AEI Corporation

Pedestal and Pole Mounted Patio Grills for Apartments and Resorts

Posted: August 06, 2024 at 08:15 AM

10 minute read | Grills

In the world of communal living spaces, providing amenities that enhance the experience for residents and guests is a top priority. One such amenity that has gained popularity is the outdoor patio grill. Whether in apartment complexes or resort-style properties, these grills offer a communal space for socializing and enjoying outdoor cooking. Among the various types of grills available, pedestal and pole mounted grills stand out for their durability, space efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.

Pedestal and pole mounted grills are perfect for settings where safety, space optimization, and ease of maintenance are crucial. They offer secure installation, with pole mounted grills being fixed in the ground, ensuring they remain stationary and secure. Pedestal mounted grills, on the other hand, provide additional storage options and can sometimes be portable, depending on the fuel source. This blog post will explore the features, benefits, and applications of these two types of grill mounts, helping property owners and developers make informed decisions for their outdoor spaces.

Pole Mounted Grills

Definition and Design

Pole mounted grills are designed to be installed securely into the ground. The patio grills are mounted on top of a sturdy metal pole with an optional base. This design makes them an ideal choice for outdoor settings where stability and permanence are desired. Unlike portable grills, which can be moved around, pole mounted grills are fixed installations. This characteristic makes them particularly suitable for public or shared spaces where the grill needs to be available for communal use without needing to be wheeled in place.

The pole itself is anchored firmly into the ground, usually in concrete, grass, or other material in accordance with the user manual, ensuring that the grill can withstand various weather conditions and daily use. An optional base plate can be added to enhance stability and provide a clean, finished look. This base plate not only contributes to the grill's overall aesthetics but also adds slightly to its stability.

Features and Benefits

Pole mounted grills offer several advantages, particularly in communal multifamily settings. One of the most notable features is their compatibility with cast aluminum grills. Our A-Series patio grills and T-Series cast aluminum grills are perfect for pole mounting, providing a compact, efficient cooking solution. Cast aluminum is known for its excellent heat retention and natural rust-resistance, making these grills both efficient and cost-effective. While smaller in size compared to our larger stainless steel grills, our cast aluminum grills still pack a punch, and are ideal for spaces where multiple patio grills are needed.

This minimalistic design of a pole mounted grill is especially beneficial in communal grill areas, such as those found in apartment complexes or vacation resorts. With multiple grills installed in a single area, several families or groups can cook their meals simultaneously, fostering a sense of community and shared enjoyment. The fixed nature of pole mounted grills also means they require less maintenance and oversight compared to portable options, which can be a significant advantage for property managers.

Moreover, the use of cast aluminum ensures that these grills are lightweight yet durable, resistant to rust, and easy to clean. This combination of durability and low maintenance makes pole mounted grills a practical choice for busy communal areas where grills see frequent use.

Pedestal Mounted Grills

Definition and Design

Pedestal mounts, also known as grill carts, offer a versatile grilling solution with a distinctive design. Like pole mounted grills, pedestal mounted natural gas grills are securely anchored to the ground. The pedestal mount provides both a stable base and also a small storage area. The pedestal itself is typically box or square-shaped and is large enough to function as a storage space. This storage can be used for grill accessories, cooking utensils, or, in the case of propane-powered grills, the propane fuel tank. Pedestal mounted propane grills can be portable grills with a wheel kit.

The design of pedestal mounted grills combines functionality with aesthetics. The pedestal not only supports the grill at an ergonomic height but also conceals and protects any stored items, keeping the grilling area tidy and organized. This makes pedestal grills an attractive option for outdoor areas where visual appeal is important, such as in resort settings or upscale apartment complexes.

Features and Benefits

One of the key features of pedestal mounted grills is their versatility. They are available in various configurations to accommodate different fuel types, including propane, natural gas, and electric. This versatility allows property owners to choose the most suitable option based on their specific needs and infrastructure. For instance, propane-powered pedestal grills are portable because their fuel source can be stored within the pedestal. This portability allows for easy relocation within the property, making them a flexible option for outdoor events or gatherings.

In contrast, electric and natural gas pedestal grills, while not portable due to their fixed connections to fuel or power sources, offer a continuous and consistent cooking experience. These types of grills are ideal for permanent installations where the grill remains in one location, providing reliable service without the need for frequent fuel refills.

Another advantage of pedestal mounted grills is their storage capability. The pedestal base can house various grilling accessories, such as tools, cleaning supplies, and spare parts, keeping everything conveniently accessible. This is particularly beneficial in communal settings where multiple users might need to store their grilling accessories securely.

Pedestal grills and grill carts cater to a range of grill types, including both our stainless steel and cast aluminum models. The stainless steel grills are often preferred for their durability and sleek appearance, while cast aluminum grills are appreciated for their excellent heat distribution and lightweight properties. Both materials offer excellent resistance to outdoor elements, ensuring longevity and easy maintenance.

Application in Apartments and Resorts

Common Installations

In apartment complexes and resort settings, outdoor grills are a popular amenity, offering a communal space for residents and guests to gather and enjoy cooking outdoors. These grills are commonly installed in designated areas, such as patios, pool areas, and clubhouses. The placement of these grills is strategically chosen to encourage social interaction and to provide a convenient cooking option for those who may not have private outdoor spaces.

Grill installations in these settings often feature multiple units to accommodate several users at once. This setup is particularly beneficial in larger properties, where the demand for grilling facilities can be high. By providing multiple grills, property owners ensure that all residents and guests have the opportunity to use the facilities without long waiting times.

Benefits for Properties

The inclusion of outdoor grills, whether pedestal or pole mounted, adds significant value to apartment complexes and resorts. For residents and guests, these amenities enhance the overall living experience by providing a convenient and enjoyable way to prepare meals outdoors. For property owners, offering well-maintained grilling facilities can be a key selling point, attracting prospective tenants or visitors who are looking for a full suite of amenities.

Outdoor grilling areas also serve as a focal point for community events and social gatherings. Whether it's a family barbecue, a community cookout, or a casual evening with friends, these spaces facilitate social interaction and help build a sense of community among residents. This communal aspect is particularly valuable in multi-family properties, where creating opportunities for residents to connect can improve overall satisfaction and retention rates.

Considerations for Multiple Grills

When planning the installation of multiple grills, property owners need to consider several factors, including the layout of the space, the expected number of users, and the types of grills to be installed. For instance, in high-traffic areas, it may be advantageous to install a combination of both pedestal and pole mounted grills to cater to different preferences and needs. The choice between propane, natural gas, or electric grills can also be influenced by local regulations, availability of utilities, and the desired level of maintenance.

Comparing Pole vs. Pedestal Mounted Grills

Space and Aesthetic Considerations

One of the primary differences between pole and pedestal mounted grills lies in their spatial footprint and visual impact. Pole mounted grills are designed to be as unobtrusive and minimal as possible. Their slender poles occupy minimal ground space, making them an excellent choice for areas where space is limited or needs to be optimized. This minimal design allows for multiple units to be installed in close proximity, which is particularly useful in communal areas like apartment complexes or resort patios where several families might want to grill at the same time.

Pedestal mounted grills, while they have a more substantial presence due to their boxy pedestals, still allow for multiple grills to be installed in close proximity. This is because the pedestal and pole mounts are both smaller than the grill itself. While they do occupy more ground space than pole mounted grills, it is negligible in almost all cases. Their difference comes down to desired look and the storage area, which might be required for a propane grill.

The pedestal base can be used to store propane tanks, grill accessories, or other items, helping to keep the grilling area organized. The larger size and storage capability of pedestal grills can also contribute to a more polished and cohesive look, especially in upscale settings where aesthetic considerations are paramount.

Functionality and Use Cases

Functionality is another key area where these two types of grills differ. Pole mounted grills are primarily designed for permanent installation and are typically used in settings where mobility is not a priority. This makes them ideal for fixed communal grilling stations in parks, apartment complexes, or resorts. Their robust installation ensures they remain secure and stable, which is important in public or semi-public settings where vandalism or theft could be a concern.

In contrast, pedestal mounted grills offer greater flexibility. While pedestal mounted grills can also be installed as permanent fixtures, the option to use propane as a fuel source allows for portability. This makes pedestal grills a versatile choice for properties that host outdoor events or need to frequently reconfigure outdoor spaces. The ability to move these grills around as needed provides a level of convenience and adaptability that is not possible with pole mounted grills.

Cost Efficiency

Cost is a crucial factor for property owners and developers when deciding on the type of grill to install. Generally, pole mounted grills can be more cost-effective due to their simpler design and installation process. They require fewer materials and less labor to install, particularly if they do not include additional features like base plates or extensive decorative elements.

Pedestal mounted grills are similarly cost-effective although slightly less so compared with a pole-mount. The built-in storage can reduce the need for additional infrastructure, such as separate storage units for grilling accessories. Moreover, the versatility in fuel options can also be convenient, particularly in settings where propane is more readily available or your grilling location doesn’t have access to natural gas.

Fuel Types and Portability

The type of fuel used in these grills is a significant factor in their functionality and placement. Pole mounted grills are typically connected to a fixed natural gas line, providing a continuous fuel supply without the need for refilling a fuel tank. This is ideal for permanent installations in communal areas, ensuring the grills are always ready for use.

Pedestal mounted grills offer more flexibility in fuel choices. While they can also be connected to natural gas lines, and anchored to the ground, they can also accommodate a propane grill’s fuel tank stored within the pedestal. This feature not only allows for portability but also provides an alternative fuel option in areas where natural gas lines are not available. Additionally, electric pedestal grills are an option for properties that prefer a cleaner energy source or need to install electric grills to meet local building regulations.

In conclusion, both pedestal and pole mounted grills offer unique benefits and can enhance the outdoor amenities of apartment complexes and resorts. Both mount options are an excellent choice for spaces that prioritize grill stability, minimalism, and low maintenance, making them perfect for communal grilling stations that see frequent use. Pedestal mounted grills, with their additional storage options and potential for portability, offer a more versatile solution, catering to properties that require flexibility in their outdoor configurations.

Property owners and developers should consider their specific needs, space constraints, and resident or guest preferences when selecting the type of grill to install. By carefully evaluating these factors, they can choose the most suitable grill setup that enhances the property's appeal and provides a valuable amenity for communal enjoyment.