A barbecue is made for outdoor cooking, and nothing says summer like a sausage sizzle in your backyard! But Aussie summers aren’t all just BBQs and bevvys. The summers bring with them harsh weather conditions: heavy rain, extreme UV, bird droppings, dust, and salty coastal air can all take their toll on your barbecue over time. And while throwing a cheap cover over it might seem like it’s enough, not all BBQ covers are created equal.
Some are actually just water-resistant rather than genuinely waterproof. Others fade, crack or tear after spending too much time in the sun. Then there’s the classic problem of buying a cover that looks like it should fit, only to discover it’s either swimming around your BBQ or refusing to cover the sides.
Your barbecue shouldn’t be left at the mercy of the Australian weather. So, what should you actually look for? This BBQ cover buying guide covers the key things to check before you buy, from materials and fit to waterproofing, UV protection, and wind resistance.
What a BBQ Cover Actually Has to Do (and Why Cheap Ones Fail)
A good BBQ cover has one job: to protect your barbecue when you’re not using it. But there’s more to that than just keeping rain off the lid. A quality cover should help protect against the following:
- Rain and moisture
- UV exposure
- Dust and dirt
- Leaves and debris
- Bird droppings
- Wind
- General wear and tear
Australian weather conditions can make this job particularly challenging. Strong sunlight can cause inferior materials to fade, crack, or deteriorate, while sudden rain and high winds can place considerable stress on a poorly fitted cover. A cheap cover might look like a bargain initially, but if the material starts breaking down after one summer, you’ll soon be buying another one, then another, then another… It’s a vicious cycle!
The better approach? Buy a high-quality outdoor furniture cover designed for durability. Look at the material, construction, fit and fastening system before you buy a BBQ cover, not just the price tag.
The 6 Things to Check Before You Buy a BBQ Cover
Buying a BBQ cover doesn’t need to be complicated. The best way to protect your outdoor cooking gear is to be proactive and anticipate what could most affect your BBQ. Start with these six questions before you buy a cover for your backyard BBQ.
1. Is It Actually Waterproof?
There’s a big difference between being water-resistant and waterproof. If your BBQ lives outside, as many do, choose a waterproof BBQ cover designed to keep rain away from the barbecue rather than simply slowing moisture. ARK Tarps BBQ covers are 100% waterproof and feature welded seams, protecting against rain and other outdoor elements.
2. Can It Handle Australian UV?
Rain gets plenty of attention, but the sun can be just as damaging to your BBQ, even under a roof or awning. Look for a cover with built-in UV resistance that can handle extended outdoor exposure without peeling, cracking or fading. ARK Tarps BBQ covers are UV-resistant, with the Premium option featuring anti-fade technology and a three-year warranty.
3. Is the Material Tough Enough?
A BBQ cover’s material needs to withstand more than just rain. It also needs to withstand wind, handling, and everyday wear and tear. For occasional or sheltered use, a lighter cover may be suitable, like our Classic BBQ Cover. If your BBQ is permanently exposed to the elements, a more robust, heavy-duty, or Premium BBQ cover is a better choice.
- The Classic BBQ Cover is made from durable 90 GSM XF Film, while the Premium version uses 160 GSM XF Film lined with non-woven polypropylene for a soft, fabric-like interior finish.
4. Does It Fit Properly?
A BBQ cover that’s too loose can flap around in the wind, while one that’s too small won’t protect the BBQ properly at all. Don’t assume that “four burner” or “six burner” automatically tells you which cover to buy. BBQ dimensions vary by brand and model, so measure the barbecue itself before ordering.
Our ARK Tarps BBQ covers are available in multiple sizes to accommodate kettle BBQs or grill configurations with 2, 4, or 6 burners.
5. How Does It Stay Secure?
A BBQ cover needs to stay where you put it, especially when you aren’t there. Look for covers with adjustable drawstrings, cord locks, or other fastening systems that let you tighten the cover around the base. ARK Tarps BBQ covers use adjustable drawstrings with cord locks to help keep them secure even in windy conditions.
6. Is It Easy to Clean and Store?
Your cover is there to protect the BBQ, but it still needs a little TLC itself. A good BBQ cover should be easy to wipe down or hose clean and simple to store when you’re cooking. ARK Tarps BBQ covers can be wiped clean with a damp cloth and warm water.
WARNING: Do not use chemicals or machine wash, as this can damage the waterproof coating.
How to Measure Your BBQ for a Cover
You should measure your BBQ before buying a cover for it, to ensure you keep it protected and get the most out of your investment. Don’t just measure the cooking area or hood, though. Include the shelves, side burners, handles, and any other permanent parts that will sit underneath the cover, too.
Measure the external dimensions of your BBQ, including its overall:
- Width
- Depth
- Height
You also don’t necessarily need to match the cover to the exact burner count. A four-burner BBQ may fit comfortably under a cover marketed for a six-burner model if the dimensions are suitable. We recommend checking measurements rather than relying on burner count when selecting your BBQ cover.
The aim is getting a snug, practical fit that provides enough coverage for your grill without leaving excessive loose material hanging down.
Matching the Cover to Your Climate (Coastal, High-Sun, Wet)
Now, no two grills are the same, but neither are two backyards. Grills in Far North Queensland will need different protections than those in Melbourne or Sydney. Where you live can make a big difference to the type of cover you need.
Coastal areas
If you’re near the coast, your BBQ has to deal with salty, moisture-heavy air as well as the usual weather. Corrosion can become a bigger concern, so reliable waterproofing and regular cleaning are particularly important.
High-sun areas
If your BBQ spends most of the year sitting in direct sunlight, prioritise UV resistance and durable construction. A cover that’s designed for extended sun exposure is much less likely to deteriorate prematurely.
Wet or high-rainfall areas
If rain is a regular visitor, waterproofing should be high on your checklist. Look for waterproof material and properly sealed or welded seams rather than assuming every outdoor cover is watertight.
For a closer look at what your BBQ faces outdoors, read our guide to BBQ covers for Australian weather.
Common BBQ Cover Buying Mistakes
Before you buy your BBQ cover, avoid making these common mistakes.
| Common BBQ Cover Buying Mistakes | |
|---|---|
| Common BBQ Cover Mistake | What to Do Instead |
| Choosing by burner count alone | Different BBQs have different dimensions, so always measure your BBQ before buying a cover. |
| Assuming water-resistant means waterproof | If rain is a concern, look specifically for a cover with waterproof construction. |
| Ignoring UV resistance | Your BBQ cover could spend hundreds of hours in the sun. Choose a material designed to withstand prolonged UV exposure. |
| Buying an oversized cover | More material doesn’t necessarily mean better protection. Excess fabric can flap around, making the cover difficult to secure. |
| Forgetting about wind | A loose cover can quickly become a backyard kite. Choose a secure fastening system and use it properly. |
| Covering a hot BBQ | Always allow your BBQ to cool completely before fitting the cover. Trapped heat and moisture can cause problems, including condensation. |
| Leaving the cover on indefinitely | Remove the cover periodically to allow airflow and reduce moisture build-up underneath, even if it’s waterproof. |
FAQs
What should I look for when buying a BBQ cover?
Look for waterproofing, UV resistance, durability, a good fit, and a secure fastening system. Easy cleaning and storage are useful extras.
What is the best material for a BBQ cover in Australia?
Choose a durable, waterproof and UV-resistant material designed for outdoor conditions. ARK offers 90 GSM Classic and 160 GSM Premium XF Film options.
How do I measure my BBQ for a cover?
Measure the BBQ’s overall external width, depth and height, including shelves and other permanent fittings. Choose based on dimensions rather than burner count.
Are waterproof BBQ covers worth it?
Yes. A waterproof cover helps protect your BBQ from rain and moisture, while also shielding it from dirt and outdoor debris.
Why does a BBQ cover need ventilation?
Ventilation can help reduce condensation, but not all covers are ventilated. If your cover isn’t, remove it periodically to allow air to circulate and always cover the BBQ only once it has completely cooled.
How much should a good BBQ cover cost?
Price varies according to size, material and durability. It’s worth comparing construction, UV resistance, waterproofing and warranty rather than choosing solely on price.
How do I stop my BBQ cover blowing off in the wind?
Choose a well-fitted cover with a secure fastening system, such as adjustable drawstrings and cord locks. Tighten the cover properly around the BBQ base before leaving it outside.
Keep Your BBQ Covered and Cook-Up Ready with ARK Tarps
Nobody wants to spend their Saturday morning scrubbing a BBQ that could have simply been covered. A good BBQ cover doesn’t need to be complicated. Get the measurements right, choose a durable, waterproof material, and make sure it can handle the sun, rain, and wind your BBQ will face. Choose a well-fitted cover with a secure fastening system, such as adjustable drawstrings and cord locks. Tighten the cover properly around the BBQ base before leaving it outside.
At ARK Tarps, we sell barbecue covers in Classic and Premium materials, with sizes available for everything from kettle BBQs through to six-burner models, and both options are 100% waterproof and UV-resistant. For larger or more demanding outdoor covering jobs, you can also explore our range of heavy-duty tarps. Because when the weather turns, your BBQ should be ready for the next cook-up, not ready for the scrap heap.
Ready to protect your BBQ? Shop ARK Tarps’ waterproof BBQ covers and find the right fit for your outdoor cooking setup.
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