What Size Built-In Grill Do You Need? 32", 36", 42", or 54"? (Houston Outdoor Kitchen Guide)
Introduction
One of the most common questions homeowners, designers, and builders ask when planning an outdoor kitchen in Houston is:
“What size grill do I actually need?”
Choosing between a 32", 36", 42", or 54" built-in grill affects everything — layout, storage, ventilation, cutouts, and how comfortably you can cook for your family or guests.
This guide gives you a clear, educational breakdown of grill sizing based on how you cook, how many people you serve, and the typical outdoor kitchen layouts we see across Greater Houston, including River Oaks, Memorial, The Heights, Katy, Sugar Land, and The Woodlands.
Why Grill Size Matters
Before choosing a brand, fuel type, or features, grill size determines:
• Cooking capacity
• Heat distribution
• Whether accessories (side burners, power burners, griddles) fit
• Space left for refrigeration, sinks, and cabinetry
• Cutout requirements and countertop depth
• Overall balance and flow of the outdoor kitchen
A grill that’s too small feels limiting.
A grill that’s too large can overcrowd your island.
The goal is: Just the right amount of grill for the way you cook.
32" Built-In Grills (Standard Size)
Best for: Small patios, everyday family grilling, starter outdoor kitchens
Example brands/models: Blaze 32", Fire Magic 30", RCS 32"
Ideal for:
• 2–4 people
• Homeowners who grill weekly, not daily
• Smaller island layouts or compact Houston backyards
• Adding a separate side burner instead of a larger grill
Pros
• Fits almost any outdoor kitchen design
• More affordable
• Easier installation and ventilation
• Ideal for smaller patio kitchens in The Heights, Oak Forest, and Garden Oaks
Cons
• Limited cooking zones
• Might feel restrictive for entertaining
36" Built-In Grills (Most Popular Size in Houston)
Best for: Families, entertainers, and balanced outdoor kitchen layouts
Example brands/models: Blaze 4LTE Pro, Alfresco ALXE36, Twin Eagles 36"
Ideal for:
• 4–8 people
• Weekly grilling + occasional parties
• Balanced layouts with storage + refrigeration + sink
Pros
• Perfect middle-ground
• Large enough for multiple cooking zones
• Works in almost any suburban Houston backyard
Cons
• Might be too small for heavy entertainers
42" Built-In Grills (Premium Entertainer Size)
Best for: Frequent hosting, large families, high-end outdoor kitchens
Popular in: River Oaks, Memorial, Tanglewood, The Woodlands, Sugar Land
Ideal for:
• 6–12 people
• Hosting events, parties, holidays
• Cooking multiple proteins + sides at once
• Pairing with a power burner or griddle
Pros
• Tons of cooking space
• Better heat zoning
• Looks balanced in larger islands
Cons
• Requires more cabinetry + ventilation
• Higher cost
54" Built-In Grills (Estate-Level)
Best for: Luxury outdoor kitchens, high-volume cooking, chefs & entertainers
Example brands/models: Fire Magic E1060, Alfresco 56"
Ideal for:
• 10+ people
• Full-service backyard kitchens
• Homeowners who entertain constantly or cook professionally at home
Pros
• Maximum capacity
• Multiple heat zones and advanced accessories
• Makes a statement in luxury homes
Cons
• Deep, wide cutout requirements
• Needs a large island to look proportional
• Higher gas demand and ventilation requirements
Simple Grill Size Decision Chart
Choose a 32" Grill if…
• You cook for small groups
• You have a compact outdoor area
• Budget and space are your priorities
Choose a 36" Grill if…
• You want the best overall balance
• You cook for 4–8 people
• You want strong performance without overwhelming the island
Choose a 42" Grill if…
• You entertain regularly
• You want multiple heat zones
• You’re building a luxury outdoor kitchen with premium finishes
Choose a 54" Grill if…
• You’re building an estate-level outdoor kitchen
• Cooking is part of your lifestyle
• You host large parties or events
Houston Climate Considerations
Because of heat and humidity, Houston outdoor kitchens benefit from:
• 304 stainless construction (for corrosion resistance)
• Larger hoods for airflow
• Vent panels under grill cabinets
• Proper spacing to avoid heat traps on covered patios
Oversizing slightly is normal in Houston — our clients often choose 36" or 42" even for mid-sized patios.
Final Thoughts
Your grill size should be based on how you cook, how often you entertain, and how your outdoor kitchen is designed. If you’re unsure, our team can review your layout, measure cutouts, and recommend the right size and brand for your home.
Request Pricing or Visit the Houston Showroom
• Website: https://www.bbqgrillstore.com
• Request grill sizing help: https://www.bbqgrillstore.com/contact
• Call: 713-688-0372
• Showroom: 4618 Randwick Dr., Houston, TX 77092
• Contact: Stephen Barnes | NorwestAppliance@aol.com