Natwerk Designs

Good Grill Buying words of wisdom?

I am looking to build an outdoor kitchen and need a pretty good grill that will stand the tests of time. I can go shopping for one, but the persons at the local stores really dont know what the hell they are talking about. Anyone have any tips as to brand, what to look for in features, gas or IR? Thanks Frankly, we havent had a grill last for more than 3-4 yrs. Always rusts out the bottom. Burner rusts out, even the brass one we bought.

Public Comments

1. Depends on lots of things. Lots of grilling? Spend big. Occasional grilling? Spend medium. Never spend small, you will replace next year. Stainless steel is the best if in propane. Charcoal grilling is a science and an art I would not insult by offering advice. All propane burners give out with time so you factor that in. Stainless lasts the best and longest. The rest is preference. Oh yeah---Make sure you can do kebobs and rotisserie-- you won't regret that. Don't waste your money on side burners- a stove does the same job. I wont endorse one brand over another. that's what a warranty takes care of. Care and maint. is your job so figure that when you buy.
2. Personally we have bought cheap ones and a little medium to higher end. They last the same amount of time. The one we are using right now is my in-laws' old one and it is more than 20 years old. I would like to know the secret of a grill standing the test of time but in my opinion they will only last 2 or maybe a few more years so from now now I will buy for the here and now, not the future.
3. Buy one that will most fit your needs. How much are you willing to do to maintain the outside? How many, on average will you be cooking for? How often will you use it? I do agree that side burners are not a desired feature. Your climate may also be something to consider. Will you use the grill year round, or just in the summer months? Also, how will you protect it when not in use? In my family there are just two of us, so we don't need something large. It is propane and one tank will last us for about 2 months, and we usually grill everyday in the summer. I like it to be portable so that I can move it in case the wind is blowing a certain direction or if I want to change the patio layout around, gas will not give you this. For me, the more simple the better. We have had our Thermos grill for 10 years and have only had to make minor repairs.