Why a Quality Grill Cover Is Worth Every Penny
Your grill is one of the most significant outdoor investments you'll make. A quality cover pays for itself many times over by protecting against UV fading, rust, moisture, bird droppings, and debris. Uncovered grills in year-round climates can show significant corrosion damage within just a couple of seasons — particularly on burner components and cooking grates.
The good news: finding the right cover is straightforward once you know what to measure and what to look for.
Step 1: Measure Your Grill Correctly
Grill covers are sized by the width of the grill head (the cooking box, not the cart or base). Here's how to measure:
- Width: Measure side-to-side across the widest point of the cooking head, including any side shelves that are fixed (not fold-down).
- Depth: Measure front-to-back at the deepest point of the cooking head.
- Height: Measure from the ground to the top of the lid when it's closed.
Pro tip: If your side shelves fold down, measure with them folded for a snugger fit. A cover that's too large will catch wind and may blow off; too small and it won't protect the lid hinge or rear connections.
Step 2: Know Your Grill Configuration
Covers are designed for specific configurations. Using the wrong type can leave critical parts exposed:
- Freestanding (cart) grills: These sit on a full cart with cabinet doors and casters. Covers for freestanding grills go all the way to the ground and are the most common type.
- Built-in grills: These are set into an outdoor kitchen island. Their covers are shorter because the island skirt isn't covered — just the grill head and lid.
Using a freestanding cover on a built-in grill will leave your lid and controls exposed. Always match cover type to grill configuration.
Summerset Cover Size Guide
Summerset manufactures custom-fit covers for each grill series. Here's how to find the right match:
Alturi Series — Freestanding Grills
- 30-inch Alturi: CARTCOV-ALT30D — purpose-built for the 30" Alturi cart grill
- 36-inch Alturi: CARTCOV-ALT36D — designed for the 36" Alturi cart grill
- 42-inch Alturi: CARTCOV-ALT42D — the flagship size for serious backyard cooks
Alturi Series — Built-In Grills
- 30-inch Alturi Built-In: GRILLCOV-ALT30D
- 42-inch Alturi Built-In: GRILLCOV-ALT42D
Sizzler & TRL Series — Freestanding Grills
- 26-inch Sizzler: CARTCOV-26D
- 32-inch Sizzler/TRL: CARTCOV-32D
- 44-inch TRLD: CARTCOV-44D
Sizzler & TRL Series — Built-In Grills
- 26-inch Sizzler Built-In: GRILLCOV-26D
- 44-inch TRLD Built-In: GRILLCOV-44D
Step 3: What Cover Material Should You Choose?
All Summerset Deluxe covers are made from heavy-duty, weather-resistant polyester with a UV-stabilized coating — meaning they won't crack, fade, or become brittle in the sun the way cheaper vinyl covers do. Key features to look for in any grill cover:
- UV resistance: UV-stabilized materials hold up season after season without cracking or fading.
- Water repellency: Look for a water-resistant outer layer with sealed or overlapped stitched seams to prevent wicking.
- Ventilation: Covers with ventilation panels prevent condensation buildup inside, which can accelerate rust.
- Secure fit: Drawstrings, buckles, or velcro straps keep the cover from blowing off in wind. Summerset Deluxe covers include adjustable straps for a snug fit.
How Often Should You Cover Your Grill?
After every use, once the grill has cooled to ambient temperature. Covering a hot grill traps moisture from steam and combustion, which accelerates corrosion. Let it cool for 30–45 minutes after the last cook, then cover it before you head inside.
Bottom Line
The right grill cover is an exact fit for your specific model — not a universal one-size-fits-all. Summerset's model-specific covers are the simplest way to guarantee full protection without guessing. If you're unsure which model fits your grill, reach out to our team — we're happy to confirm compatibility before you order.
