The post To Use or Not To Use – BBQ Covers appeared first on UK Construction Blog.

Well, the answer is definitely, probably, maybe and never.

If your barbecue is kept indoors, in a dry space why would you want a cover. You probably wouldn’t. if it’s kept outdoors come rain or shine you really should cover it.

If you’ve spent a lot of money on a barbecue, you’ll want to keep at its best for as long as possible.

Therefore a cover seems the natural choice. A cover prevents your BBQ facing the elements and should keep you grilling for years.

But covering your grill can cause problems.

Good BBQs should be able to stand up to the elements, but meeting mother nature halfway won’t hurt.

Certainly less expensive barbecues will need a helping hand to be kept in the best shape. But  over time moisture can collect under any cover you’re using, actually causing damage.

Of course, any BBQ will eventually suffer, if left unattended.

Hot and Damp Conditions

Humidity. You get it when it’s damp. You get it when it’s hot.

So if you cover your barbecue that humidity can get trapped underneath, without any airflow, that humidity can cause rust.

If the barbecue can’t breathe because of the cover, you might see signs of corrosion.

If you live in a seaside area, the salty air can be especially damaging.

What to do?

So, when it comes to deciding on a BBQ cover, it’s more a case that you should have one but don’t keep your barbecue covered up permanently.

If it’s stored away for a long period of time, get the cover off and give your barbecue a clean.

A vented cover can help keep the air flowing. And ideally keep it in a place where the air can flow freely around.  

Custom vs. Generic BBQ Covers

When choosing your BBQ cover, you have two main options: custom-made covers designed specifically for your grill model, or generic covers, usually available in a range of outlets.

Custom-Made Covers

These give the perfect fit and are designed to fit your grill like a glove. The higher quality ones will often include venting for improved airflow and are made from premium materials.

A custom made cover will usually provide the best protection against weather and elements thanks to that precise fit.

Universal Covers

These are more budget friendly and definitely easier to get hold of than model-specific covers.

They will fit a range of grill sizes, which is good and bad. While you’re likely to find a size that fits your grill, this can lead to gaps and less secure coverage. It could become a sail in high winds.

The Best Materials for Grill Covers

Ultimately you need a cover that protects your BBQ. And the most effective BBQ covers are waterproof, and will protect it from bad weather and bugs as much as possible.

When choosing a cover, look for materials such as:

• Vinyl

• Polyester

• Oilcloth

• Weather-proof nylon

Finding the Right Fit

It sounds obvious but start by measuring your grill’s dimensions and if you’re not buying a custom cover, get one that is slightly larger than the grill.

The cover should reach the ground on all sides and should allow some airflow. Choosing a cover with straps or fasteners to keep it securely in place, will really make a difference, especially in windy conditions.

Every so often check your cover, checking it has stayed in place and continues to protect your BBQ. Readjust it if necessary. If the weather is good, why not leave the cover off for an hour or so?

This way you can protect your grill from the weather, prevent damage from corrosion and extend its lifespan.

Final Thoughts

Perhaps it’s best to think of covering our grill as an exercise in its overall upkeep, part of the overall ongoing maintenance of your grill.

Let the air get to it. Give it a clean, when you use it and when you don’t give it a once over every month or so.

And remember. Your grill handles high temperatures. It can handle a little rain too.