When to Use Your BBQ Cover for Protection

Since the inception of grilling, a debate has raged: "When to use your grill cover?" A query as contentious as bone in or out and salting before or after searing. The simplicity of covering a grill belies its complexity. The day’s weather, climate in your area, and even if you have a pool or live near one, can all play a role in how and when you need to cover your grill for protection.

Coving the Bases

Covering one’s grill isn’t a hard and fast rule. Sometimes it is actually beneficial to not cover, and other times a combination of covering and not covering is what is needed. I talked to a Napoleon Product Expert who explained how to know what to do. Although it is always a good idea to have a cover for your grill, the Napoleon is built to stand up to weather no matter where you are. Less expensive grills aren’t built to our standards of quality and require a little more care to make them last. Basically, if you own a Napoleon Grill and forget to cover it, don’t panic, a little bad weather won’t do much harm.

Humid Climates:

If you live anywhere that is hot and/or humid, or experience weather that is humid, like areas on both the East and West Coast, as well as anywhere from the top third of Texas up to Saskatchewan these areas all fall under the humid zone. Humid doesn’t necessarily mean that the weather is hot and tropical. It can also mean damp – think a foggy day in London. In areas that experience weather like this, it can be a bad idea to cover your grill. Covering your grill can lead to said humidity being trapped under the cover and against the grill, leading to corrosion. Napoleon’s covers are built for airflow and have vents in them to assist in releasing excess humidity, however it’s still a good idea to give your grill some air sometimes. Your Napoleon will be perfectly fine if you prefer to cover it unless it is in use, just remember to give it a wipe down periodically, and use a stainless polish to protect it.

Coastal Climates:

Living by the ocean is scenic and relaxing, unless you’re a grill. The salty air and erratic weather are particularly difficult to manage. Our Napoleon Product Expert recommends that you cover, especially when expecting heavy rain and snow, or other inclement weather. Further it is best to perform a weekly wipe down with a damp cloth, followed by a thorough drying. This removes any salty residue and ensures a long life for your grill.

Dry Climates:

If you live anywhere that is consistently dry - the rest of Texas up through the States and Alberta over to the Rockies, you’re safe to leave the grill uncovered, though we still recommend covering to prevent coatings of dust or debris coating the grill. There’s not much that can hurt a Napoleon Grill. Napoleon’s Product Expert suggests making sure you cover the grill during extreme weather for protection at the very least.

All Climates:

No matter where you live, it’s a good idea to keep your grill in a sheltered area with space between the grill and any walls, and out of direct wind when possible. Cover your grill once the grill is cool to the touch, when you are expecting bad weather, and if you are planning on storing it without use for an extended period of time. For safety reasons, please, never grill in a completely enclosed space, in your garage, or operate your gas grill indoors. Follow these maintenance tips to keep your grill in excellent condition, no matter where you live.

Oh No! I Forgot!

Sometimes you make a perfect meal and while waiting for your grill to cool down, the sky opens up and your poor grill (and cover) get soaked. Or you turned off the burners and went inside for a delicious meal, completely forgetting about your grill for days at a time. Don’t fret. This is perfectly alright. Although it’s recommended to have a cover for your grill, it is not necessary to keep your grill covered 24/7. Just remember to give your grill a good wipe down about once a month, and cover it when necessary. If your cover gets wet, allow it to dry completely before covering your grill again. The more you take care of your grill, the longer it can make great meals with you. Check out our selection of covers and maintenance products to round out your team and keep your grill like new for ages to come.

People Also Asked:

What is the Point of a Grill Cover?

The point of using a grill cover is to ensure that your grill is protected from bad weather, debris, and the harsh, outdoor environment. Protecting your grill from these things will ensure that it stays cleaner and has a long and productive life, providing you with great grilled food for years.

Is it Better to Cover Your Grill or Leave it Uncovered?

Tree sap, lawn and garden chemicals, and evaporation from the nearby pool or hot tub are all chemicals that can have a direct effect on your grill. As well as the microscopic dirt from rain, and even leaves, branches, and hail can all cause damage to the outside of your grill. This is why it is best to keep your grill covered when possible. Moisture buildup can be a concern, however, but a Napoleon grill cover has built-in venting that allows your grill to breathe and prevents gusts of wind from being trapped.

Is it Worth Buying a Grill Cover?

Keeping your grill clean and safe from the harsh outdoor environment is a great reason to make buying a grill cover worth it. Having to do less work to keep your grill clean is always a good thing.

Can I Put a Grill Cover on a Warm Grill?

It is unsafe to put your grill cover onto the grill while it is still warm. You could cause yourself injury. You could melt or damage the grill cover, which will directly damage the grill as well. Your grill will remain warm after cooking for at least 30 to 60 minutes. Once the grill is cool to the touch, it is safe to put the cover on.