The Impact of Barbecues on Decks: What to Watch Out For

There’s nothing quite like grilling on your deck during a sunny weekend or warm evening. Barbecues can turn your outdoor space into a social hotspot, but they also come with hidden risks for your deck. Heat, grease, and food spills can do a real number on the deck’s stain, paint, or even the structural integrity over time. Whether you’ve got a wooden or composite deck, it’s important to know how barbecues can impact your deck and what you can do to minimize the damage.

Let’s dive into the common risks barbecues pose to decks and some simple steps to protect your outdoor space so you can keep grilling without worry.

1. Heat Damage: Don’t Let Your Deck Get Burned

One of the most significant risks barbecues pose to a deck is heat damage. Whether your grill is charcoal or gas-powered, it produces high temperatures that can easily scorch wood or melt composite decking if it’s placed too close.

• Watch the Placement: Never place your grill directly on the deck surface, especially if you have a wood deck. The heat from the grill, as well as hot coals or embers, can burn through the stain or paint, exposing the wood to potential long-term damage. Even composite decks, which are more heat-resistant, aren’t entirely safe from scorching or discoloration.
• Use a Heat-Resistant Grill Mat: Investing in a heat-resistant mat is a game changer. These mats are designed to protect your deck from the extreme heat that radiates from your grill. Simply place the mat under your grill to prevent any heat-related damage to your deck’s finish.

If you notice discoloration or charring on your deck’s surface, it might be time to refinish or reseal the area. Products like Deck Medic Pro Oil Stain, available at Deck Medic Supply, are excellent for restoring your deck after heat exposure.

2. Grease Stains: The Sneaky Culprit

It’s no secret that grilling can get messy. Whether you’re cooking up burgers, steaks, or veggies, there’s always the potential for grease to drip down onto your deck. If left unchecked, these grease stains can ruin your deck’s finish and become tough to remove.

• Use a Drip Tray or Mat: Placing a grill mat underneath your barbecue not only helps with heat protection but also catches grease, sauces, and food drippings. This simple preventative step can save your deck from unsightly stains that can seep into the wood or discolor the stain or paint on your composite deck.
• Clean Up Spills Quickly: Accidents happen – but it’s essential to clean up grease or food spills as soon as possible. The longer they sit on your deck, the harder they become to remove. Use a deck-friendly cleaner to wipe away any spills before they can cause lasting damage. For stubborn grease stains, products like Deck Medic Pro Wash are designed to gently remove tough grime without stripping away your deck’s finish.

3. Fire Hazards: Safety First!

When grilling, the last thing anyone wants is a fire getting out of control. A stray spark or an overturned grill can quickly turn a barbecue into a fire hazard, especially if you’re cooking on a wooden deck.

• Keep a Safe Distance from Structures: Make sure your grill is placed at least 10 feet away from your home, deck railings, and any overhanging branches. This distance helps reduce the risk of a fire spreading if a flare-up occurs.
• Be Prepared: Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby when grilling. In the case of a small grease fire, baking soda or a bucket of sand can also help extinguish the flames. Avoid using water on a grease fire as it can cause the flames to spread.
• Check for Wind Conditions: Windy conditions can make grilling more dangerous by blowing sparks or embers onto your deck. If it’s a particularly gusty day, it might be best to skip the barbecue or move it to a safer spot away from the deck.

Taking the proper safety precautions when grilling can prevent potential disasters, ensuring you and your guests can enjoy the cookout without worry.

4. Deck Surface Wear and Tear: Foot Traffic and Furniture Scratches

Barbecues often mean more foot traffic, moving furniture, and hosting gatherings on your deck. All this action can contribute to wear and tear on your deck’s surface, especially if you’re constantly rearranging tables, chairs, or even the grill.

• Protect High-Traffic Areas: Placing rugs or outdoor mats in high-traffic areas, like where your guests stand while grilling or serving food, helps reduce the amount of dirt, grease, and scuff marks that make contact with your deck. Choose weather-resistant mats that won’t trap moisture underneath.
• Use Furniture Pads: Scratches from moving furniture can easily chip away at your deck’s finish. Place felt or rubber pads under the legs of tables and chairs to avoid scraping the surface. This is especially important on wood decks, where deep scratches can expose raw wood to the elements, speeding up the breakdown of your stain or paint.

Regular cleaning and resealing can also help your deck handle heavy foot traffic better. Be sure to reseal or stain every few years to protect the surface from scratches and general wear.

FAQs About Barbecuing on Decks

Q: Can I use a grill directly on a wooden deck?
A: It’s not recommended. The heat and potential for grease spills can damage the deck’s stain or paint. Always use a heat-resistant mat and place the grill away from the wood surface.

Q: What should I do if I notice grease stains on my deck?
A: Clean up grease spills immediately with a deck-friendly cleaner. For tougher stains, use an oxygen-based cleaner like Deck Medic Pro Wash to gently remove the grime without damaging the finish.

Q: How do I prevent fire hazards while grilling on my deck?
A: Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home or deck railings, have a fire extinguisher handy, and avoid grilling in windy conditions. Always be mindful of stray embers or sparks.

What To Know About Barbecues and Decks

Barbecuing on your deck is a great way to enjoy your outdoor space, but it’s important to protect your deck from the potential risks that come with grilling. From heat damage and grease stains to fire hazards and surface wear, knowing what to watch out for can help you prevent long-term damage to your deck’s stain or paint. With a few simple precautions like using a grill mat, cleaning up spills quickly, and following fire safety guidelines, you can keep your deck looking fresh and ready for many more barbecues to come.

Looking for top-quality products to help maintain your deck? Check out Deck Medic Supply for everything you need to clean, seal, and protect your deck from the impact of grilling!