Affordable Outdoor Bar Notions
Creating an outdoor bar on a budget requires careful planning and creativity. Considering key factors like space, weather protection, noise, and licensing early on will ensure your affordable backyard bar idea goes smoothly from concept to enjoyment.
Assess Available Space
Take measurements of your outdoor area to determine the potential bar size and layout. An intimate yet functional 5 ft bar can easily suit smaller patios or decks. Larger yards may accommodate a 10-15 ft spread. If space is limited, think vertical with tiered, angled, or curved designs to maximize real estate. A folding bar is also great for compact storage when not in use.
Mind Weather and Temperature
An outdoor bar demands durable, waterproof materials that withstand seasonal weather and year-round temperature fluctuations. Choose wood finishes with protective stains, moisture-resistant metals like galvanized steel, and sturdy waterproof coverings. Incorporate awnings, umbrellas, or overhangs to shield the bar and patrons from direct sun, rain, and other elements.
Consider Noise and Other Logistics
Outdoor bars bring fun and cheers, but also increased noise levels. Be considerate of neighbors, property lines, and noise ordinances when selecting the location. Check your city regulations regarding any permits required for operating an outdoor home bar. Deter burglars and sneakily curious wildlife by incorporating lighting, alarms, and storage solutions into the bar's design.
Select Ideal Outdoor Location for Affordable Backyard Bar
Consider a Patio, Deck, or Open Backyard
Patios and decks conveniently adjoin the home for easy access to electricity, plumbing, and supplies. The existing hardscape also simplifies installation. Alternatively, cleared green space allows for a private bar hideaway surrounded by nature. Mind slope and drainage to keep the foundation level.
Ensure Sufficient Space and Airflow
Allow ample room not only for the physical bar, but for bartenders to easily maneuver and patrons to gather. At least 10-15 ft behind the bar provides sufficient space. An open-air concept promotes airflow which helps manage smells, smoke, and other odors that can accumulate.
Choose Budget-Friendly Outdoor Bar Materials
Repurposed Wood Pallets
Wood pallets are inexpensive, easy to repurpose, and have an on-trend industrial vibe. Screw pallets together to form the bar frame and trim with 2x4s. Waterproof the wood with polyurethane or spar varnish. Add shelves, metal mesh, or corrugated tin to the sides for hanging glassware and decor.
Concrete Blocks
Concrete blocks stacked and cemented make an incredibly sturdy, weather-resistant base for an outdoor bar. Level sand or gravel, lay blocks according to your design, fill cores with concrete mix, then adhere with exterior construction adhesive. Finish with wood or tile countertops.
Used Lumber
Salvaged barn wood, fencing planks, construction scraps, and reused timber add rustic character at a fraction of the price. Sand, seal, or stain the patinated wood for weather protection. Eclectic mixes of unfinished, natural, and vividly-painted wood suit a fun, casual vibe.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel offers superior strength, durability, weather resistance, and an industrial edge. Use galvanized sheets, pipes, barrels, and containers as-is or cut, weld, and fasten together for a custom frame. Pair with wood or concrete for the countertop.
Design Practical Affordable Outdoor Bar Plans
Keep it Simple with Rectangular Shape
A basic rectangular structure simplifies construction and allows maximum usable counter space. For a 12 ft bar, frame walls using 2x4s or 2x6s secured with galvanized screws. Overhangs, notches, shelves, and storage nooks can be incorporated without complicating the basic shape.
Allow Space for Storage and Supplies
Designate areas to tuck away bar tools, glassware, garnishes, ice, kegs, and other essential items. Custom cabinets with doors allow discreet storage underneath. For easy access, use open shelving, pegboards, or screens along the sides or back. Ensure storage spots stay shaded and dry.
Include Overhang for Weather Protection
An angled roof or overhang shields patrons and bartenders from rain and sun while serving. Opt for an attached cover that extends 3-4 feet out from the bar or choose a standalone umbrella setup. Waterproof outdoor fabrics like canvas work well. Incorporate lighting underneath for visibility.
Add Lighting and Electrical Outlets
Hardwire electrical outlets to power blenders, LED lighting, music, and more. Use exterior-rated outlets, wiring, and fixtures. For ambiance, string Edison bulbs, lanterns, or fairy lights overhead and along the bar's edges. Consider solar power for off-grid setups.
Build Inexpensive Outdoor Bar Counter
Sturdy Frame from Low-Cost Materials
Construct a strong base from weather-resistant, budget-friendly materials like treated lumber, galvanized pipe, concrete blocks, repurposed pallets or barn wood. Use an adjoining wall for extra stability. Level gravel or sand foundations prevent sinking and stabilize uneven terrain.
Waterproof and Stain-Resistant Countertop
Choose durable, outdoor-friendly countertop materials that withstand spills and moisture. Concrete, stone, tile, stainless steel, and untreated wood sealed with polyurethane or epoxy resin make excellent choices. Save money by using remnant pieces, scrap metals, or DIY concrete treatments.
Leave Gap for Drainage
Elevate the countertop slightly to allow water runoff and discourage sitting puddles. A 1" gap between the counter and frame boosts airflow and drainage underneath. Use rustproof metal legs or naturally rot-resistant cedar or redwood blocks to elevate.
Outfit Budget Backyard Bar on the Cheap
Secondhand Bar Stools and Chairs
Search thrift stores, garage sales, and online listings for used bar stools, tables, ottomans, and chairs for inexpensive guest seating. Upcycle pieces with a fresh coat of paint, new cushions, or repurposed tablecloths.
Discount Glassware and Accessories
Stock your bar with budget drinkware like tumblers, mason jars, and reusable plastic cups from dollar stores, restaurant supply shops, flea markets, and secondhand shops.Purchase garnishes, bar tools, beverage coolers, and decor at discount retailers, on sale, or online.
Used Mini Fridge and Sinks
A secondhand mini fridge or beverage cooler keeps drinks properly chilled without breaking your budget. Install an old stainless, galvanized, or enameled metal sink found at a salvage store or online for handy drink mixing. Ensure good drainage.
Add Budget-Savvy Decorative Touches
String Lighting for Ambiance
Cast a magical glow over your space with string lights woven overhead, hung from trees, or wrapped around poles. Opt for outdoor-rated strand lighting which is durable and weather-resistant. Use clear bulbs, colored lenses, or Edison style for aesthetics.
Repurposed Decor Like Old Signs
Display vintage finds that showcase character and nostalgia. Pallet wood hand-painted with the bar's name, an old neon sign restored to working order, a used license plate as wall art, and galvanized buckets or watering cans topped with plants make great additions.