Will an outdoor kitchen hold up to Florida hurricanes and salt air?

By Mark Mayfield, Paradise Grills Jacksonville · 4 min read

Short answer: yes, if it is built from materials that don’t rot or rust and you give it a little care. Salt air, summer sun and storm season are hard on wood frames, steel studs and cheap stainless. Here is what lasts near the coast and what to do when a storm is coming.

What salt air does

Salt settles on every surface near the beach and the Intracoastal. On low-grade steel it causes rust; on stainless it can leave light brown “tea staining” on the surface. Wood frames swell and rot in the humidity. The fix is mostly in the materials you choose.

Materials that last here

• Welded aluminum frame. Paradise Grills islands are built on welded aluminum, which doesn’t rust like steel studs or rot like wood.
• 304 stainless steel grills and appliances. 304 is a marine-friendly grade. It can still tea-stain in salt air, but that wipes off with a stainless cleaner.
• Stone countertops. The Italian Avellero stone tops don’t mind sun or rain.

Easy care near the coast

• Rinse stainless with fresh water and wipe it dry every few weeks, more often if you’re close to the ocean.
• Use a fitted cover between cookouts to keep salt and pollen off.
• Clean the grill grates and burners after heavy use, and follow the care steps in your owner’s manual (ask us for a copy of the owner’s manual).

When a hurricane is on the way

1. Shut off the gas at the supply, or disconnect and store the propane tank somewhere safe and upright.
2. Unplug the island and turn off its outdoor circuit if you can.
3. Take off covers, cushions, stools and anything loose. A cover can catch wind like a sail.
4. Close the grill lid, doors and drawers.
5. After the storm, check for debris, rinse off salt spray, and let everything dry before turning the gas back on.

Live near the water? Send us a photo of your patio and we’ll suggest a layout and finish that suits the spot.