Covered patios are wonderful for year-round shade from harmful rays and harsh weather. Whether you’re outdoors entertaining friends and family or grilling up a meal, you rely on your patio cover to provide consistent protection from the elements above. However, can your barbecue grill be harming your patio cover from below? Here are some tips and rules to keep in mind when using a grill under a patio cover.

Install a Tall Patio Cover

One of the most important requirements for grilling under a covered patio is a high ceiling. Ceilings with a height of at least 10 feet give the grill enough room to emit flame and smoke without stains. This height also allows room for the smoke to air out.

Give Your Grill Plenty of Clearance

The more space you have around your patio covered grill, the safer it is to cook. Store your grill at least three feet away from the walls of the patio. This gives you plenty of room to move around the grill and keep the flames burning safely.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Every covered patio should be well-ventilated to allow fumes to escape. Make sure the exhaust fan is on, and consider adding vents or fans to your patio. If the smoke gets trapped underneath your patio, it can put you and your guests at risk of smoke inhalation.

Move Your Grill When in Use

While charcoal or gas grills can be safely stored under a patio cover, it’s best to not use them under a covered patio. The exhaust from charcoal smoke can stain your patio cover and produce a smoky scent that’s hard to eliminate. Charcoal grills can also release high flames that can be hazardous in an enclosed space. Avoid the risk of igniting your patio cover on fire by moving your BBQ grill out from underneath your patio cover when you want to grill.

Find Your Perfect Patio Cover Today

If you’re ready to begin building your perfect covered patio for barbecue season, look no further than the experts at Universal Sign and Awning. As Central Florida’s premier custom awning and manufacturers and installers, all our patio covers are built to last in Florida’s harsh environment and will perform at a high level for years to come. Learn more about our services by calling us today at 407-328-7781.