Outdoor Bar

[Will1802]

Hey All,
I'm helping a friend of mine build an outdoor bar. We've got the frame and sides figured out but we're running into some issues with the bar top. It will be a permanent fixture in the back yard with no roof. I'm looking for some suggestions on the best wood to use to hold up to the elements. Also, our other concern is with water pooling on the top when it rains. Besides keeping it covered, what would be the best thing to keep that from happening? We had two thoughts on that: 1. Simply grade the top slightly. 2. Use 2" slats so it's not a completely solid surface and water could drain through it. Any other suggestions would be appreciated.

[krich]

If it were me, and depending on the size, I would seriously consider the use of marble or granite. If set and sealed properly, it should be virtually impervious to weather and should last a lifetime. Might be a little pricy though but hey, it would be nice! If your really set on wood, what about a composit material? If that's not an option, I would use decking material such as redwood and, as you stated, set it with a slight grade so water would run off.

[Don]

Hey, Will. Krich has some good ideas, my first thought was look into maybe making your own concrete top for it, I've always wanted to try that. I also like your idea of slats, anything to keep air circulating is good. Composite materials are an option. I'd stay away from a big slab of built up lumber and trying to keep it nice. Horizontal wood simply does not stand the test of time. But, it might be worth it if you could find a natural "slab" of wood that would be big enough, that way the natural edges and cracks would simply add to the look. Masonry, stone or composite are the only things that are going to last any length. A wood top that is painted might last a while, clear coated will come in second. Of course, keeping whatever covered will make it last as well.

Let us know what you decide on and give us some pictures of ya'lls efforts.

All the best, Don

[thekl0wn]

Personally, I'm not a fan of composite, but that's me... Redwood isn't a great choice, simply because of how soft it is. If it were me, I'd either go with some form of tropical hardwood (Ipe, Tigerwood, etc) or Don's idea of concrete. I have experience with both, so if you're curious, let me know.

[Rick m.]

one more option, other than wood, is tile ...I have seen some outside bars made of tile and they look really nice..stands up to the weather nice and fairly inexpensive..

[Don]

Hey, Will, how did this project turn out?

dawjr