DeckMAX’s Best Tips for Winter Grilling on the Deck
Are you and the family determined to keep grilling on the deck no matter how cold or how much white stuff Old Man Winter throws down upon the world? If so, you most certainly are not alone. A large number of people across the nation enjoy grilling on the deck in the winter. Of course they all know something vitally important, great tips for keeping it easy and tasty. That said, we wouldn’t want to leave you and yours out of the winter grilling fun. So here’s a quick look at some of our best advice:
Preheating
It’s cold outside and your toes aren’t going to be the only things that need time to warm up. Your grill will, too. Consequently, you’ll want to allow enough time to preheat your grill, propane or otherwise. The amount of preheating needed will depend on the temperature and your grill. However, allowing 20 to 25 minutes of preheating should be a good place to start.
Insulation
If you plan on grilling on the deck a lot during the winter months, it may be wise to invest in an insulated, arctic flexible blanket or tarp. Not for you, but for the grill. Covering the grill and propane tanks with it in between grilling sessions may help keep the metal warm, thereby cutting the preheat time down significantly. And while you’re at it, invest in extra fuel because you’ll likely need it to compensate for the extra preheat time.
Wind Protection
Plus, remember that Old Man Winter can be a blow hard at times too. So it can be hard to keep the grill going in blustery conditions. The best solution we found is to move the grill no less than 10-feet near a natural or man-made wind break and rely heavily on your grill’s built-in thermometer. Otherwise, every time you open the grill to check on your food, you’ll lose precious heat and run the risk of the flames being blown out.
Preparing the Meal
There is also something to be said for choosing dishes that have a history of cooking rather quickly and may be prepped indoors. Winter grilling on the deck is simple when you grill foods like shellfish, seafood, fruits, vegetables and thin cuts of red or white meats. Many of them may be marinated, seasoned and brushed with oil long before you ever step outside onto the deck.
Post Grilling Tips
Once you’re finished grilling on the deck, immediately bring the food indoors and then go back outside to at least scrape down the grates while they’re hot. Otherwise, you’re likely to have one heck of a time cleaning up frozen grease and bits of cue hours later. On top of that, those delicious smells may attract more than a few unwanted and very hungry critters in need of a winter meal. So be sure to empty the garbage cans located near your grill too. And don’t forget to shut down the propane tank when finished.
We hope you continue grilling on the deck this winter. The weeks will fly by quickly and Spring will be here in no time!
To get a jump on Spring deck cleaning, please contact us at DeckMax. We’ll be happy to schedule your deck cleaning service beginning in March. Happy Grilling!
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