Your Step by Step Guide to a Patio Grill: Cost, Best Brands, and Installation

Summertime is no time to be all cooped up in the house moping about. Instead, it's time to gather friends and family and have the best BBQ party you can think of.  This involves a lot, though, one of which is having the best patio grill, without this, your great party will be a mess.

So, what are the best brands to invest in? How much does it cost to purchase one? How do you install outdoor kitchen gas grills? We will answer all these questions and more in this article. So, come along as we take you on a step-by-step guide to a veranda grill.

Best Terrace Grill Brands 

Here are some of the best porch grills: 

Sunstone Built-In-Grill (SUNCHSZ301IR-NG)

Sunstone Built-in Grill is an excellent product designed to meet your cooking need. Here are its overall features:

• It has an integrated dual gas and 30 000 BTU burners for an efficient performance
• Its electronic ignition system enables users to turn on the grill with ease
• It  features charcoal and a wood-burning drawer for more cooking options

• Sunstone  offers many ways to smoke, sear, or cook your meals
• Users are free to load the adjustable top tray with their choice of wood pieces
• It is sturdy  and durable owing to its 304 stainless steel construction
• Furthermore, it features an easy-lift spring-assisted hood

Sunstone’s built-in grill features a lifetime limited warranty on its components and construction. This is all the assurance you need to make a risk-free purchase

Backyard Hibachi Flat Top Gas Grill

Another product many prefer is the Backyard Hibachi Flat Top Gas Grill. It is well-liked for its versatility, ease of use, and easy clean-up process too. Whether you wish to sear, roast, fry, steam, flambé, sauté or barbecue your meal, you can do it all with this backyard grill!

• It features an ultra-thick cook plate that gets its heat directly from the gas burner
• The cooking plate provides versatile cooking heat. With this versatile heat range, users can cook all kinds of meals including meat, fish, and vegetables.

• The top is made of solid wood construction for a durable outdoor use
•  It also has a high gloss finish which gives it an aesthetic look
• Backyard gas grill is made of a commercial-grade steel top and comes with a drip catch. Hence, you won’t experience oil spills
• The product offers a commercial-grade high input propane burner with adjustable heat
• Besides, it comes with casters that are large for mobility

MONT ALPI Grill (MA1805-D90C)

Save 4% when you purchase the MONT ALPI Stainless Steel Grill.we are impressed with the product due to the following:

• It features six burners with all made of 304 stainless steel construction
• The product comes with white waterfall cabinets and a 90-degree corner unit. This can fit your patio perfectly

• Also, the grill has a roti kit and a complete lighting system. Thus, it’s suitable for use at night. 
• Besides, it has an electronic ignition for swift use 
• It has a BTU heat output of 115 000 for an optimal cooking experience
• Still, its gliding rubber caster wheels are ideal for easy movement
• MONTI comes with easy access grease trays. This makes clean-up and waste disposal easy and straightforward
• Also, you need not struggle with assembling it as the product comes fully assembled

Types of Grill Fuel

There are different types of grills available on the market with wood pellet and gas grills being the best. But charcoal and gas roasters are also very popular and in high demand. Still, wood pellets and electric grills are also great options to consider. Here is the essential information to have about each grill type:

• Gas Grills

These are the most popular and common types of grill. Gas grills feature adjustable burner knobs which are easy to control and thus reduces the likelihood of burning meals. They ignite and heat up; all you need to do is push the button, and it's up, clean and easy! This grill is ideal for barbecuing and does not create much mess; thus, clean-up is easy and swift. But, note that you will need to set up a natural or propane gas line on your property.

• Charcoal Grills 

It is a more hands-on grilling option but requires some time to heat up and cool down after use. To operate a charcoal grill, you will need lumps of charcoal or briquettes to ignite. Charcoal grills have more impact though. It gives a more barbecue flavor than other types of grills including gas. This is because it tends to get hotter than the rest. While it may seem more time-consuming and stressful, it is excellent for grilling purists who are ready to work for it. 

• Electric Grills

Electric grills are an excellent option for those looking for a convenient grill. It is especially great for apartments that don't allow grills. It's easy to use; just plug it in and watch it come to life. Yet, regardless of how easy it is to use, do not expect that steaks, burgers, and other meals got from this grill will have the same flavor and taste as those from a real BBQ grill.

• Pellet Grills

This is the latest addition to grill technology but has already garnered so much love from consumers. Pellet grills involve the use of hardwood pellets made from wood scraps to create heat enough for grilling. Pellets provide tasty and natural hardwood flavor to food. But, they are expensive and not readily available.

Cost of Porch Grills

There are different types, sizes, brands, and quality of grills, all of which determine how much a grill will cost. In general, here is how much you will procure a courtyard grill:

• Pellet Grills: Pellet grills cost an average range of $200 to $2000. These grills are typically more expensive than gas grills. This is owing to the extra features it possesses such as a hot rod igniter and electric control panel. Others include motorized feed auger, hopper, induction fan, and so on. The additional cost of these features makes the pellet grill more expensive.
• Gas Grill: The cost of gas grills isn't fixed. You can get one as low as $100 or as high as $10000. It all depends on what you want. There are many reasons for the varying price of the gas roaster, but the most important is durability. Cheap gas pits aren’t built to last, while the high-priced ones will serve you well.
• Charcoal Grills: Charcoal grills are usually less luxurious than gas grills and hence cost less. A regular kettle-style outdoor grill can cost between $50 to $250. Some cost more though, with the price going up as high as $2000.
• Electric Grills: Like the others, electric grills have no fixed price. The cost is based on the brand, features, quality of material, and lots more. Generally, you can purchase a standard outdoor electric grill for as low as $200 and more.

DIY: Impact of Several Features on Cost

It's challenging to know the exact amount it will cost to set up a deck grill. This is because there are many variables and features, with extras and other small details that can impact the cost.

Below are factors that impact the cost:

Features

There are standard features, and then there are optional features. Standard features are those things found in most outdoor kitchen grills. Without them, your grill may not function optimally. While optional features are those things you can do without. Let's take a look at these features:

• Grills

This is the core of every outdoor kitchen. Thus, it is important to pay utmost attention to it to avoid investing in a grill you will rarely ever use.  There are grills explicitly designed for outdoor use and are available in gas, electric, charcoal, and pellet grills.

Also, you can choose between upright, smokers, and barrel grills; users can incorporate more than one grill in their design. If you desire an in-built grill, you will spend between $1 000 and $3 500 for the grill alone. But if the option is a drop-in grill, then the average cost is between $1 000 to $2 500.

• Flooring

This is another standard feature for every outdoor kitchen grill, and like grills, there are tons of various options to choose from. You can decide to fix tiles. These are trendy and offer various designs to select from. They are more susceptible to damage than other options though.

The cost of tilling depends on whether it's a ceramic or porcelain tile you will be opting for, but generally, be ready to spend between $500 to $2 000. There's also poured concrete; this is more popular, durable, and easy to maintain. You can install concrete for approximately $3 000.

Stone is another good option to consider. It is durable, sturdy, and adds beauty to your kitchen. For this, you will spend between $40 to $100 per square foot. There is also ready-made stone flooring. This cost at least $60 per square foot.

• Counters

Counters are often incorporated into your grill. You can select between a custom-made or fabricated framework. Generally, an ideal counter framework will cost about $200 to $600 per square foot. There's also the countertop material to choose from. 

Granite is the most popular and expensive material, costing between $60 to $80 per square foot. At the same time, bluestone costs approximately $250 per linear foot. There are also tile counters; these are less expensive, with an average cost of $10 to $25 per square foot.

•  Furniture

You may also choose to have outdoor furniture where your family and guests can sit. The cost of this will depend on the type of material used and how many pieces of furniture you will purchase.

• Sinks

This is an optional feature. You will have to consider water lines and drainage, all of which impact the cost. Top mount sinks can cost as much as $750, while under-mount sinks range between $150 to $500. This does not include the cost of water lines, plumbing, and labor.

• Refrigerators

Although this is an optional feature, having one will prove handy as you can store drinks and uncooked meals in it. You can purchase a mini-fridge for as low as $300; you will have to channel power from your breaker to the outdoor kitchen grills, though. And as you know, this will shoot up the price.

• Water, Gas, Power

This can prove to be a standard feature depending on the occasion. For instance, if you plan to entertain into the night, then lighting for illumination is compulsory. Also, you will need power for appliances like refrigerators (if you choose to have one). Still, if you will be installing sinks, then water is necessary. Also, consider the type of gas you will be using. All these have various price ranges.

DIY: Creating a Veranda Grill

Here is a step by step guide on how to create a patio grill:

Step 1: Determine the size and type of grill you want to install

Measure your grill, taking note of the width. Also, take note of other relevant dimensions, remembering you will fit in a countertop later on.

Step 2: Ensure the ground is flat

Since it's going to be a permanent fixture, you have to note the concrete and other materials. Flattening the ground is essential; if not done, you can end up having ill-fitted cinder blocks.

To flatten the ground, use a tamper to press down on the soil; this gives it a more cohesive feeling. If the setup's location is hilly, a spade and gardening fork will help get the dirt away before you begin leveling.

Step 3: Mix the Concrete

Mix the concrete in a bucket, allowing it to sit for a minute after that. While the concrete sits, pull out 2 x 4s and make a box out of them, using screws where necessary, and aligning it to the grill area. 

Tap the wood area with a mallet, ensuring there are no concrete leakages from beneath the wood. Pour in your concrete into the woodblock and then even it out. Since the ground is level already, you shouldn't have much of a problem here.

Check the concrete to see if it's flat and smooth; if it's not, you can use a shovel or tamper to reposition the concrete. Ensure you do this before the concrete hardens. We recommend a 2" to 4" concrete.

Step 4: Lay Cinder Blocks in Place

It's time to build! First, start by making a rectangular shape while creating a spot for your grill at the center. You will install cabinet doors on the left, so create space for that, while on the narrow end of the concrete wall, ensure there’s space for a vent. 

Now, mix some concrete and pour between your cinder blocks to solidify it. You can either choose to fit in your griddle at this point or wait till you are done. The former part will suffice if the grill is a heavy-duty one, but if not, then the latter option is a better option.

Step 5: Install your drill

 Assuming you have enough space for a drop-in and didn't have to build around one, it's now time to fit in your grill. You will need extra help for this, so ensure you have someone around. Lift the griddle and then gently drop it over the cinder block housing. Ensure the countertop will fit around it.

Step 6: Install Cabinet doors

By now, most of the frames are done. Therefore you can install your cabinet door. You can either do this by drilling holes through earlier installed steel or the use of various steel L brackets to wedge it into place.

Step 7: Install ventilation

You can also do this by using some L brackets to push the vent in place. A vent is essential as it prevents the build-up of moisture under the grill.

Step 8: Build the other cinder blocks

With your grill, cabinet, and vent in place, it's time to lay the rest of the cinder blocks. Ensure it's all level, then allow it to dry up.

Step 9: Mold grill to frame

The last thing you want to hear are clunking sounds when grilling. Hence, it's important to mold your grill to fit the structure properly. You can quickly achieve this by using a metal bracket, but you will also need a hook to prevent it from shifting.

Step 10: Install the countertop

It's time to fix that new, shiny countertop you bought a while back. To do this, place the countertop on your cinder blocks, then screw it in place.

Step 11: Double-check, test, run, and clean up

Check if everything is as it should be. Test the grill to be sure it's working. Once it's all set, clean up and enjoy your brand new outdoor kitchen grill.

Why are Built-in Grills so Expensive?

Built-in grills are usually very expensive because of the material used in their construction. While regular grills cost an average of $200 to set up, a standard built-in gas grill can cost as much as $1 000 or even more.

The grill alone can cost between $200 to $1 000. The cost of burners, briquettes, grids, and all other parts and facets also impacts the grill's overall cost. The type of material chosen also plays a significant impact on the overall cost. For instance, burners made of high-quality stainless steel will cost more than those made of cast iron and so on.

Are Outdoor Kitchens Worth It?

The popularity of outdoor kitchens has continued to grow in recent times. Experts believe that It adds much value to a home. A recent study shows that buildings with an outdoor kitchen have between 100% and 200% ROI than homes without one. Here's how it adds value to your home:

• It increases the value of your home: By adding an outdoor kitchen to your home, you will position your home to be in line with the latest kitchen models. Therefore, you will rake in more money should you decide to sell.

• It increased the size of your home: Have you ever thought of increasing the size of your kitchen? Or perhaps you wish to have more space where you can entertain family and friends? 

Well, the best backyard kitchen grills will help you achieve this and even more. In constructing an open space kitchen, you create a functional place of relaxation and eating. This prevents you from running in and out of the house every time.

• It improves your general well-being: One of the tremendous benefits of investing in an outdoor kitchen is that it improves your well-being. This is because you will be outdoors more. 

Spending time in an outdoor kitchen helps to improve your memory and ability to concentrate. It also restores your mental energy, sharpens your thinking and creativity, and lowers your stress level. Isn't your health worth the investment?

What is the Best Outdoor Grill to Acquire?

When we compare gas grills in terms of features and qualities, it's challenging to pick the best grills as they are all great products. However, the slight variance makes all the difference, and that's why we will pick Coleman as the best outdoor grill to acquire. It is a portable kitchen grill and ideal for your tailgate.

Also, Blaze grills are an excellent brand of grill to consider. They offer a wide variety of models and have all the features that make a great outdoor grill.

Can You Use a Regular Grill in an Outdoor Kitchen?

Yes, you can use a regular grill in an outdoor kitchen. Although this may seem such an easy thing to do, it's not so easy in reality. First, you will always need to take it out whenever you wish to use it and bring it back in when you are done.

Also, outdoor grills are specifically designed to survive harsh weather. Therefore they are sturdy; will not rust and corrode. On the other hand, regular grills are made for lightweight use. When used regularly for outdoor grilling, they start to deteriorate and become less efficient.

Other features such as sinks, water, refrigerator, and so on, which make outdoor grills convenient, are lacking in regular grills. This makes it more stressful to use.

Is It Safe to Grill on a Patio?

Whether it's charcoal or gas, grilling often involves fire or, at best, very high temperature. Hence, it can get out of control if not properly managed. But yes, it is safe, but only if you adhere to some basic safety tips. They include:

• While setting up your veranda grill, ensure it's at least 10 feet away from your building and sidewalls. Also, ensure it’s away from plants, furniture, awnings, and any other flammable material.

• Even the best gas grills flare up from time to time, hence ensure yours rests on a flat and non-combustible surface. Besides, some grills have adjustable legs for uneven ground. 
• We also advise you to procure a mat for your grill; this will prevent the grill's damage and scorching. 
• Furthermore, leaving a grill unsupervised is a recipe for disaster; hence avoid doing so. Have a fire extinguisher placed close by and endeavor to read through your grill's manual. 

Conclusion

With the sun out and the mood right, all you need to have a fulfilling day is friends and family over at your place. They can help themselves to great tasty meals from a smoking hot grill and have a good time. However, the choice of a grill determines how your meal will come out. 

And this is why in this article, we have critically analyzed the patio grill. From the best brands, the cost implication to its installation, and lots more, you now have all the information needed to make a good decision.