Is Grilling Under a Pergola Safe? The Dos and Don’ts

What could be better than having a mouth-watering meal with your friends and family while enjoying each other’s company? But what if you want to take your grilling game to the next level by hosting an outdoor barbecue under the stars or perhaps seeking some shade to beat the scorching sun? Can you grill under a pergola without any worry?

Well, the good news is that it’s possible, but there are certain things you need to keep in mind before you start cooking up a storm. In this article, we’ll discuss all the potential hazards and precautions you must take to ensure safe grilling under a pergola.

So, if you want to up your outdoor cooking game while staying safe and practical, stick around and read on!

What is a Pergola?

A pergola is an outdoor structure made from wood, metal, or other materials that provides an architectural element to a garden or other outdoor space. Common pergola features include beams and columns that form an open lattice in the roof, as well as decorative elements like planters and hanging baskets. This architectural feature can provide shade during hot days, protect against rain and create a more comfortable cooking environment outdoors.

Adding a pergola to your outdoor space can enhance the experience of grilling or cooking outside. Not only does it provide necessary shelter from the elements, but its aesthetic value adds to the atmosphere for entertaining guests. For example, a pergola can enhance the outdoor cooking experience by providing a space to hang lights or fans to create a cozy atmosphere or to grow vines to add some greenery to the space.

The open-air design also allows for better ventilation so that smoke from grilling doesn’t build up quickly in one area. With proper maintenance and upkeep, a pergola can last for many years and become part of your home’s landscape.

Pergola vs Awning vs Gazebo

A pergola is a freestanding or attached outdoor structure made of wood, metal or other materials that provides partial shade and a decorative element to your backyard. It typically has a latticed or open roof and can be customized with different materials and designs.

An awning is a retractable or stationary fabric or metal structure that attaches to your home over windows or doorways and extends outward to prevent from sun and rain. They come in various styles and can be motorized or manually operated.

A gazebo is a free-standing outdoor structure with a roof and open sides, typically made of wood, metal, or other materials. It can provide complete shade and shelter and can be used for outdoor dining, relaxation, or entertainment.

Choosing between a pergola, an awning, or a gazebo depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Tips for Safe Grilling Under a Pergola

When the sun is shining and the weather is warm, there’s nothing quite like firing up the grill and cooking delicious food outside. However, it’s important to remember that grilling can pose some safety hazards, especially when cooking under a pergola.

Fire Risk

The biggest safety concern when grilling under a pergola is the fire risk. According to the National Fire Protection Association, about 10,600 home structure and outdoor fires involving grills yearly occurred from 2014-2018. To prevent fires, it’s crucial to maintain adequate clearance between your grill and any nearby structures.

The NFPA Fire Code has specific regulations that discourage using any device used for cooking or heating, including hibachis, gas-fired grills, charcoal grills, or similar devices on balconies or under any overhanging portion or within 10 feet (3 meters) of any structure. It’s important to follow these clearance regulations as well as any specific regulations from your grill’s manufacturer.

Carbon Dioxide Poisoning

Another safety concern to consider is carbon dioxide (CO) poisoning. Every year, at least 420 deaths in the U.S. are due to accidental CO poisoning not linked to fires. Infants, the elderly, and people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or breathing problems are more susceptible to getting sick from CO. Although pergolas have open space, those with screens, louvers, curtains, and other coverings create enclosed spaces that increase the risk of CO poisoning. Also, grease splatters during grilling can damage these coverings, further reducing the required clearance and increasing the fire risk.

To prevent both carbon dioxide poisoning and fire risk, ensure adequate ventilation around your grill. If you have a pergola with screens, louvers, curtains, or other coverings, consider retracting them to improve airflow and reduce the risk of damage. If the coverings are not retractable, you may consider not grilling under the pergola altogether.

Additional tips:

• Never leave the grill unattended, as you want to be vigilant about any potential hazards that could lead to a fire.
• Always have a fire extinguisher on hand when grilling.
• Keep kids and pets away from the grill. This is a general safety tip for grilling, but it’s worth repeating here. Kids and pets can be curious and may inadvertently get too close to the grill, potentially leading to injuries or accidents.
• Use an under-grill mat to prevent slipping and to catch any grease or ash that may fall.
• Check for leaks whenever you reconnect the grill to the gas container or if you smell gas.

Designing a Pergola for Grilling

Designing a pergola for grilling is a fun and exciting project that can take your outdoor cooking game to the next level. There are a few key design considerations when planning your pergola.

First, consider incorporating a built-in grill station into your design. This can include counter space, storage for grilling tools, and even a sink for easy cleanup. Not only will this make your grilling experience more convenient, but it can also add a stylish and functional element to your outdoor space.

Another important factor to consider when designing a pergola for grilling is the materials you choose. It’s essential to select materials that can withstand heat and smoke, such as steel or concrete. Wood is also a popular option, but make sure to choose a type of wood that is durable and resistant to weather and insects.

Size and placement are also important design considerations. Your pergola should be large enough to accommodate your grill, especially its required clearance and any other features you want to include, but not so large that it overwhelms your outdoor space. It’s also important to consider the placement of your pergola in relation to your house and other outdoor features like patios or landscaping.

One more thing, as mentioned above, if you want to install privacy screens, louvers, or any covers for your pergola, install retractable ones because of increased grilling safety.

Conclusion

In conclusion, grilling under a pergola can be a great experience, but it’s crucial to prioritize safety. The two main safety concerns are the risk of fire and carbon dioxide poisoning. To prevent these risks, maintain adequate clearance between your grill and any nearby structures, ensuring adequate ventilation and avoiding screens, louvers, or curtains.

If you plan on designing a pergola specifically for grilling, consider adding a built-in grill station and selecting materials that can handle the heat and smoke. And, of course, be mindful of the size and placement of your pergola to ensure sufficient clearance and ventilation.

After all, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a delicious meal cooked up on the grill in the great outdoors. Do you have any experiences or tips to share? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Happy grilling!