AEI Corporation

Designing outdoor spaces for multifamily properties is no small task. Contractors and developers are responsible for creating environments that are functional, attractive, and built to last. From apartment complexes to condominiums and mixed use developments, outdoor amenities like patio grills and patio heaters play a major role in resident satisfaction.

At the same time, these professionals are balancing tight timelines, budgets, and multiple vendors. That is why many turn to trusted partners who can do more than just supply products. They need guidance, planning support, and reliable solutions.

This is where AEI stands out.

With decades of experience and a strong focus on customer support, AEI helps contractors and developers design better outdoor spaces with less stress. Through complimentary design services, expert recommendations, and dependable products, AEI makes planning patios with grills and heaters a much smoother process.

Why Patio Planning Matters in Multifamily Developments

Outdoor amenities are no longer optional. They are expected.

Residents today want more than just a place to live. They want spaces where they can relax, socialize, and enjoy their time at home. Well designed patios with patio grills and patio heaters help properties:

• Attract new residents
• Increase retention
• Improve overall property value
• Stay competitive in crowded markets

In our experience, properties that invest in thoughtfully designed outdoor amenities tend to see higher engagement from residents. These spaces often become central gathering points.

For developers, this means getting the design right the first time. Poor planning can lead to:

• Cold spots in heated areas
• Overcrowded or underutilized grill spaces
• Mismatched equipment for the property layout
• Costly changes after installation

That said, most of these issues can be avoided with the right planning early on.

The Challenge Contractors and Developers Face

Contractors and developers often manage multiple aspects of a project at once. Outdoor amenities are just one piece of a much larger puzzle.

Some common challenges include:

• Choosing between natural gas, propane, or electric grills
• Choosing between natural gas, propane, or electric heaters
• Determining the correct number of grills and heaters
• Understanding spacing and layout requirements
• Coordinating utility connections
• Ensuring compliance with local codes

Here is where things get tricky. These decisions are interconnected. Choosing the wrong fuel source early can limit layout options later.

In our experience, developers who involve patio experts early tend to avoid rework and delays.

AEI’s Complimentary Patio Design Services

One of the biggest reasons developers choose AEI is access to complimentary patio design services.

Instead of guessing or overbuilding, contractors can work directly with experienced patio experts who understand real world applications.

Our design team has reviewed thousands of patio layouts over the years. While every project is different, the same planning challenges come up again and again.

We help plan:

• The ideal layout for patio grills
• The correct number and placement of patio heaters
• Fuel source recommendations based on site limitations
• Equipment sizing for optimal performance

For example, most multifamily properties install anywhere from 2 to 8 grills per amenity area, depending on unit count and expected usage. Larger communities may require even more.

This kind of guidance helps eliminate uncertainty and ensures the final design works as intended.

Heat Mapping for Better Patio Heater Performance

Heat mapping is one of the most valuable tools we offer.

Heat maps are diagrams of your patio spaces with expected heat zones from patio heaters overlaid in an easy to understand visualization.In practice, heat maps solve a simple problem. Nobody wants to sit in a cold spot.

Our complimentary heat map service provides:

• A clear diagram of heater placement
• Heat coverage zones for each unit
• Identification of potential cold areas
• Confidence in overall comfort levels

In our experience, heater spacing often falls within a predictable range depending on the model and mounting height. Without a heat map, it is easy to either underheat or overspend.

This is something many developers overlook early on.

Choosing the Right Fuel Source

Not every property is the same. Location, infrastructure, and local regulations all play a role.

AEI offers grills and heaters in natural gas, propane, and electric configurations.

Natural Gas

• Continuous fuel supply
• No tank replacement
• Lower long term operating cost

Best suited for permanent installations with available gas lines.

Propane

• Flexible placement
• Ideal when gas or electric hook-ups are not available
• Works well in phased builds

Keep in mind, propane requires ongoing tank management.

Electric

Electric grills and heaters are becoming more common, especially in new developments.

• Required in some cities
• Clean and simple operation
• Great for rooftops and semi enclosed patio areas

In our experience, rooftop patios often lean toward electric patio appliances due to code restrictions.

Selecting the Best Patio Grills for Communal Spaces

Grill selection plays a big role in how residents use the space.

Cast Aluminum Grills

• Budget friendly
• Compact footprint
• Ideal for multiple unit installations

Aluminum grills are commonly installed in groups so several families can cook at the same time.

Stainless Steel Grills

• Larger and more robust
• Often used as centerpiece grills
• Ideal for premium properties

A common layout we see is 2 to 4 stainless steel grills in a central location, sometimes paired with additional smaller units nearby.

Common Patio Design Mistakes Developers Make

Over the years, we have seen a few mistakes come up consistently.

Installing Too Few Grills

This leads to congestion during peak hours. Residents end up waiting, which reduces satisfaction.

Skipping Heat Mapping

Without proper planning, patios often end up with uneven heating and unusable areas.

Choosing the Wrong Fuel Source Early

Switching fuel types later can be costly and limit design flexibility.

Not Planning for Maintenance Access

Grills and heaters need servicing over time. Tight layouts can make this difficult.

Overlooking Usage Patterns

Designing for how the space will actually be used is critical. Not all properties have the same needs.

Avoiding these mistakes can significantly improve long term performance and resident experience.

Built for Commercial Reliability

Durability matters. These products are used every day.

AEI products are designed for commercial environments.

T Series Commercial Grills Feature

• Built in automatic shutoff timers
• Laser etched instructions
• Anti theft control knobs
• Side mounted heat indicators

Commercial Heaters Feature

• Automatic safety shutoff
• Multiple control options
• Zone control capability
• Smart integration options

In our experience, these features help reduce misuse and extend product lifespan.

Access to Documentation and Planning Resources

We also support developers with:

• Owner’s manuals
• Cutout dimensions
• Installation guides
• Product brochures

Having these resources early helps teams plan more accurately and avoid delays.

The Importance of OEM Replacement Parts

Even high quality equipment needs maintenance over time.

AEI provides OEM replacement parts for both grills and heaters.

This ensures:

• Proper fit and performance
• Longer product lifespan
• Easier maintenance

This is something many developers do not think about upfront. But having OEM replacement parts available becomes very important years down the line.

A Partner, Not Just a Supplier

We understand the pressures contractors and developers face. In our experience, the most successful projects come from strong partnerships, not just transactions.

Our team focuses on being:

• Responsive
• Knowledgeable
• Easy to work with

From initial design to post installation support, we are here to help.

Real World Applications in Multifamily Properties

AEI products are used in:

• Apartment communities
• Condominiums
• Student housing
• Resorts and extended stay properties

Each space is different.

A rooftop patio may require electric heaters. A large courtyard may need multiple grill stations. A luxury property may prioritize premium finishes and controls.

There is no one size fits all solution.

Final Thoughts

Designing outdoor spaces does not have to be complicated.

With the right guidance, contractors and developers can avoid common pitfalls and create spaces that residents actually use and enjoy.

AEI provides the expertise, tools, and support needed to make that happen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many patio grills should an apartment have?

In most cases, properties install between 2 and 8 grills per amenity area. Larger communities may require more depending on unit count and usage patterns.

What is the best fuel source for patio heaters?

It depends on the property. Natural gas heaters are great for permanent installations, propane heaters offer flexibility, and electric heaters are often required for rooftops or certain city codes.

Are electric patio heaters a good option?

Yes. Electric heaters are becoming more common, especially in new developments. They are clean, efficient, ideal when gas is not available, and offer more heater control options.

Why is heat mapping important?

Heat mapping helps visualize coverage before installation. It prevents cold spots and ensures the patio is comfortable and usable.

Do commercial grills require a lot of maintenance?

All grills require some maintenance over time. Using OEM replacement parts helps extend lifespan and maintain performance.

Ready to Start Your Patio Design?

If you are planning a new multifamily project or upgrading an existing property, AEI is here to help.

Reach out to:

• Schedule a complimentary patio design consultation
• Request a custom heat map
• Explore our full line of patio grills and patio heaters

Let’s build a patio space your residents will actually use.

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