Whether you’re a backyard BBQ enthusiast or a professional pit master, one question always comes up: should your smoker or BBQ grill be covered? There are pros and cons to both sides, and the answer isn’t always black and white. Should a BBQ be covered?
Most people would say that it is a good idea to cover your BBQ when it is not in use. This is because weather can take a toll on the grill, causing rust and other damage. However, if you find it too much of a hassle to put on and take off a cover, your grill will likely be able to withstand a little weathering.
Keep reading to get more information about the pros and cons of using a grill cover to protect your outdoor BBQ grill or smoker from the harsh and unforgiving elements
Should a BBQ be covered
One of the great debates about grilling is does a bbq need to be covered. There are pros and cons to both sides, so it really comes down to personal preference. If you choose to cover your grill, it will help protect it from the elements and extend its lifespan.
However, you need to be careful about trapping heat and moisture inside the cover, which can lead to rusting.
If you live in an area with a lot of pollen or dust, a cover can also help keep your grill clean.
On the other hand, leaving your grill uncovered can make it more susceptible to the elements, but some people feel that it leads to a better flavor.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to cover your grill is up to but personally, I would always choose a good cover with ventilation, like this one on Amazon Grillman premium BBQ grill cover (Amazon link).
Should i cover my stainless steel grill
There’s no need to cover your stainless steel grill before winter sets in. In fact, unless it’s particularly dirty or rusty, it’s actually better to leave it uncovered.
That way, any snow or moisture will evaporate quickly, rather than sitting on the surface and potentially causing corrosion.
If you do decide to cover your grill, make sure to use a breathable material that will allow any condensation to escape.
Be sure to give it a good cleaning before using it again in the spring. With a little care, your stainless steel grill will last for many years to come.
Do grill covers cause rust
One thing that every grill owner knows is that rust is the enemy. A rusty grill not only looks bad, but it can also affect the flavor of your food.
Many grillers, therefore, cover their grills when they’re not in use, in order to keep them clean and protect them from the elements.
However, some people wonder whether grill covers can actually cause rust.
The answer is yes – if you’re not careful. Grill covers can trap moisture, which can then lead to rusting.
However, this is only likely to happen if the cover is made of a breathable material like canvas with good ventilation.
If you use a waterproof cover, or if you make sure to remove any moisture before covering the grill, you should be able to avoid rust.
What happens if I dont cover my BBQ
If you don’t cover your BBQ, the weather can take a toll on it.
Sun and rain can cause the material to break down and hasten the rusting process.
Snow and ice can accumulate on the grill, making it more difficult to use. And high winds can damage or even dislodge the grill from its stand.
So, it’s important to take measures to protect your BBQ from the elements when not in use.
A cover will help to keep it clean and dry, and extend its life. Plus, it’ll be ready and waiting for you when you’re ready to fire up the grill!
Is it OK for a grill to get rained on
It’s definitely not ideal to have your grill get rained on, but it’s not the end of the world either.
The biggest issue you’ll run into is rust, since water can cause metal to oxidize.
If your grill is made of stainless steel, you’ll probably be fine, but if it’s made of cast iron or another less resistant material, you might want to take some steps to protect it.
Covering your grill with a tarp or plastic sheet when bad weather is forecasted is always a good idea. If your grill does happen to get wet, make sure you dry it off as soon as possible to prevent any long-term damage.
Will a grill survive without a cover
The most important thing to remember is that most high-end grills are built to last. In certain conditions, it’s recommended that you have a cover. A BBQ cover can extend the life of your BBQ and keep you grilling for years to come.
But while a cover may help, it’s not always necessary. It may extend the life of your grill, but if it’s just too much of a pain for you to put it on and take it off, your grill will likely be able to withstand a ferocious storm every once in a while.
Grills are made for outside cooking, so manufacturers have to take into account all possible conditions in the outside world. These include- humid environments, rainstorms, thunderstorms, and high sun exposure. This is not to mention the heat from grilling, which it’s built to withstand on its own.
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Keep Your BBQ in Good Shape With Smart Placement
While that sunny, open deck may look like a spectacular place for your grill, it may also be your grill’s worst nightmare. Bombarded continuously by nuts from above, rain, snow, and sleet, your grill will have a hard time keeping things together.
If you can, find a sheltered space with a roof above and walls behind. This will prevent your grill from taking too much unnecessary damage and keep your machinery operating like new even when the going gets tough.
Combining good placement of a BBQ with an efficient cover will hugely extend the lifespan of your grill and keep you and your family grilling for ages. Just don’t get too carried away- we want everyone to have their fair share of the delicious steaks and sausages we know and love.
Wrap Up
So, should a BBQ be covered? There’s nothing you can do to prevent wear and tear on your grill, but a grill cover can help. IF you’re in a dry or humid climate, you might want to leave a cover-off. In rainy and coastal climates, just leave it in the open.
