Aluminum & Stainless Steel Grills are Great, But Which is Best for You?

You've got half a ton of grass-fed Kobe beef stashed in your freezer, and now you're wondering—should you go for an aluminum or stainless steel natural gas grill? Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preference and the style that suits your needs. If you've done some research into this year's top gas grills, you already know that both aluminum and stainless steel are excellent options.

Both materials look great and cater to a variety of tastes and aesthetics. They are both resistant to rust and corrosion, and they both come equipped with plenty of desirable features. Before we dive into the pros and cons of each, let’s clarify exactly what we mean when we talk about these two types of grills.

What Are Aluminum & Stainless Steel NG & LP Grills?

When we refer to a grill as being made of cast aluminum or stainless steel, we're primarily talking about the exterior shell of the main cooking compartment—the lid and basin. Importantly, all grills, regardless of whether they are labeled as aluminum or stainless steel, will have stainless steel components for critical parts like the grates, burners, and other key elements. This ensures durability and safety when it comes to cooking food.

The primary differences between these two types of grills lie in their appearance, weight, and price. Aluminum grills typically have a matte, blackened finish, while stainless steel models boast a shiny, metallic exterior. Depending on your style and decor preferences, you can choose the look that best fits your space. Regardless of which option you pick, your grill will look fantastic and perform superbly.

Whether you're installing a built-in barbecue grill that won't move or planning to keep your grill outdoors year-round, both materials are equally durable and can withstand the elements. If you can't store your grill indoors during the winter, make sure to invest in a weatherproof cover and a sturdy enclosure to protect it during the off-season.

Stainless steel grills tend to be more expensive because the material is harder to work with. It requires intense heat treatment and is more challenging to shape once it cools. On the plus side, stainless steel is more resistant to impact damage. However, aluminum grills are easier to repair if something goes wrong.

Both materials are corrosion-resistant, but stainless steel holds up better in damp conditions over time. That said, proper care and maintenance will ensure your grill lasts for many years, no matter which material you choose.

Shared Features of Aluminum & Stainless Steel Grills

As noted earlier, both types of grills will include stainless steel components like grates and burners. This is crucial because these parts come into direct contact with food. Using stainless steel ensures safety by preventing metal particles from contaminating your meals when heated. Plus, stainless steel looks sleek and modern, adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor kitchen.

Both aluminum and stainless steel grills are available in a variety of sizes and mounting options. You can opt for a portable liquid propane grill on wheels, a permanently installed model on a pedestal, or an outdoor countertop grill. The flexibility allows you to customize your setup based on your space and lifestyle.

Regardless of the material, your grill will likely come with most standard features, including a 60-minute gas shut-off timer, storage drawers, shelves, warming racks, and a match-free ignition system. The 60-minute timer is particularly useful for public spaces like apartment complexes, where safety is paramount. It also makes grilling at home much safer and more convenient.

In addition to these features, our grills come with theft-resistant knobs and laser-etched instruction plates. These small details add significant value, especially in communal areas, and ensure that instructions remain clear and legible over time.

Each type of grill offers a range of sizes and mounting options. Be sure to measure your available space carefully to ensure you select a grill that fits perfectly into your outdoor area.

Maintaining Your Grill

Although both aluminum and stainless steel grills are highly corrosion-resistant and built to last, regular maintenance is key to keeping them in top condition. Give your grill a thorough cleaning before and after each grilling season, and don’t forget to inspect it after removing it from storage. Check all connections and hoses for pinch marks or scratches. Every time you bring your grill out of storage, inspect the ignition, burners, and other vital components for signs of bugs, dirt, or damage. For more detailed guidance, check out our articles on grill maintenance and safety.

Rest assured that here at AEI, we offer all the necessary grill parts and supplies to keep your grill running smoothly. Our designs prioritize ease of part replacement and repair, so nearly any component can be swapped out using straightforward instructions provided in the owner’s manual.

Planning Ahead for Next Season

Even though summer has just begun, colder weather will arrive sooner than you think. Why not extend your grilling season with a natural gas or propane patio heater from AEI?

When the warm weather fades, you'll still want to enjoy outdoor cooking for fall holidays and beyond. Our infrared heaters are powerful, efficient, and safe. They come in a variety of sizes and mounting options, just like our grills do.

With an AEI grill and patio heater combination, you'll become the star of your neighborhood's culinary scene!