To make the most out of your space is to choose the most useful fixtures and amenities to go with. And a grill will be a key part of it.
It is one of the best features of any kitchen, whether outdoor or indoor spaces. A grill not only serves as a statement piece, but it also allows you to food prep.
Think of sizzling grill-worthy veggies such as zucchini, corn, sweet peppers, and onions. What about cheese, chops, burgers, and sausages?
The smoky aroma, the added layer of flavor, and the sound of sizzling meat may be enough to entice you to start grilling. But do you know which grill is appropriate for your outdoor space?
You can start by choosing between freestanding and built-in gas grills. Both share the same role in the kitchen but they are different in some ways. But when it comes to comparing the two, keep in mind that neither is better than the other. However, one will be a better choice for your needs.
Freestanding or standalone grills and built-in grills will give you a range of fuel options. You can pick from natural gas, gas, and charcoal models. And they can come with a plethora of features and technologies.
However, beyond all the bells and whistles, mobility is a good factor to consider. And this is especially important if you’re planning to remodel or invest in an outdoor kitchen with a grill as one of the mainstays.
In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between freestanding and built-in grills. We’ll also go over their pros and cons, and we hope you’ll be able to pick one that best suits your space, needs, and budget.
Freestanding Grills vs Built-In Grills: What’s the Difference?
What differs a free standing grill from built-in one is its portability.
Freestanding or stand alone grills, as the names imply, can stand on their own. These portable grills provide adaptability. Built-in grills, however, are fixed into a structure or countertop and you can’t move it from one location to another. These grills are stationary and are designed for enclosures.
Both types of grills are of high quality, however, because a built-in grill can withstand extreme weather conditions, it is a preferable choice over a freestanding unit.
But you don’t choose a built-in grill solely for that reason. You must also consider the amount of available space in your backyard. If you only have a small garden, that space may not be enough to accommodate a built-in model. But if you have a large space, integrating a built-in grilling station adds value to your home.
But if you want something you can roll in and out of your outdoor kitchen, a freestanding grill will often come with a wheeled cart that allows you to move it around. You can get it out of the way after use or you can bring it with you when you go camping.
Freestanding Grills
These types of grills have a good reputation when it comes to flexibility. They’re mounted onto wheeled carts and often offer storage compartments. Freestanding grills are the most common type and typically use natural gas, propane, pellets, charcoal, or sometimes combinations of these fuel sources.
Depending on the model, they are often less costly than most of their built-in counterparts. Those with larger cooking surfaces and a plethora of extra amenities like a rotisserie attachment and infrared burners are considered higher-end. And they can cost as high as the price of built-in grills.
You’ll also find lower-end freestanding grills that are capable of what they’re designed to do but with fewer capabilities. These are ideal if you’re on a tight budget and don’t have a dedicated spot for a grill, but want a portable grill you can move around.
Since they are portable, you can swap your backyard to fit a fresh layout if you get new furniture or another appliance. And you can store it away during the winter.
On the downside, however, not all of them can be fitted into a surround. Some freestanding models are incorporated into an enclosure, allowing you to remove the cart and slide in between two counters. Other manufacturers simply don’t recommend doing this as it will void the warranty.
Another drawback to freestanding grills is that they aren’t as durable as their built-in counterparts. Yes, they are made of high-quality materials, but they don’t have the weather-resisting power of built-in grills.
Pros
• Generally cheaper (but depends on the model you pick)
• Comes with side shelvings and storage compartments
• Portable and easy to slide in and out of your kitchen
• Available in a range of fuel sources and sizes
• Fast and easy to set up – no costly installation required
• Easy to fit into new layouts
Cons
• Not all of them can be fitted into a surround (or doing so will void the warranty)
• Not as weather-resistant as built-in grills
Who Needs a Freestanding Grill?
Freestanding, standalone, and portable grills are ideal for people with small outdoor living spaces. And since they are on the lower end of the budget range, they are an excellent choice for those looking to save money. They’re also a great alternative if you don’t need a fixed structure or just rent the place.
Built-In Grills
Built-in grills are the highlight of any outdoor island. These grills are specially designed, engineered, and assembled to be fitted into structures such as outdoor kitchen islands. They are designed with durability and ventilation in mind. So, they must be safe to use outdoors and can withstand any weather condition.
Their design and durability make them more expensive than freestanding models. The cost will vary based on the choice of a prefab edition or a customized design. Other factors that determine the price of a built-in grill are the size of the grill and the number of additional features and add-ons.
And yes, they can be so expensive that you may have to end up getting a freestanding unit. However, their durability and the features they offer should be worthwhile in the long run.
If you’re going to opt for a built-in grill, make sure to consider the dimensions you want both for your immediate needs but also in future scenarios. So, if you want to upgrade or when it’s time to replace your grill in the future, it will be easier to find one that will fit into the cutouts of your counter space.
However, you can’t really upgrade the size of the grill. Unless, of course, you decide to change your island, which can raise the overall cost significantly. It will be quite an expense if you factor in labor costs, materials, contractor fees, and permits.
Before installing a grill, consult with your local municipality or homeowner association to see if there are any regulations on the type of built-in grill you can install.
Pros
• Superior durability and more resistant to elements than freestanding models
• Comes with a range of features
• Available in prefab and custom designs
• Increase the value of your home
Cons
• Expensive
• Requires permits and contractors
• Pricey labor cost
• Time-consuming to install
• Can’t be moved around
Who Needs a Built-In Grill?
If you have the space and want to set up an outdoor kitchen, a built-in BBQ grill is a nice addition. A built-in grilling island is a wonderful investment that adds value to your home. That is, if you’re ready to invest the money and time to have it built to perfection, of course.
What To Consider Before Buying a New Grill?
Besides budget and portability, installation is one of the most important factors here. Freestanding models require no installation; just set it up anywhere you want. Make sure it’s close to a power outlet if it’s powered by electricity.
For built-in grills, there are specific state requirements to follow for installation. These regulations dictate how the grills’ are to be installed.
The fuel source is another consideration. You can choose from electric, gas, charcoal, and a combination of these sources. You’ll want to also consider features like storage space and side trays. As well as other cooking functions like a side burner, wok, roasting hood, and temperature gauge.
FAQs
Can I use a freestanding grill as a built-in?
It depends on the model you choose. Some manufacturers offer grills with removable carts that allow you to fit into an enclosure. In general, you can’t take the support of some freestanding grills. but you can still integrate it into your dedicated outdoor kitchen with a few crucial considerations.
Use fireproof materials like concrete, fire bricks and mortar, or similar materials. And make sure you construct it in an open area or with adequate ventilation. Durability, safety, and ventilation are crucial factors here.
When building a freestanding grill into your kitchen, keep in mind that it can void your warranty since they’re not designed to be installed that way or for this purpose. You must consult with the manufacturer to find out if this type of alteration is allowed. Check the recommended clearances to ensure good ventilation.
Your manufacturer may allow you to put a freestanding grill inside the new enclosure where you’ll only remove the folding sides. And before you start fitting a freestanding grill into an enclosure, make sure it is within ideal distance from the fuel source.
Try to avoid sealing the grill into your outdoor kitchen in a way that it can’t be moved or adjusted later, either for cleaning or maintenance. This forfeits the flexibility and mobility that freestanding models offer. Also, pulling it out of the enclosure for repair or replacement will be more difficult.
Which type of grill is best for a small home?
For smaller spaces, a freestanding grill will be the better option. They’re best suited for smaller spaces due to their mobility, allowing you to move it around. Freestanding grills are easy to get out of the way since they often come with lockable wheels.
Built-in grills, on the other hand, are ideal if you already are building or planning to build a separate outdoor kitchen or entertaining space.
Do indoor grills work as well as outdoor grills?
Both indoor and outdoor grills share the same role, but there’s a reason you choose one over the other. For starters, indoor grills are more budget-friendly and space-saving. But they lack the flavor that outdoor models offer unless you use a gas-powered and vented indoor grill.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing between the two types of grills, again, there is no better choice than the other. The right grill for you will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and living space. At the end of the day, it’s your home and you should choose one that you feel would suit your home and your cooking style. Good luck!
