Summer is here, and that means it’s grilling season! Are you prepared for the many joys and occasional challenges of grilling when you live in an apartment complex? Our residents’ guide to grilling should help you master the art of apartment complex grilling.

Before getting started, you’ll need to know the grilling options available to you, the rules of your complex covering where you can and can’t grill, and the proper etiquette of grilling when you’re sharing prep and grill space with the other residents.

The Different Types of Grills

There are many types of grills and your enjoyment and results will depend in large part on choosing the right grill for how you like to cook and the flavors you’re looking for in your grilled food.

Indoor grills — These electric grills let you enjoy the delicious flavor and appetizing look of char-grilled food even when there’s a thunderstorm raging outside. The best indoor grills are easy to use and just as easy to clean. However, foods cooked on them may lack some of that grilled flavor you’re expecting.

Gas grills — These grills are generally fueled by portable propane tanks, although they can also be fueled by a permanent gas line. Simply turn a knob and you’re ready to grill. This makes them perfect for last minute grilling and those impatient grillers who hate waiting for coals to ash over. They also don’t produce any ash, so they’re quicker and easier to clean than charcoal grills. Gas grills at Station A can be used in designated grilling amenity spaces.

Charcoal grills — Fueled by charcoal briquets, these grills are familiar old favorites to those who like the challenge of creating the perfect amount of heat from heaps of burning coals. It’s easy to add soaked hickory, mesquite, apple, or cherry wood chips to the fire for an extra layer of delicious smoky flavor. Many people prefer the authentic ‘grilled’ flavors that come from burning embers. Utilize the designated grilling areas when grilling at an apartment. Most apartments, including Station A, do not allow for charcoal grill usage on patios.

Outdoor pizza ovens — What tastes better than a crispy, slightly charred crust supporting a load of your favorite toppings? Delivery pizzas simply can’t compare with a pizza fresh from the blistering heat of an outdoor pizza oven and eaten just a few steps away! Check out Station A’s outdoor kitchen including pizza oven!

Always Practice Grilling Safety!

Safety is a priority whenever you’re grilling, and it’s especially important when you’re surrounded by other people who may not be paying attention to what you’re doing.

Follow these suggestions for safe grilling:

• Always follow the apartment complex’s rules for grilling.
• Never, ever leave a hot grill unattended!
• Know how to use the equipment properly. If you’re unsure, ask someone to show you.
• Keep hot pads or oven mitts handy.
• Always remember to turn all the knobs on a gas grill off when you’re done using it. Dispose of charcoal ash safely in a designated container.

Know Proper Grilling Etiquette

Don’t hog the shared grills! Other people might have grilling plans, too. Be prepared to share grill space with your neighbors and never leave the community grills in a mess. Remove any residue, clean the grates, wipe down the prep areas, and throw away all of your trash. Leave the grilling area as fresh, clean, and inviting as you found it and everyone will have fun grilling!

Get to Know Your Neighbors

Grilling is a great way to meet your neighbors and make new friends. Appetizing smells wafting around the area are sure to spark comments and questions. You may even find yourself swapping grilling tips or recipes with your new-found friends! You might even want to organize a potluck so everyone can share their favorite grilling or picnic foods while you all get to know each other better.

Enjoy Station A’s Outdoor Amenities

At Station A, our outdoor amenities include an outdoor kitchen with a food prep area, grilling stations, pizza oven, picnic nooks, and ample places to enjoy al fresco dining. Not a resident yet? Contact us to schedule a tour of our wonderful apartments and exceptional amenities!