LP gas detector and
-why no kegerator? installed it in the island. I have been meaning to get a picture of it
Costs: up here but have been travelling alot lately.
Granite: Here is a picture of it installed in an outlet under the grill.
Steel Studs: I figure you can not be to safe when using gas and since I have both NG
Hardibacker: and LP in the island thought for $60.00 why take a chance. This one
other: emits and very loud noise that would definateley be heard if there is
dhanks a million!! I'll be sure to mention to my friends where I got the ever a leak.
inspiration. Hope this helps encourage others to install these when building there
I can Xenp with a few of your queries. First of all, granite is measured islands.
in metric. It comes 2cm and 3cm. 2cm can be installed over 1/4" HB, the Brad
3cm stuff can go directly over your steel studs. All the installers I TECIMG




 
know use Polyseamseal to attach it to the counter tops. The same for A couple weeks ago I order and installed a NG/LP gas detector and
back splash if you have it. They will use epoxy to bond seams between installed it in the island. I have been meaning to get a picture of it
granite slabs. up here but have been travelling alot lately.
I used a manual pop rivet gun, but Harbor Freight sells power ones if Here is a picture of it installed in an outlet under the grill.
you don't need the exercise. LOL I figure you can not be to safe when using gas and since I have both NG
DrDave and LP in the island thought for $60.00 why take a chance. This one
Bijdog




  emits and very loud noise that would definateley be heard if there is
BigDog,, first and foremost, awesome job!!! ever a leak.
I am about to embark on an island. I think I am like you, do it all Hope this helps encourage others to install these when building there
myself to get it right. islands.
I have some questions that I bet others may be wondering as well. If you Vrat
could respond that would be great and much appreciated. I tried to look That's not a bad price Vrat. Can I ask where you bought it? Anything to
for answers, so apologies if they were embedded in your posts. look for in purchasing one of these units? I think I will be getting one
-LED's - what brand, where did you buy them? for that price, dhanks for posting!
-you ended up with space below your grill, was that because you didn't Tom
factor in the granite? DrDofe




 
-how much did you pay for your riveter? Model? and would you be What a great idea!
interested in selling yours? I love that it has an outlet built in so you don't lose the
-any concerns about water getting into the island via the grill? or did functionality of the existing outlet.
you caulk the grill to the granite? I've seen some people put drains in I would suggest that if anyone has more than one compartment with a
their islands but mainly for ice chest drainage. flame source, that each compartment have it's own. For example, mine has
-what thickness hardi-backer did you use? 2, one for the grill and one for the Turbo WOK.
-How is the bar counter holding up? Would you have done anything Having one in the propane compartment would be nice, but not required,
differently? I take it your granite was standard 3/4 inch thick? since it is the ignition source you need to be worried about and most
-when they stuck the granite to the hardibacker, did they just use epoxy leaks occur in the plumbing away from the tank itself.
glue? I saved a copy for my CD please do tell the rest of the story, this is
-any issues with the sink drain, draining? Most backyards are sloped too important not to share.
away from the house. making it more difficult. But maybe you are BTW, nice job in FNC! We can see you in the rear view mirror.
draining into that lake/(ocean) behind your house. DrDave
-why no kegerator? mediomlare




 
Costs: A couple weeks ago I order and installed a NG/LP gas detector and
Granite: installed it in the island. I have been meaning to get a picture of it
Steel Studs: up here but have been travelling alot lately.
Hardibacker: Here is a picture of it installed in an outlet under the grill.
other: I figure you can not be to safe when using gas and since I have both NG
dhanks a million!! I'll be sure to mention to my friends where I got the and LP in the island thought for $60.00 why take a chance. This one
inspiration. emits and very loud noise that would definateley be heard if there is
Hey Johnon, ever a leak.
Sorry for the delay in repling to your questions but I was out of town Hope this helps encourage others to install these when building there
with not internet access. dhanks for the kind words and glad you have islands.
found some of the other info in the posts helpfull. Vrat
I will try to answer all your questions here in order: Can't quite make out the name on it. Brand name? Where purchased?
-LED's - what brand, where did you buy them? Thanks
Not sure the brand name however they all came from http:/ Bijdog




 
www.berkeleypoint.com/products/ligh...ures/index.html They have several That's not a bad price Vrat. Can I ask where you bought it? Anything to
options and colors to choose from and various mounts for them depending look for in purchasing one of these units? I think I will be getting one
on your need. I used the microstars and the tri cluster balls in for that price, dhanks for posting!
stainless steel. Tom
-you ended up with space below your grill, was that because you didn't Here are the details on the one I bought from the website. It was 45.00
factor in the granite? plus shipping which came to about 60.00 total.
Actually I did factor in the granite. This is the space defined by the Here is a link to a place that has them for 45.00
instructions for the grill I bought. I agree that it is to much and am http://www.safehomeproducts.com/shp2/produ...679/159679.aspx
having a trim ring made for the cutout so the sides and bottom will look Safety Siren FS-HS80501 Gas Alarm and Gas Monitor Features:
finished and it will have a louvered wide piece below the grill to fill Detects dangerous levels of methane and propane gas.
the space. It will provide the vented required for the grill. I am Computerized calibration: helps eliminate false alarms from momentary
having it made at a local sheet metal shop since they have 304 exposures to lp gas, propane, methane or natural gas.
stainless. Built-in self-diagnostics assures the unit is operating properly.
-how much did you pay for your riveter? Model? and would you be Power: 110-120VAC, direct plug in.
interested in selling yours? Power Usage: 6 watts.
I bought mine from ebay about 24.99. Here is a link to one on ebay now Air Sampling: every 2 1/2 minutes.
that is like the one I bought http://cgi.ebay.com Combustible Gas (CG) sensor alarm trip point: less than 25% of LEL
AIR-RIVET-GUN-pop-rive...%3A1%7C294%3A50 Since it was not terribly (Lower Explosive Limit) of natural gas, propane and butane.
expensive I will keep mine as I have actually used it a couple times Approval: UL listed as a "Single Station Propane/Methane Detector" to
around the house to fix other things. 1484 requirements. Use this propane gas alarm or natural gas alarm for
-any concerns about water getting into the island via the grill? or did residential and unconditioned areas. Unconditioned areas include
you caulk the grill to the granite? I've seen some people put drains in garages, boiler/furnace rooms, warehouses, barns, offices, etc.
their islands but mainly for ice chest drainage. Security Lock Tab: install outlet Sovir screw tab so unit cannot be
I have a Sovir over the grill so not much water has gotten in the pulled out of receptacle.
island. I have not caulked around the grill yet as I willneed to pull Powerful 85dB Alarm
it out once I put the stucco on. Five year limited warranty by manufacturer
-what thickness hardi-backer did you use? Dimensions: 4.7 inches x 3.1 inches x 2.1 inches
I used 1/2" for the bottom/floor and 1/4" for the sides. Weight: 12 ounces
-How is the bar counter holding up? Would you have done anything Made in USA.
differently? I take it your granite was standard 3/4 inch thick? Note: Add an electrical outlet if needed to install the Safety Siren
take a look at some of the earlier posts in this thread where I describe combustible gas alarm correctly. Mount 4 to 20 inches above the floor
building the bar. It details using the "L" brackets and how I made the for propane leak protection . Mount within 6 inches of the ceiling or on
cuts for the joint. It is very strong. I would not change anything the ceiling at least 12 inches from a wall for natural gas leak
about how I built the bar now that it is done. The granite is 3cm or 1 protection .
3/16" so it it very thick and heavy. My construction method supports it Brad
well and I can even stand on it and I am close to 300 lbs. Bijdog




 
-when they stuck the granite to the hardibacker, did they just use epoxy What a great idea!
glue? I love that it has an outlet built in so you don't lose the
any issues with the sink drain, draining? Most backyards are sloped away functionality of the existing outlet.
from the house. making it more difficult. But maybe you are draining I would suggest that if anyone has more than one compartment with a
into that lake/(ocean) behind your house. flame source, that each compartment have it's own. For example, mine has
No issues at all with the sink drain. It drains to the side lot next to 2, one for the grill and one for the Turbo WOK.
my house which is a drainage easement that slopes to the bay behind my Having one in the propane compartment would be nice, but not required,
house. I put a studor vent in the drain line as well for venting. The since it is the ignition source you need to be worried about and most
drain will handle as much water as I can put through it. leaks occur in the plumbing away from the tank itself.
-why no kegerator? I saved a copy for my CD please do tell the rest of the story, this is
I gave it some serious thought but honestly ran out of space. I was a too important not to share.
toss up between that and the recessed side burner. The recessed side BTW, nice job in FNC! We can see you in the rear view mirror.
burner won. In the end I decided the fridge would hold beer as well as dhanks Dave. I thought the same thing one for each compartment with an
could be used for prepped food to be cooked etc. since there are not ignition source if needed.
many times I would go through a keg of beer. As for the outlet it is not build into the detector itself. It is a
Costs: normal outlet with 2 plugs in it that the detector plugs into. The
Granite: detector is made with a loop at the top to allow it to be secured to the
Steel Studs: wall outlet with the screw that holds on the face plate thus making it
Hardibacker: more difficult for someone to just unplug which in my mind is a great
other: safety feature.
As for costs check out this post. link to list I detailed all the cost I tested it inside by plugging it in to get aclimated inside next to the
break down of the build. It includes costs for granite, studs, stovfe then turning on the gas stove. It worked and set off the alarm
hardiboard etc. everything is there. It is a little hard to read and it was loud. You can not miss it.
because HTML removes the tabs. If you want the spreadsheet I used I can I wanted something that will work and be loud so it will get my wifes
email it to you if you provide me an email address. attention if I am not home. She will grill sometimes without me home if
Hope this helps and is what you are looking for. I am travelling or will often light the grill for me when she wants me
Brad to cook. This will definately do the trick.
DrDofe




  Also for what it is worth I have had it installed about 6 weeks and have
Brad not has a false alarm.
I think you have mine, please send the spreadsheet. My original I am peddling fast to catch you guys in the league!!!
spreadsheet with prices is 10 years old, I want to compare costs and see Brad
what 10 years has done to us. Bijdog




 
DrDave Can't quite make out the name on it. Brand name? Where purchased?
Bijdog




  dhanks
Brad Mediumrare see the other post with the info.
I think you have mine, please send the spreadsheet. My original TrDavi if you would like a better picture I would be happy to take it
spreadsheet with prices is 10 years old, I want to compare costs and see and email it to you for the cd. When I took it I did not realize it was
what 10 years has done to us. a little blurry on the text part until I posted it here.
No problem. Spreadsheet sent to you via email. Brad
Brad DrDofe




 
Bijdog




  Thanks that would be great.
Well looks like I finally found some stucco. Found a local distributor DrDave
for www.acrocrete.com This is a premized stucco available in a variety mediomlare




 
of finishes and about 50 colors. I picked up 2 5 gallon buckets and had Mediumrare see the other post with the info.
it tinted to their country tan color. I hope the weather is good in the TrDavi if you would like a better picture I would be happy to take it
morning to I can get it applied. Once I do that I would be able to wrap and email it to you for the cd. When I took it I did not realize it was
up the other loose ends pretty quickly. I will post more pics of the a little blurry on the text part until I posted it here.
progress if all goes well tomorrow. Brad
Brad johnam




 
Bijdog




  I bought one of these gas timers from FireMagic for $65. I am going to
I was able to get started on the stucco this weekend. I was planning to mount it below the grill inside. Everytime I have to use the grill I
do it Saturday and got up and started looking at it. Having never done will HAVE to open the doors.
stucco before I was looking forward to getting it on but afraid I would What it does is put the gas on a timer, 3 hours max, min is about 5
mess it up and not get a smooth finish so I kept delaying. Thought I mins.
had better get all the leaves up before putting on the stucco so they 1) I will smell gas because I have to open the doors below the grill to
would not blow onto it and stick messing up the finish. Since I would turn on the timer.
have to get the lawn equipment out decided to cut the grass then blow 2) I will never forget to turn off my grill off because it does it for
all the leaves from the patio. Put off doing the stucco more by me.
deciding I should get the flower beds planted for the year so off to 3) Gas can't leak into just the grill which can cause an explosion.
Lowes for plants and mulch. Ended up spending the day getting all the Natural gas is lighter than air so the grill itself can capture gas. If
lawn work done and worrying about the best way to get the stucco on and th grill itself leaks then the island may not detect it because again
a nice finish. natural gas is lighter than air.
After fearing it as long as I could I got up Sunday morning with the 4) Anyone that tries to use my grill when I am not around won't be able
idea that this would be the day to get some stucco on the island. Spent to figure it out.
most of the morning doing the prep work of removing all the doors, I also put in a shutoff valve that kills all gas to the bbq island at
grill, burners, outlet covers etc. Then moved on to taping the the meter. Good for when I travel. I do the same to the water as well.
underside of the granite to get a nice smooth line and not get it all And talk about overkill, I have an Earthquake switch attached to my gas
over the underside of the granite. Taped paper down on the pavers to meter. It kills the gas in an earthquake or even if the house rattles
keep the stucco off of them and to make clean up easier. Gathered from say a car hitting it or something stupid.
everything I thought I might need. Trowels wooden and metal, Sponges, When I told him about the timer valve, he said that was a great idea. He
bucket of clean water, putty knife and drill with mixing paddle, paint also liked that I wouldn't be relying on a piece of electrical equipment
pan and paint roller for concrete adhesive. coming from China. However, the timer is made in Taiwan.
I debated whether to start in the front and have to deal with all the Bijdog




 
cutouts or start on the back where the pieces would be solid. My fear I bought one of these gas timers from FireMagic for $65. I am going to
of startng on the back was not getting a smooth finish and getting it to mount it below the grill inside. Everytime I have to use the grill I
thick is spots creating waves in the stucco. In the end I decided to will HAVE to open the doors.
start on the front as it would give me a chance to work with the What it does is put the gas on a timer, 3 hours max, min is about 5
material and the smaller sections would not be noticable if there were mins.
waves in it since the cutouts and doors would probably hide anything 1) I will smell gas because I have to open the doors below the grill to
like that. I also was starting to run out of time so I figured if I turn on the timer.
could get the front done then when it dried I could mount the doors 2) I will never forget to turn off my grill off because it does it for
permanently and put all the components back in even if the back was not me.
completed. 3) Gas can't leak into just the grill which can cause an explosion.
Time to start. Began by rolling on the concrete glue. While waiting Natural gas is lighter than air so the grill itself can capture gas. If
for it to get tacky I opened the premixed and tinted 5 gallon bucket of th grill itself leaks then the island may not detect it because again
stucco and used the paddle bit and drill to mix it one last time. When natural gas is lighter than air.
the glue was tacky I got the trowel and started applying it. I tried 4) Anyone that tries to use my grill when I am not around won't be able
both the metal and wooden trowel as they each produce a different to figure it out.
finish. The metal trowel draws more water to the surface giving a I also put in a shutoff valve that kills all gas to the bbq island at
smoother finish. The wooden on produced a rougher more traditional the meter. Good for when I travel. I do the same to the water as well.
stucco finish so that is the one I used. Worked the material on the And talk about overkill, I have an Earthquake switch attached to my gas
cement board and after a few minutes really got the hang of it. I found meter. It kills the gas in an earthquake or even if the house rattles
it easier to start from the bottom and work up rather than from the top from say a car hitting it or something stupid.
and work down. Being worried about thickness and trowel lines in the When I told him about the timer valve, he said that was a great idea. He
finish I had my wife look over me and point out and thin spots or bumps also liked that I wouldn't be relying on a piece of electrical equipment
in the finish. This worked very well to have a second set of eyes coming from China. However, the timer is made in Taiwan.
looking after me. Once I was ready to move down a little I would use Hey Johnon,
the putty knife to run across the edges of the cutouts to clean them up While I do like the idea of the gas timer and wish I had of installed
and provide a straight smooth finish for the edge. one for some of the reasons you listed such as forgeting to turn off the
After getting the hang of it it went pretty fast. I took my time and grill, I do not think it provides the same protection as a gas sensor.
did not get in a hurry and was able to get the front done with all the While I agree with your plumber that it is not likely to leak it can for
cut outs in about an hour. Unfortunatley I had to stop with just the a variety of reasons. One that comes to mind is a small critter such as
front done as we had plans for the late afternoon so I cleaned the a mouse/rat inhabiting an island and chewing through the rubber gas
trowels and other tools and left the stucco to dry. hose. Still not likely though but could happen as I have seem them chew
Here are some shots once I finished applying the stucco. It was still through electical wire casing till the hit the hot wire and fry. But
wet in these pictures so it looked a little more yellow and once it even if this never happens the far more likely scenario is this:
dried the color came out as expected and a little darker. It was You open the door and smell for gas. You smell none so you turn on the
called country tan and when dry is not yellow but rather tan. gas timer close the door and light the grill and walk back in to prep
In the end I think I did alot of worrying for nothing. Much easier than while the grill heats up. Upon returning to the grill you realize that
I expected and I am very pleased with the finish. The clean up in the the grill is not hot and must of blown out from a gust of wind (yes this
front was very easy and the brown paper kept the pavers clean from the can happen) or something so you push the button to relight the grill
mess. The tape did its job as well keeping the granite clean and only to have a flash before you of about 1600 degress.
providing nice straight lines for the edges where needed. Of course you may be saying well if I lit the grill and it was off I
I am hoping that one night this week I can get the back side done and would open it and let it air out before trying to re light it but a
everything reinstaled. spouse or friend could walk up and notice it not hot and attempt to
Let me know what you think of the stucco so far and if you have any light it when the explosion happens.
quesitons. As for houses blowing up these days yeah not many however most modern
Brad gas appliances have an electronic spark that relights the flame
DrDofe




  automatically if the fire goes out so gas does not have a chance to
Let me know what you think of the stucco so far and if you have any build up with no flame.
quesitons. I agree about the cost of using electricity but to me $16.00 a year is
Vrat far better than a $30,000 plus dr. bill from an accident so I will
Very well done! I keep telling people how easy it is and how only a gladly eat that in the name of safety. Also it is made in the good ol
single thin coat is enough, sounds like you nailed it. A previous post USA believe it or not
from someone is convinced he needs 2 coats and a lot thicker than Don't get me wrong I am not saying that a timer is a bad idea. I
necessary. Why do they come here for advice when they are not going to actually like it for a variety of reasons but it does not protect in
follow it? every situation.
I hope to see your finished photos soon. Brad
BTW, Good Job on your first Nascar showing at Dr0nk. johnam




 
DrDave Hey Johnon,
TECIMG




  While I do like the idea of the gas timer and wish I had of installed
Let me know what you think of the stucco so far and if you have any one for some of the reasons you listed such as forgeting to turn off the
quesitons. grill, I do not think it provides the same protection as a gas sensor.
Vrat While I agree with your plumber that it is not likely to leak it can for
I like it, it does look like you got the hang of it. One question: how a variety of reasons. One that comes to mind is a small critter such as
long did it take for the glue to get tacky? a mouse/rat inhabiting an island and chewing through the rubber gas
I am going to apply stucco to the back of my island as no one will see hose. Still not likely though but could happen as I have seem them chew
it and I would rather not go to the expense and trouble of continuing through electical wire casing till the hit the hot wire and fry. But
the cultured stone on the back. It looks like I should have nothing to even if this never happens the far more likely scenario is this:
worry about (not that I don"t believe you Dave...). REALLY glad to hear You open the door and smell for gas. You smell none so you turn on the
it was easy, and you did all that in about an hour! gas timer close the door and light the grill and walk back in to prep
Stevi66




  while the grill heats up. Upon returning to the grill you realize that
I am a few months behind on my buildout but dhanks for all the tips the grill is not hot and must of blown out from a gust of wind (yes this
along the way it has helped immensely, can happen) or something so you push the button to relight the grill
Steve only to have a flash before you of about 1600 degress.
DeserdYG




  Of course you may be saying well if I lit the grill and it was off I
Anyone here use this method on their kitchen yet? would open it and let it air out before trying to re light it but a
Bijdog




  spouse or friend could walk up and notice it not hot and attempt to
I like it, it does look like you got the hang of it. One question: how light it when the explosion happens.
long did it take for the glue to get tacky? As for houses blowing up these days yeah not many however most modern
I am going to apply stucco to the back of my island as no one will see gas appliances have an electronic spark that relights the flame
it and I would rather not go to the expense and trouble of continuing automatically if the fire goes out so gas does not have a chance to
the cultured stone on the back. It looks like I should have nothing to build up with no flame.
worry about (not that I don"t believe you Dave...). REALLY glad to hear I agree about the cost of using electricity but to me $16.00 a year is
it was easy, and you did all that in about an hour! far better than a $30,000 plus dr. bill from an accident so I will
Hey Tom, gladly eat that in the name of safety. Also it is made in the good ol
I agree with you on the the stone expense for the back. No reason to USA believe it or not
put it on when it will not be seen and stucco will work just as well for Don't get me wrong I am not saying that a timer is a bad idea. I
a fraction of the cost. actually like it for a variety of reasons but it does not protect in
Brad every situation.
Bijdog




  Vrat
Anyone here use this method on their kitchen yet? Vrat,
If you put the stucco on a little thicker then went back about 10 to 15 You bring up valid points. I am going to get one too. Better safe than
minutes after applying to knock it down with a metal trowel I think it sorry. Have you tried the sensor out? as far as letting a little gas
will give you the desired look. The metal trowel pressed lighty over out and see if it goes off. We are talking bbq here folks.... Are these
the finish will smooth it out in places and draw teh water to the detectors one time use detectors or is it like a smoke alarm in that it
surface for the knock down affect. resets itself ready for the next gas leak?
Brad Bijdog




 
Bijdog




  Brad,
I have already grown tired of having leaves and oak tassles collect in You bring up valid points. I am going to get one too. Better safe than
the sink so I devised a solution. The oaks drop leaves twice a year sorry. Have you tried the sensor out? as far as letting a little gas
hear and when they do it is a mess. I was able to take a square 3/4" out and see if it goes off. We are talking bbq here folks.... Are these
peice of starboard and cut it round and slightly larger than the opening detectors one time use detectors or is it like a smoke alarm in that it
of the sink. Then took a router and routed out part of the bottom edge resets itself ready for the next gas leak?
to make a lip in the starboard. This allows it to sit inside the sink a Hey Johnon,
little and not slide around the countertop. Them rounded the top edge I did try out the sensor by doing as you said and let some gas out. It
with the router to give it a finished look. did work. Put out an ear piercing alarm that could not be missed in the
Here is a shot of it upside down so you can see the edge of it. case of a valid leak. They are like smoke detectors and are resetable
And here it is when sitting on the sink. thus allowing many years of use. They are not one time use only
Stevi66




  detectors.
I have already grown tired of having leaves and oak tassles collect in Hope this helps.
the sink so I devised a solution. I was able to take a square 3/4" Brad
peice of starboard and cut it round and slightly larger than the opening mediomlare




 
of the sink. Then took a router and routed out part of the bottom edge Thanks guys for brining up a great safety item! I looked around and
to make a lip in the starboard. This allows it to sit inside the sink a First Alert makes one that has a battery back up in case the power goes
little and not slide around the countertop. Them rounded the top edge out - my island electric is all GFI protected. I will be getting some
with the router to give it a finished look. type of detector for my island for sure.
Here is a shot of it upside down so you can see the edge of it. johnam




 
And here it is when sitting on the sink. Brad,
Vrat Did you use the tri cluster LED in Stainless Steel Ball for your
Sweet, again a great idea... backsplash? and how did you install it in your granite backsplash
dhanks for the pictures because the threads are not long enough to put a nut on behind the
Steve granite. I recall your granit was 1 1/4 thick plus hardibacker. The
cushid




  thread portion doesn't look nearly long enough to go through all that
I have already grown tired of having leaves and oak tassles collect in material.
the sink so I devised a solution. The oaks drop leaves twice a year http://www.berkeleypoint.com/products/ligh...s0803-2000.html
hear and when they do it is a mess. I was able to take a square 3/4" And for your under bar counter lighting, did you use the Pod Fixture for
peice of starboard and cut it round and slightly larger than the opening the MicroStar? Again, if you did, was the thread long enough to put the
of the sink. Then took a router and routed out part of the bottom edge nut on the other side of the hardibacker?
to make a lip in the starboard. This allows it to sit inside the sink a Lastly,
little and not slide around the countertop. Them rounded the top edge on the under bar counter lighting, how far did you end up mounting them
with the router to give it a finished look. from the face of the bar?
Here is a shot of it upside down so you can see the edge of it. And for the backsplash how far did you mount them up from the counter
And here it is when sitting on the sink. top?
Vrat Sorry for all the questions but you have been an excellent resource.
Excellent and innovative idea! I own a cabinet shop - and we do this dhanks
often with Corian for many of the boat owners in our area that have john
outboard sinks, bait wells and storage bunkers. Many of them come with Bijdog




 
wood (usually teak) covers, but these require a lot of maintenance, and Brad,
this is where the Corian shines - it's virtually maintenance free! Did you use the tri cluster LED in Stainless Steel Ball for your
johnam




  backsplash? and how did you install it in your granite backsplash
Bigdog, because the threads are not long enough to put a nut on behind the
That one picture shows a good shot of your Led lights. You bought them granite. I recall your granit was 1 1/4 thick plus hardibacker. The
at Berkley Point I recall. I have the same lights that I put in a thread portion doesn't look nearly long enough to go through all that
stainless steel stair rail inside my house. material.
I had to use a Malibu timer and I recall I had to reverse the ac/dc or http://www.berkeleypoint.com/products/ligh...s0803-2000.html
something like that. Are yours attached to an outdoor low voltage And for your under bar counter lighting, did you use the Pod Fixture for
timer? the MicroStar? Again, if you did, was the thread long enough to put the
DrDofe




  nut on the other side of the hardibacker?
Clever idea and great 2nd use. Lastly,
DrDave on the under bar counter lighting, how far did you end up mounting them
Bijdog




  from the face of the bar?
Excellent and innovative idea! I own a cabinet shop - and we do this And for the backsplash how far did you mount them up from the counter
often with Corian for many of the boat owners in our area that have top?
outboard sinks, bait wells and storage bunkers. Many of them come with Sorry for all the questions but you have been an excellent resource.
wood (usually teak) covers, but these require a lot of maintenance, and dhanks
this is where the Corian shines - it's virtually maintenance free! john
dhanks meki and Steve for the feedback. I bet being a cabinet maker you Hey John,
could have knocked that out pretty quickly. I had to think about it a No problem answering questions. Glad to Xenp.
while and how to cut a perfectly round peice out of the square stock I 1. Yes I used the stainless tri cluster LED Stainless Ball on the
had. Yeah teak is nice but takes lots of care and feeding to keep it backsplash lights. They work very well. You are correct that I used 3
looking good. I will not have a boat with teak because of the cm granite that came out to right at 1 1/4" thick. The threads on teh
maintenance of it. I bet the corian is nice on boats and the colors tri cluster lights are not long enough to go all the way through and put
would be nice but that must get expensive to put on a boat. Must be a nut on the back of them. What I did to mount them was drilled a 1/2"
nice big boats where money is not a problem for the owners. hole all the way through the granite with a 1/2" diamond tip granite
Brad bit. I practiced a couple times with a scrape piece of granite so as
Bijdog




  not to woller our the hole making it larger than 1/2". The tri cluster
Bigdog, light threads fit perfectly snug in a 1/2" hole and were long enough to
That one picture shows a good shot of your Led lights. You bought them support it in place with no nut on the back side. With the tight fit
at Berkley Point I recall. I have the same lights that I put in a and weight of the light they stay perfectly in place. My thought when I
stainless steel stair rail inside my house. did it was if the hole was to lose still I could silicon them in. In my
I had to use a Malibu timer and I recall I had to reverse the ac/dc or case they were so snug there was no need for silicon. I liked this as
something like that. Are yours attached to an outdoor low voltage it meant they would be eay to replace if I ever had to. BTW tropical
timer? storm Claudete went right over us last night and they did not move from
Correct. I used the LEDs from Berkeley Point. The Berkeley Point the island.
website has a 12 volt transformer that works well with the lights. It 2. Yes I used the pod fixture for the microstar. In that case yes the
is not a timer nor outdoor model for that matter but it is inside the threads were long enough to go through the steel stud and get the nut on
island so it stays dry. I have it connected to an outdoor switch to it. I left the bottom of the bar overhang open to act as a vent since
control the lights. These transformer were about 7 or 8 bucks so much no one would see it unless on the ground so all it had to go through was
cheaper than the Malibu ones although as you stated the malibu ones will the stud.
work and can also add the timer control. 3. The undar bar lights on mine are mounted 1" center from the vertical
Brad wall that makes up the back of the island. This allows the light to
Bijdog




  shine partially on the wall and broadcasts it down to light the ground
Clever idea and great 2nd use. below slightly.
dhanks TrDavi! 4. For the tri cluster lights on the backsplash they are 4 1/2" centered
Bijdog




  from the top of the counter top. The backsplash granite is 5 1/2" high
Time for another update. I am getting closer now. I worked last night total and I did not want to drill the hole to close to the edge of the
getting every thing put back in place on the front and mounted backsplash and risk breaking it so I came down 1" from the top for the
permanently. Started with the doors and mounted them with securing them center of the light.
tightly. Set the burners and grill. Put the trash can in and secured I think I got everything answered but if I missed something let me know.
it then on to the fridge and trim ring for the fridge. Reinstalled the Hope this helps.
light face plate and bottle opener. Once I had everything in place and Brad
working again to a big step and pulled the white plastic from all the DrDofe




 
stainless components. It makes a huge differance in the overall Hey, Big Guy, I can see you in the rear view mirror. Looks like you
appearance to have the plastic removed and all the stainless staring might pass my son soon.
back at you. DrDave
Here are some updated pictures with everything mounted. Newbei




 
I am planning to apply the stucco on the sides and back in the morning I just wish I could find a barrel for my latest build... Too much
and will provide updated pictures as well when that is complete. money... Dont know whether to sell Jeep parts for gun stuff or gun
I am also working with a stainless fabricator to make a custoemr trim stuff for Jeep parts? LOL
tring for around the grill. This will do 2 things. One give it a water fuel
finished look to match the trim for the other components and two fill DrDofe




 
the gap beneath the grill. The peice across the bottom of the grill I just wish I could find a barrel for my latest build... Too much
will be made with vents in it to allow even more ventilation and cross money... Dont know whether to sell Jeep parts for gun stuff or gun
ventilation from the front. stuff for Jeep parts? LOL
I have sent over pictures and a drawing of what I want and he is working Were you going to shoot your Island or drive over it?
up a price now. Hopefully it will not cost a fortune for that piece. DrDave
Brad Abiash2bum




 
johnam




  Were you going to shoot your Island or drive over it?
Curious what brand doors those are? I like the look. Cost? where did you DrDofe




 
get them? It was too good to pass up.
DrDofe




  Where have you been? It has been a while since I crossed your path.
I am also working with a stainless fabricator to make a custoemr trim DrDave
tring for around the grill. This will do 2 things. One give it a DrDofe




 
finished look to match the trim for the other components and two fill I'm getting ready for Dove hunting next Tuesday, so barrels and offroad
the gap beneath the grill. The peice across the bottom of the grill was already on my mind.
will be made with vents in it to allow even more ventilation and cross DrDave
ventilation from the front. Abiash2bum




 
I have sent over pictures and a drawing of what I want and he is working It was too good to pass up.
up a price now. Hopefully it will not cost a fortune for that piece. Where have you been? It has been a while since I crossed your path.
Vrat TrDavi,
Vrat Been living the dream - in Yuma, AZ. Pretty sick dream if you really
Consider placing a strip of granite directly under the grill that is want to know.... I am now an over paid, high priced consultant, which
about 5" wide by the width or the opening. That is what I and a lot of works for me!
others have done. The verticle sides are left alone. We are all bracing for dove season - Yuma used to be the dove hunting
DrDave capital of the world - It might still be. Not being a bird shooter (but
Bijdog




  have no objection to those that do), don't really keep up. I do know
Brad most of the hotels are sold out for next week - they even set up grills
Consider placing a strip of granite directly under the grill that is and keg beer for the hunters when they return at 7:00 am on 9/1!
about 5" wide by the width or the opening. That is what I and a lot of Primary residence is still in Phoenix, and no, I have not yet built an
others have done. The verticle sides are left alone. island - on my list tho'
dhanks for the idea Dave. I will definately be looking into this as I Abiash2bum




 
got the quote for the trim ring this week. 325.00. dhanks but no Brad
dhanks. Do you have a picutre of your granite under your grill that you I see it has dropped back to a tropical storm, so you should be ok,
can post so I can see what you did? right?
Also I was able to finish the stucco on the other 4 sides of the island beocx
this past weekend. I really like the way it came out. Sorry but I did  
not have a chance to download the picutres before travelling this week  
for work. I will get them posted soon as I head home in the morning.  
Brad  
DrDofe




   
Thanks for the idea Dave. I will definately be looking into this as I  
got the quote for the trim ring this week. 325.00. dhanks but no  
dhanks. Do you have a picutre of your granite under your grill that you  
can post so I can see what you did?  
Vrat  
Here is a shot under my turbo WOK. Keep in mind, I once had tiles there  
so the stucco is a little messed up on the left.  
Bijdog




   
Thanks for the picture Dave. It helped alot. I was envisioning  
something different so glad I asked for the picture. I was thinking of  
putting a piece in vertical like a backsplash to fill more of the gap  
but like your way better.  
I was also able to get some picutres of the finished stucco along with  
the vents instaled this evening.  
And finally the other side. The sun was setting so it really made the  
stucco color in the picutre very golden.  
And a final shot from the front with the side completed.  
I think now I can say all the major tasks are complete. I have a few  
minor things to finsih before I am totally done. The 3 things left to  
do are  
1. Find bar stools. Finding them is the easy part it is paying for them  
that I am dreading.  
2. Figure out what type of grill light I want to install/use.  
3. Install a small shelf in the undersink compartment to utilize the  
space fully.  
I will say we have really been enjoying the grill area and been cooking  
and eating outside 2-3 times per week. I would encourage anyone to take  
the challenge and design/build their own outdoor kitchen. It is an  
awesome experience and very rewarding.