Measure the grill’s width, depth, and height with the lid closed to find a BBQ pit cover that fits securely.
For the full breakdown, see our best BBQ Pit Covers guide.
What Three Measurements Do You Need?
You need width, depth, and height — and each one has a specific rule about what counts.
Width: Run the tape across the widest left-to-right span of the grill. If your side shelves or side burner are fixed (they don’t fold down), include them. If they fold, measure them folded, since that’s the stored position a cover will sit over.
Depth: Measure front to back at the deepest point, and include handles, knobs, and other protrusions that stick out. A cover sized to the bare body will strain against a protruding handle.
Height: Measure from the ground to the highest point with the lid closed — that’s usually the dome of the lid itself.
How Do Folding Shelves and Wheels Affect the Fit?
Folding shelves and wheels are the two features that trip people up most. Fixed side shelves become part of the width. Folding shelves are measured in their folded position. And the cover should reach at least the top of the wheels — a cover that stops above the casters leaves the metal exposed to rain and rust.
Here’s the trade-off that surprises people: most guides recommend a slightly larger cover, because bigger is more forgiving.
How Do You Handle Round and Built-In Grills?
Kettle and round grills use a different measuring language. Skip the width-and-depth pair and measure the diameter across the bowl at its widest point, plus the height from the ground to the lid’s top.
Built-in grills are sized by the cart or the cutout, not the cooking surface.
One Rule That Keeps Your Grill Safe
Measurements only get you so far — habits keep the cover working.
References & Sources
- Costco. “Outdoor Grill Cover Measuring Guide.” Recommends sizing up and letting the grill cool before covering.
