Ideas

Roofs for outdoor kitchens and BBQ areas

An outdoor kitchen has different needs from a deck you sit on. Smoke has to escape, grease and heat sit near the roof, and you want light to cook by after dark.

What works best

Opening Louvres

Open the motorised blades while the grill is going so smoke and heat escape, then close them flat when it rains. Integrated LED lighting runs around the perimeter and posts.

Metal Pergola

A solid metal roof is a straightforward choice for a covered BBQ area that should stay dry all year, with full shade in summer.

Fixed Panels

Glass or louvre panels on the windward side keep gusts from blowing out burners without closing the area in.

Things to plan for

Clearance: keep the grill well below the roof line and follow your appliance maker's clearance guidance.
Drainage: louvre roofs drain through concealed channels at a 3-degree fall, so plan where that water goes.
Lighting circuits for louvres are signed off by an electrician as part of the install.

Not sure about consent? Check the building consent guide for your council →