Can I grill under a canopy? (Or 9 Other Covers)
A completely open area is ideal for grilling as far as safety is concerned. But not everyone has a completely open backyard. You might be wondering: can I grill under a canopy?
It’s not recommended to grill under most canopies. You may be able to grill under an open canopy that’s at least eight feet tall. But avoid heavy continuous grilling. Otherwise, smoke, grease, and cooking odors will absorb into the material. That'll make it incredibly difficult to clean. Also, you’ll have a hard time getting rid of lingering cooking odors.
Do not grill under canopies that are enclosed on all sides. Carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and formaldehyde will accumulate inside, which is dangerous for your health.
Consider the type of grill before you grill under a canopy as well. Light gas grilling or electric grilling is the safest as long as you keep the grill away from combustibles and wooden structures.
If the canopy is enclosed, avoid propane grilling. Propane tanks are highly flammable and should never be used indoors or in enclosed areas.
Never use a charcoal grill under a canopy. Heat is unregulated on charcoal grills and can reach dangerous temperatures of up to 700º.
A canopy isn’t the only outdoor cover though. You might have a pergola, awning, tent, roof extension, gazebo…the list goes on. We’ll go through nine different outdoor covers and whether you can grill under each of them.
If you’re in the market for a patio cover, check out our post on the pros and cons of five patio covers here.
Can I grill under a porch?
You can use a gas or propane grill under a porch if the area is not enclosed. The porch should be at least eight feet tall to reduce the risk of fire. Set up your grill at least a few feet away from your home and the posts of your deck. Avoid grilling with a charcoal grill under a porch because they can reach up to 700º F.
Can I grill under an awning?
You can use a gas or propane grill under an awning as long as it’s not screened on all sides. Make sure the awning is at least eight feet tall to reduce the risk of fire. It’ll also help keep heavy grease and smoke from staining the awning fabric. Avoid using a charcoal grill under an awning because it produces intense unregulated heat.
Can I grill under a pergola?
Yes, you can grill under a pergola if it’s at least eight feet tall. Gas and propane grills are OK but avoid using a charcoal grill. Make sure that your grill is installed away from combustibles and wooden posts.
Can I grill under an outdoor tent?
You can’t grill under most outdoor tents. It is a dangerous fire hazard and the material will get smoky and greasy in a matter of minutes. Only grill under a tent if it’s at least eight feet tall and open on all sides.
Can I grill under a fabric pergola?
Yes, you can use a gas or propane grill under a fabric pergola. Just make sure it’s at least eight feet high to reduce the risk of fire. Keep in mind that a fabric pergola will be less durable than a wooden or vinyl pergola. If you’re looking for a permanent cover, go with wood or vinyl.
Can I grill under my gazebo?
No, it’s not recommended to grill under your gazebo. Most gazebos don’t have the clearance or ventilation to fit a grill. With multiple guests and a grill, your gazebo will feel quite cramped. You are better off reserving your gazebo for guests and building a separate cooking station.
Can I grill under a roof?
Yes, you can grill under a roof. Eight to 10 feet of clearance is best to keep you and your family safe while grilling. If you are grilling under a roof in an enclosed area, make sure you invest in a powerful outdoor range hood to keep harmful contaminants at bay.
Can I grill under a shade sail?
Yes, you can grill under a shade sail. Install it at least eight feet off the ground to keep heavy grease and smoke off the fabric. It also reduces the risk of a fire on your outdoor patio. Keep your grill away from combustible materials.
Can I grill under a patio cover?
Yes, you can grill under patio covers such as pergolas, awnings, and roof extensions. Make sure you have at least eight-foot ceilings and adequate ventilation to cook safely. If you are grilling in an enclosed area, install a powerful outdoor range hood.
It’s not recommended to use a charcoal grill under a patio cover, even if you have a range hood. Charcoal grills get hotter than your typical gas or propane grill which can damage your range hood.
Hopefully you know whether you should install a grill on your outdoor patio. Always double check the safety requirements in the manufacturer’s instructions before installation. You want your grill to last for years to come. With a proper installation, you’ll also give your guests peace of mind.
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Can I grill under a canopy?
Otherwise, smoke, grease, and cooking odors will absorb into the material. That'll make it incredibly difficult to clean. Also, you’ll have a hard time getting rid of lingering cooking odors.
Do not grill under canopies that are enclosed on all sides. Carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and formaldehyde will accumulate inside, which is dangerous for your health.
Can I grill under a porch?
Can I grill under an awning?
Can I grill under a pergola?
Can I grill under an outdoor tent?
Can I grill under a fabric pergola?
Can I grill under my gazebo?
Can I grill under a roof?
Can I grill under a shade sail?
Can I grill under a patio cover?
It’s not recommended to use a charcoal grill under a patio cover, even if you have a range hood. Charcoal grills get hotter than your typical gas or propane grill which can damage your range hood.