What Size BBQ Cover Do I Need? A Brief Overview

Choosing the right size BBQ cover is essential to properly protect your grill from the elements. With so many options available, it can be confusing to figure out exactly which size you need. 

Selecting the right size BBQ cover depends on accurately measuring your grill’s dimensions. Leave about 2-3 inches of clearance for ventilation. Match your measurements to standard cover sizes for an optimal fit.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting a BBQ cover so you can find the perfect fit for your grill.

What To Consider Before Choosing a BBQ Cover

Choosing the right BBQ cover involves measuring your grill, allowing clearance, considering material, and factoring in location, weather, and additional features for optimal protection and longevity.

Measure Your Grill

The most important factor in choosing a BBQ cover is accurately measuring the dimensions of your grill. You’ll want to measure the length, width, and height of the entire grill with the lid closed. 

Be sure to account for any side shelves, knobs, or other protruding features in your measurements. Double check your numbers and write them down.

Once you have the grill’s measurements, you’ll need to determine what size cover those dimensions translate to. Most BBQ covers are marketed with general size ranges like small, medium, large, etc. 

Refer to the sizing chart for the covers you are considering to find where your grill’s measurements fall. Getting as close of a fit as possible ensures maximum protection.

Leave Clearance Room

When selecting a cover, you’ll want to leave a bit of clearance room so the fabric does not rest directly on the grill. 

A tight fight can lead to premature wear. Leave at least 2-3 inches of space on all sides between the cover and the grill. This allows for ventilation as well to prevent moisture buildup.

Consider the shape and design of your grill as well. If it has an unusual silhouette like an offset smoker, be sure to get a cover made to fit that specific shape. 

You want the cover to clear any attachments and accessories too like side burners or shelves.

Material Matters

Covers are made from different types of durable, weather resistant fabrics including vinyl, polyester, and canvas. The material affects the level of protection, lifespan, breathability, and price point.

Vinyl covers are affordable and waterproof. However, they retain moisture leading to mold and mildew issues.

Canvas covers breathe better but need to be treated to repel water. Untreated canvas will easily absorb moisture.

Polyester covers offer a good balance of durability, breathability and affordability. They are lightweight and water resistant.

No matter the fabric, look for covers with features like padded handles, straps, zippers, etc that make taking on and off simple. The seams should also be double stitched for added reinforcement.

Other Considerations

• Location – Is your grill stored outdoors year-round or under a patio roof? Covers meant for outdoor/all weather use have extra waterproofing.
• Seasons – In colder climates, a cover with insulation will prevent snow and ice from building up on your grill. Look for fleece lining or foam padding.
• Portability – If you take your grill tailgating or camping, pick a cover that collapses for easy transport.
• Wind Resistance – Straps and tie downs add stability for windy conditions so the cover doesn’t blow away.
• UV Protection – Covers that filter out UV rays help prevent sun damage and fading.

Common Grill Sizes And Recommended Cover

Here are some typical dimensions for the most popular grill types with the recommended cover size:

Grill Type	Typical Dimensions	Recommended Cover Size
Small	25′′ W x 18′′ D x 38′′ H	40-42′′ W x 24-26′′ D x 32-38′′ H
Medium	30′′ W x 23′′ D x 45′′ H	44-46′′ W x 26-28′′ D x 40-46′′ H
Large	40-50′′ W x 25-28′′ D x 45-48′′ H	58-72′′ W x 26-30′′ D x 40-50′′ H
Offset Smoker	35-45′′ W x 25-30′′ D x 45-55′′ H	48-72′′ W x 26-30′′ D x 46-52′′ H

Small Grill

• Dimensions – 25” W x 18” D x 38” H
• Cover Size – 40-42” W x 24-26” D x 32-38” H

Small grills, like portable propane or charcoal kettles, are ideal for tailgating, camping, or apartment balconies. Compact covers less than 42” wide work great.

Medium Grill

• Dimensions – 30” W x 23” D x 45” H
• Cover Size – 44-46” W x 26-28” D x 40-46” H

The average sized 3-4 burner gas grill or larger charcoal kettle falls into the medium category. Make sure to measure the total height with the lid up.

Large Grill

• Dimensions – 40-50” W x 25-28” D x 45-48” H
• Cover Size – 58-72” W x 26-30” D x 40-50” H

Full sized 6+ burner gas grills with side burners need an extra wide cover typically 72” or larger. Measure the overall width including shelves.

Offset Smoker

• Dimensions – 35-45” W x 25-30” D x 45-55” H
• Cover Size – 48-72” W x 26-30” D x 46-52” H

Offset barrel smokers have an angled oblong shape so the cover needs to adequately fit that footprint. Look for covers specifically made for offset smokers.

Caring And Maintenance Tips For Your BBQ Cover

To get the longest life out of your BBQ cover, follow these tips for maintenance and care:

• Inspect the cover periodically for tears, seam splits or holes. Patch minor tears with a waterproof adhesive. Replace covers that are excessively worn or damaged.
• Check straps, handles, cords, etc. for fraying or loosening. Tighten or replace as needed so the cover stays securely fastened.
• Avoid storing the cover while wet. Allow it to fully air dry before folding up to prevent moisture trapping.
• Use a mild soap and water to spot clean the cover occasionally. Harsh chemicals can deteriorate fabric.
• Cover should be washed every 6-12 months depending on usage and conditions. Close all fasteners and use a large commercial washer and cold gentle cycle. Air dry.
• For vinyl covers, apply a light coat of vinyl conditioner after washing to restore water repellency.
• Keep cover off concrete or gravel surfaces that could abrade the fabric. Store on a clean surface.
• For long term storage, place the cover in a dry, temperature controlled area. Avoid attics, garages or sheds.
• Ensure grill is cool before putting cover on. Heat can damage the lining.

Proper care extends the usable life of your BBQ cover. Periodically inspect for wear and wash the cover to remove grime. With a little maintenance, your cover will keep your grill protected season after season.

FAQ

Learn how to choose, care for, and maintain your grill cover with these essential FAQs. Ensure your grill stays protected and functional in all weather conditions.

How Do I Know If I Need A Waterproof Cover?

If your grill is exposed to the elements year-round, a waterproof vinyl or polyester cover is a smart investment. They protect against rain, snow and humidity far better than regular fabric. If your grill is under a patio roof or only out temporarily, a less expensive regular fabric cover will suffice.

Should I Get A Tight Or Loose Fitting Cover?

You want your cover to fit snugly but still have 2-3” of clearance all the way around. A cover that’s too loose can easily blow around. One that’s too tight rests directly on the grill trapping moisture. Use your grill’s measurements to find the closest sized cover.

How Do Bbq Covers Secure To The Grill?

Most covers utilize straps, drawstrings and/or toggle fasteners to keep the cover from blowing around. Look for covers with features that make securing it simple. Some Very large covers also have loops to attach bungee cords for added stability.

How Often Should I Replace My Grill Cover?

With proper care, a high quality polyester or vinyl cover should last 2-3 years. Inspect for tears or excessive fading. If the waterproofing deteriorates, moisture will soak into the grill causing damage. Replace the cover if it becomes worn, damaged or does not fit snugly.

Should I Cover The Propane Tank Too?

Yes, always use a separate propane tank cover. This protects the gas valve and connections from weather damage. Make sure to remove any propane covers before firing up your grill.

Final Thought

• Accurately measure your grill’s dimensions before purchasing a cover.
• Allow 2-3” of clearance between the cover and grill for ventilation.
• Select a durable, waterproof fabric that breathes to prevent moisture buildup.
• Match the cover size to common grill sizes based on your measurements.
• Secure the cover properly so wind doesn’t blow it off.
• Replace worn or damaged covers every 2-3 years.

Finding the right sized BBQ cover ensures your grill is properly protected from rain, sun, snow and other elements. 

Carefully measure your grill, leave clearance, and select a cover specifically tailored to your model. Investing in a quality cover extends the life of your grill for years of continued barbecue enjoyment. 

With the proper fit, material, and features your cover will be a grill’s best friend.