Most barbecues will to spend the majority of their lives exposed to the elements while sitting on an outdoor patio or waiting in the backyard for the next smoky soirée. Wind, rain and sunshine will take a toll on even the most robust structures. To protect their barbecues, grillers have added barbecue covers to the growing list of accessories necessary for a successful cookout, and retailers have responded with a variety of options.

Materials

The purpose of a BBQ grill cover is to provide protection against the elements and to secure the longevity of the investment. The materials used by all quality cover manufacturers should provide basic insulation from sun and rain, but consider what type of climate and storage the barbecue will spend its time in before committing to a particular cover.

The two most common types of covers are made of vinyl tarp or woven fabric, and each of these materials will provide protection from both sun and moisture. A heavier cover will provide more protection for an outdoor grill, though a lighter version may suffice for a barbecue that is often stored away from weather. Some covers will have a soft backing to provide additional protection for the grill, but consider the climate as well, since too much moisture trapped in the backing can lead to mold or mildew.

Investment

For simple protection, a basic cover can be found for as little as $10 for smaller model barbecues and basic versions of large BBQ covers don’t have to cost much more than $50. The largest cart BBQ covers may be a little pricier, but stock models can still be found for a relatively low price. Just remember the value of the protection these covers give to a large and expensive piece of BBQ equipment; it would be much costlier to replace the barbecue.

If a stock model sounds dull and doesn’t do justice to the impressive new grill in the backyard, consider custom BBQ covers as an upscale alternative. Companies offer a wide variety of colors and styles designed to suit any grill. Monogrammed BBQ grill covers go one step further and add a personal touch to a utilitarian item.