Is it Safe to Grill on a Wood Deck?

My experience with decks isn’t just in building and protecting them; It’s also in enjoying them! And there’s nothing I enjoy more than firing up the grill and sharing a meal with friends and family on the back deck. But if you have a beautiful wood deck, you might wonder: Is grilling on it safe?

Yes, you absolutely can grill on your wood deck, but it’s important to take some precautions to protect your deck and ensure your safety.

In this post, I’ll share my essential tips for worry-free grilling on a wooden deck so you can focus on perfecting those burgers and ribs!

How to Safely Grill on a Wood Deck

Choose the Right Grill

While I appreciate the smoky flavor a charcoal grills offers, they can also generate flying embers that pose a risk on a wood deck. For deck grilling, a gas grill or electric grill are safer options. Propane grills offer quick and easy ignition and temperature control, and electric grills are ideal choices for covered decks or balconies with fire code restrictions. If you enjoy the traditional hibachi grill experience, your hibachi will require the same precautions as a charcoal grill, which I’ll cover here. (And if you’re interested in an outdoor kitchen, be sure to check out my post for ideas!)

Employ a Grill Mat

A fire-resistant grill mat under your grill catches drips and grease splatters, preventing them from reaching and potentially igniting your wood deck. It also protects the immediate area from damaging heat damage, stray embers, and heat, which can cause your wood to dry out and crack over time. If you’re like me, you’ll appreciate that they prevent oily drips from staining your wood decking, too! Get a mat that extends beyond the edges of your grill for full coverage, and clean it regularly to remove grease and debris.

Utilize Safe Lighters

Ditch the lighter fluid! It can cause dangerous flare-ups and unpredictable flames—and leave an unwanted aftertaste on your food. Instead, opt for a long-reach lighter or an electric starter to safely ignite your grill from a distance.

When using charcoal, I like a chimney starter for lighting the coals. Fill the chimney with charcoal, place crumpled newspaper or a fire starter underneath, and light it. Once the coals are covered in ash, carefully pour them into your grill. Arrange the charcoal in your grill with tongs or a metal spatula according to the meal. My favorite? A two-zone fire with both direct and indirect cooking for steak and baked potatoes!

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Prevent smoke and carbon monoxide buildup by regularly cleaning your grill vents to remove any grease or debris that could obstruct airflow. Proper ventilation ensures that the fire gets enough oxygen to burn efficiently, reducing the risk of flare-ups—as well as uneven cooking of those tasty burgers.

Prevent Burns with Safe Handling

Your regular kitchen utensils won’t cut it: Invest in long-handled grilling utensils and heat-resistant gloves to keep your hands safe from the heat and flames. Using the right tools for the task will prevent burns and accidental spills on your wood deck.

Protect Your Fuel Storage

Store your charcoal, propane tanks, or other grill fuel in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and the heat of your grill to prevent fire hazards on your deck. Ensure good ventilation to minimize gas buildup and keep them away from ignition sources like electrical outlets or open flames.

If you suspect a propane tank leak, apply a soapy water solution to the connections and valves. If you see bubbles, there’s a leak. Replace damaged tanks right away.

Properly Cool Down Your Grill

Turn off the burners or gas supply and close the lid to allow the hot coals or grill to cool completely before storing them. When I’m in a hurry, I open the lid to accelerate cooling, but never leave your open, still hot grill unattended. Once cooled, dispose of ashes and coals properly, and douse them with water if in doubt.

Clean Your Grill Regularly

Regularly clean your grill grates and drip pan to remove grease buildup to reduce the risk of flare-ups and grease fires on your wood deck. For easy cleaning, I suggest scraping the grates while they are still warm with a grill brush to remove food residue and grease. It’s easier to clear warmed grates, and you’ll be greeted by a clean surface the next time you fire up the grill. Clean your drip pan monthly or after every few uses.

Safety Precautions

Choose the Right Location

Position your grill in a well-ventilated area on your deck, keeping it at least three feet away from your house siding, deck railings, and any nearby branches or flammable materials like umbrellas, or outdoor decorations. This distance reduces the risk of stray embers or a flare-up igniting nearby objects.

Additionally, consider wind direction to prevent smoke from blowing toward your home or wood deck. Smoke and heat can degrade wood over time, leading to discoloration, weakening, or even structural compromise. While smoke itself won’t ignite wood, it can contain embers or hot particles that do pose a fire risk. Proper ventilation helps disperse smoke, minimizing these hazards and breathing and visibility issues.

Supervision is Key

Never leave your grill unattended while in use. Keep a watchful eye on it throughout the cooking process. Inattentiveness can lead to disaster, especially on a wood deck where a fire can spread quickly.

Keep Children and Pets at Bay

My cookouts are family affairs, and that means kids and dogs are running around. But grills can present a serious burn risk. Keep children and pets at a safe distance from the grill area. Consider installing safety gates or barriers if necessary to create a designated grilling zone, or establish a rule that youngsters play in the yard while the grill is in use—and keep your furry family members inside.

Have a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

Grill fires can happen in an instant. Having a fire extinguisher near your grilling area can provide peace of mind and allow you to address small flare-ups or fire emergencies quickly. I recommend a multi-purpose fire extinguisher rated for grease fires and regular checks to make sure it’s always ready. Be prepared to call 911 in case a fire gets out of hand.

Deck Grilling FAQ

Can I Grill on a Covered Deck?

When grilling on a covered deck, it’s using a gas or electric grill is generally safer than a charcoal grill to minimize the risk of airborne embers. Ensure you follow manufacturer guidelines and local regulations for safe grilling practices in covered areas.

Maintain a safe distance of at least three feet between the grill and your ceiling for proper ventilation and to prevent smoke buildup. Still, smoke may discolor the ceiling over time, so regularly clean it to remove any accumulated residue. If your deck is covered by a fabric awning or flexible canopy, make sure it’s fire-retardant and securely anchored to avoid contact with the grill.

Can I Use a Charcoal Grill on a Wood Deck?

For deck grilling, a gas or electric grill is safer than a charcoal grill due to the risk of flying embers. If you choose a charcoal grill, use caution and select a safe location away from combustible materials on or near your wood deck. Use a fire-resistant mat underneath the grill to protect your decking.

What Should I Do in Case of a Grease Fire or Emergency?

Don’t hesitate to call 911 for help if a grill fire is too big to handle on your own.

Grease Fires

If a grease fire erupts, don’t throw water on it! This can spread the flames and make the situation worse. Instead, turn off the grill’s gas supply immediately or close the lid to cut off the oxygen supply. Next, smother the flames using a fire extinguisher rated for grease fires. In a pinch, baking soda or sand can work on a small fire. If the fire becomes large or out of control, call 911.

Ember Ignition

If embers ignite anything on or around the deck, use a fire extinguisher or a garden hose to extinguish the flames immediately. Be cautious not to spread the fire by directing the extinguishing agent at the base of the flames and moving it slowly across the affected area.

Deck Fire

If the deck itself catches fire, use a fire extinguisher to try to put out small fires, but prioritize your safety and evacuation if the fire starts to grow or becomes uncontrollable. Call 911 to report the fire and follow their instructions.

Are There Any Local Regulations or Restrictions Regarding Grilling on Wood Decks?

Yes, there may be local fire codes or regulations regarding grilling on wood decks. It’s always a good idea to check with your local fire department for any restrictions. These regulations may specify:

• Safe distances for grill placement from your house, deck railings, and other structures.
• Restrictions on grill types (e.g., charcoal vs. gas) permitted on wood decks.
• Permits required for grilling on balconies or in certain areas.

By following these simple tips and safety precautions, you can enjoy delicious BBQ on your wood deck with complete confidence. With a bit of planning and care, you’ll keep your deck looking great and your grilling experiences safe and enjoyable. Now, fire up that grill and get ready to create some delicious meals and treasured memories!