Grilling is an American tradition. And we love to grill on our decks. Nothing beats enjoying steaks, burgers, and brats with corn on the cob and potato salad with your family and friends, having fun conversation, and just spending time with the people who matter most.
You want your deck to last as long as possible, which is why Seal Smart permanently seals your deck and offers a 25-year warranty on all wood sealant projects our team undertakes.
Take a look at some quick tips for safely grilling on your deck while protecting the wood planks.
Keep an Eye on Spills
Watch out for more than just grease that spills from your grill. Grease and food that drops onto your deck can build up over time. It’s nearly impossible to remove stuck-on foods and grease over time.
Think about cleaning up immediately after the grease or food hits the wooden planks on your deck. Wipe the area with a damp cloth or floor mop and water with mild soap.
Feel the Wind in Your Hair
Windy afternoons and evenings offer great times to grill because the wind keeps things cool. Unfortunately, wind can lead to sparks flying every time you open and close your grill.
Keep your grill at least 5 feet away from walls and banister for your home or deck. Keep an eye on the wind before you open the lid on your grill. Watch out for any overhanging branches or nearby plants on windy days, and watch for any sparks that may cause a fire. If it’s very windy, consider not grilling or having a fire extinguisher handy.
Keep Walkways Clear
Arrange your deck furniture to keep walkways clear when moving to and from the grill. Consider keeping seats at least 10 feet away from any stray sparks. Never have any deck umbrellas open above the grill.
Invest in Some Safety Equipment
Just like you buy accessories for your grill to help you cook, you can do the same to protect your deck.
Drip pans are one of the best things you can have on your grill. They catch any stray grease that may fall off the meat. Drip pans go under the meat but on top of the coals.
A grill mat to place under the entire grill to keep burning embers and grease stains from reaching your deck. Purchase a durable, heavy-duty mat that won’t blow away in the wind for best results.
Safety gates to keep small kids and pets away. Of course, pets and small children will be curious about the excitement that’s happening on your deck. Put a safety gate around your grill to keep small kids and pets away for safety, and to also prevent spills.
How can permanent deck sealing protect my deck from grill spills?
Seal Smart’s permanent deck sealing comes with a 25-year warranty. It can protect your deck from moisture and rot.
Want a free quote? Request an estimate from our team and we’ll be in touch.