Outdoor Grilling in Houston

Not long ago, barbecue grills all looked pretty much the same. Shaped like kettles or large saucers, they stood on thin legs and burned charcoal. Under the watchful eye of the cook, they could be counted on for classic hamburgers and juicy steaks.
Today, outdoor grills still produce mouthwatering summer fare, but that’s where the similarities end. Some grills look more like full-size kitchen ranges than kettles, and many models feature stainless steel rather than enamel-coated metal. And while charcoal remains a popular fuel for outdoor cooking, propane and natural gas are gaining ground. Moreover, the scrumptious alfresco fare has moved beyond burgers to include succulent seafood and roasted vegetables.
Do You ‘Cue?
Cooking out of doors is nothing new. What are new are the sophisticated, weatherproof units that transform an ordinary yard or patio into an extension of the house. “People are turning their backyards into resorts,” says Don McCullough, executive vice president of the nonprofit National Barbecue Association. “After September 11, they stopped traveling quite so much and started spending more time – and money – at home. The grill is now the place where everyone gathers.”
Top-quality grills can still be small and portable and cost less than $75, but they also might be one component in a $25,000 outdoor kitchen island that includes a sink, refrigerator, and ample storage. Real estate agents say while the price tag sounds high, an outdoor kitchen adds to a dwelling’s living space and thus increases a property’s value. Plans (available on the Web) for do-it-yourself, all-weather cooking islands help keep costs reasonable; components purchased at home centers allow handy homeowners to customize there islands and face them in brick, stucco, cast stone, or slate.  Creekstone Outdoors specializes in these types of additions to your backyard.
Choose Your Fuel
Before purchasing a grill, you need to decide whether it will be powered by gas, charcoal, or electricity. First, check out any regulations that govern you choice; condominium owners, for example, are sometimes barred from installing natural-gas lines, and apartment dwellers might not be allowed anything other than an electrically powered grill on their balconies.
Once you know the types of grills allowed, ask yourself how you like to cook. Is presiding over an open flame and a quick-cooking steak your style? If so, a charcoal grill might be the way to go, as your presence during the cooking process will usually be necessary. On the other hand, if you’d rather join your guests while a whole chicken turns gently on a rotisserie, gas is probably for you; precisely calibrated thermostats free the cook to fix the salad and mix the drinks. Outdoor chefs who long for the best brisket on the planet often opt for electrically powered water smokers, good for slow-cooking a side of beef for several hours and flavoring it with aromatic wood and herbs. Cooks who want the fire ready instantly choose gas, while those who don’t mind waiting 45 minutes for the grill to heat seen happy with charcoal.
Does one fuel impart flavor that’s superior to another? Cooks who prefer charcoal insist they know the answer: Meat juices drip down and mingle with the briquettes to create a superior smoke that permeates the food. But the opposition claims gas grills offer similar flavor. Gas grills use ceramic briquettes, volcanic rock, or steel bars to convert gas to radiant heat and to collect flavorful juices. (Because of flare-ups caused by accumulated grease, many gas grill owners prefer steel bars.)
No matter what fuel they use, the best grills come with a long warranty (10 years is good). The grill’s legs shouldn’t wobble, and construction should be of heavy-gauge aluminum or heavy sheet metal finished with baked-on enamel. If you plan to use your grill near saltwater, a rustproof stainless-steel model offers a sound investment.
When shopping for a gas grill, check out models with two or more separate burners so you can control the heat more easily. No matter how many burners the grill furnishes, be wary if it requires extensive home assembly. You might find yourself cursing and waving a wrench, instead of serving up your first lamb kabobs or teriyaki chicken.

The Outdoor Living Investment Video

Sam Hickey owner of Creekstone Outdoors talks about what a good investment an Outdoor Fireplace, Outdoor Kitchen or Patio Cover can be to any home.  Find Creekstone Outdoors on Google Maps and Places for more informatio..

Creating Your Backyard Fireplace

Outdoor Fireplace by Creekstone OutdoorsThe backyard serves as a cool place to spend the early to late evening with family and friends whatever the occasion. And what could be more wonderful than to spend special moments outdoor in front of a fireplace that provides a cozy atmosphere for everyone present. Backyard fireplaces have been a popular fixture in many homes for a long time now and more homeowners desire to have one in their own abode. Building a backyard fireplace is a good investment. Be sure, though, that you plan for it well. Some of the important things you have to consider are your budget, the type of material to use and your design which should complement the overall theme of your backyard or patio. When it comes to design, you can stick with a single style such as country, traditional or contemporary or you can also mix and match some elements.
Stone fireplace
A stone fireplace is probably the most durable you can ever have. For one thing, stones are sturdy, weather-resistant and can last for generations. You also have different choices such as the natural stones, marble which come in various colors, granite which requires very little maintenance, slate, limestone which can go with any kind of theme and travertine. Each provides a unique beauty from the others. A cheaper alternative to these heavy stones are the thin veneer stones. These are made from real stones but thinner and therefore easy to handle and work with.
Fire pits
Fire pits are portable bowls with metal stand where you can make your fire. These come in various styles such as the open and enclosed and are made from different materials. They are great for the backyard, woods, beach and even deserts as they can give you the campfire feel that you like. And besides the heat that they produce, fire pits can be used for cooking and grilling, too.
A common type of fire pit is the one made from copper. Copper has a high melting point hence, can easily make a fire. This comes in round, square and rectangular shape and with spark screens. The screen allows fresh air while maintaining the flames and preventing sparks from escaping.
Cast iron is another popular material and cheaper compared to copper. Both, however, are very durable and are, thus, an ideal investment especially if your family is fond of outdoor living. Steel is the latest addition to the fire pit materials. The most popular brand today is the Sojoe that features a deeper dish and with designs on its side.
Chimenea
The chimenea, on the other hand, features a circular tub with a cylindrical stovepipe. Originally made from ceramic, this type of outdoor fireplace was built to provide heat and cook food using wood as fuel. Apart from the traditional ceramic, the chimenea is now available in cast iron and other metals. While it serves its main functions, this outdoor stove can also be a great accent to a backyard garden or patio. Keep in mind that in designing a backyard fireplace, it’s best that you provide a picture or several pictures of what style you really like. In this way, the company or professional designer you’re consulting with will have a clear idea of your dream fireplace and customize it to your specifications.