Are you feeling ready for the outdoor fun to start? You don’t have to do a whole makeover to turn your back yard into a fun place for family and friends. A few simple items can ensure that your patio or deck is the place everyone wants to be.
For example, nothing says summer like a backyard barbecue. But before you send out invitations for the first savory steaks of the season, maybe you should have a look at that rickety old grill. If it’s more rust than roast, it’s time to buy something new.
“The new 2008 grills are just now arriving in stock,” said Judd &Black general manager Rick Kvangnes. “What’s new and exciting in gas barbecues this year is that Weber has added a sear burner.”
Weber offers many of the same features found in high-end gourmet grills but at a price that is more affordable, without sacrificing quality. You can get everything from their tailgate-friendly portable Q grill that comes in either charcoal or gas, up to the stainless steel six-burner Summit model. There is something to suit every home.
“I know from my own Weber grill that it is virtually a kitchen that is outdoors,” Kvangnes said. “Several of them have the infrared back burner for really succulent rotisserie and roast meats. The thing that Weber is really famous for is their indirect cooking. Believe it or not, you can actually bake muffins on a Weber grill. Every year I actually cook our family turkey on the Weber grill using the indirect cooking.”
Weber grills are also being manufactured in colors now. In addition to the traditional black or stainless steel, there are blue, green and even copper versions. The indirect cooking option means no flare-ups to burn your food, and new optional remote thermometers remove the guesswork by paging you when the meat is done.
Although charcoal cooking is a little more demanding in terms of time and skill, many people prefer the flavor that charcoal adds to foods.
Scott Watson, operations manager at Rich’s in Lynnwood, is seeing a new product gaining in popularity. It’s a modern version of the traditional oriental Kamado cooker, amusingly named the Big Green Egg. It smokes, grills and barbecues.
“For charcoal aficionados, the Big Green Egg is probably the best charcoal barbecue smoker combo that has been built,” Watson said. “I’ve never heard a bad word about the product.”
While your favorite meals are cooking on the grill of your choice, what about a nice soak in the hot tub? Hot tubs can be family-friendly when supervision is given to children and the temperature is kept below 104 degrees. Hot tubs are now a lot more energy-efficient than in the past, and have ergonomically correct seating for added comfort.
All Season Spas and Stoves owner Mark Spencer recommends buying a spa built by a local manufacturer. “I always tell people to look for a product that is local. Clearwater Spas, for example, are manufactured in Woodinville,” he said. “I like local products because, like anything else, a hot tub can need service. Sooner or later you’re going to need some information or some help with your hot tub.”
Cheaper models purchased at big-box stores may come with a warranty, but more often than not the manufacturer is located on the East Coast. Local dealers don’t honor these warranties, so if it breaks down, you’re stuck.
“A hot tub should be for fun,” Spencer added. “You should be able to go home and get in it, not be sitting in the back yard watching weeds growing around it.”
So join in the fun. Fire up the grill, turn on the spa jets and let the outdoor living begin.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
