Whether you covet a grill and food-prep station on wheels or a built-in BBQ island with fridge and bar seating, don't hit the home center before reading TOH's expert guide to creating a first-rate backyard cook spot
Cultured-stone veneer Why: Mortared to a wood, concrete-block, or precast-concrete frame, it looks like and lasts as long as natural stone but is simpler to DIY because it's lightweight and easy to cut. Price: $5 to $25 per square foot uninstalled
Brick Why: Affordable and a cinch to maintain. Requires careful prep, and you may have to cut bricks to fit. But if you've got basic masonry skills, it's a good weekend project. Price: $3 to $6 per square foot uninstalled
Stucco Why: Troweled onto a wood, concrete-block, or precast-concrete frame, it's a hard-wearing and flameproof finish that comes in colors. Price: $4 to $9 per square foot uninstalled
From style to tile, find tons of inspirational photos, ideas, and how-tos for brand-new rooms, quick upgrades, and big and small fixes, plus special offers.
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