Does a Fire and Cooking Table Need to Be Covered?

12 November 2025 | Alfresco Fire Tables

Does a Fire and Cooking Table Need to Be Covered?

Do you have questions that need answers? We have the all for you here,

Does a Fire and Cooking Table Need to Be Covered?

If you’ve invested in a fire and cooking table, you most likely want to know how to take care of it so it can stay looking new and function at its best. A common question that we hear at Alfresco Fire Tables is “Does a fire and cooking table need to be covered?” The answer is yes it does need to be covered, and we’ll explain in the guide why it’s important to do so.

What is a Fire and Cooking Table?

A fire and cooking table is a dual-purpose outdoor furniture peace. You can use it as a fire for warmth or as a cooking surface. At Alfresco Fire Tables, our fire and cooking tables are powered by gas and designed for durability, looks and offering maximum performance.

If you wish to purchase a luxury fire and cooking table, please visit our website Outdoor Gas Fire Pit Tables in UK | Alfresco Fire Tables

The British Weather’s Impact on Fire and Cooking Tables

In the UK the weather can be unpredictable. This makes it important to think ahead when it comes to protecting your fire and cooking table. Let’s look at how different weather types can affect your fire and cooking table.

•Rain – If your fire and cooking table is exposed to a long period of rain and showers, it can cause wear on metal parts and surfaces. At Alfresco Fire Tables, our fire and cooking tables are made from high quality materials such as stainless steel and powder coated frames, however water pooling is still not ideal.

•Wind – The wind can cause flying debris, dust and leaves to gather on your fire and cooking table. This can cause disruptions and damages.

•Fost and Snow – The winter frost can be tough on gas connections and ignition systems on your fire and cooking table.

•Sunshine – Too much sunlight on your fire and cooking table can fade colours and damage materials over time.

By investing in a quality cover, it helps shield your fire and cooking table from these weather conditions.

Do You Really Need a Cover?

Here are the benefits of covering your fire and cooking table:

•Protection from Elements – As we have mentioned previously, the main reason to cover your fire and cooking table is protection from the weather. Your fire and cooking table can be used all year round, but it doesn’t mean that it’s invincible. Water can corrode parts over time and UV rays can degrade finishes; by adding a cover you can defend your fire and cooking table from these issues.

•Long-Term Durability – Your fire and cooking table is an investment. Regular care and protection will increase the life span of your fire and cooking table.

•Saves Cleaning Time – By covering your fire and cooking table you don’t have to scrub it down every time you want to use it. A cover keeps the surface of your fire and cooking table clean, so you can focus on entertaining or relaxing, rather than wiping away conditions caused by the outdoors, such as sticky leaves or bird droppings.

•Safety First – A cover can provide a safety barrier for your fire and cooking table when it’s not in use, in regards to children and pets.

When Should You Cover Your Fire and Cooking Table?

We recommend if your fire and cooking table is not in use, you should cover it. You can leave it uncovered for short periods of time on dry days, however as soon as you’ve finished using it for the evening, or if you know that there is going to be bad weather, you should cover it. Ideal times to cover your fire and cooking table include:

•Overnight.

•When leaving home for days.

•During long periods of wet and cold weather.

•Off season months roughly from November to March.

•After cleaning or maintenance.

What Makes a Good Fire and Cooking Table Cover?

Not all covers are made the same. It’s best to invest in a quality cover rather than a cheap one. Cheap covers can cause moisture to get trapped, airflow to be blocked and condensation to build up. A quality cover will have the following features:

•Breathable Fabric – A quality fire and cooking table cover will be made from polyester with a ventilated lining which prevents moisture from being trapped inside the cover.

•Waterproof and UV Resistant – The covers fabric should repel rain and resist UV damage. This will help to protect your fire and cooking table in wet and sunny conditions.

•Custom-Fitted – At Alfresco Fire Tables, we provide fitted covers for your fire and cooking tables. Please visit Outdoor Gas Fire Pit Tables in UK | Alfresco Fire Tables .

•Secure Fastenings – Ties, Velcro straps and elasticated edges will keep your cover in place, even in strong winds.

What Happens if You Don’t Cover Your Fire and Cooking Table?

If your fire and cooking table is uncovered over weeks and months, it can cause the following issues:

•Wear and Tear – If your fire and cooking table is not protected with a cover, the stainless steel can start showing signs of wear. Screws, bolts and ignition systems will become vulnerable.

•Cleaning is Harder – It will become harder to clean your fire and cooking table, as grease, dirt and debris will build up fast in outdoor areas.

•Looks Suffer – Your uncovered fire and cooking table will start to not look as good as it once did, with issues such as discolouration and scratches etc.

•Malfunctions – Leaving your fire and cooking table uncovered can cause gas fittings and burners to clog or corrode. This will cause bad performance issues and might even stop your fire and cooking table from functioning.

Can You Leave Your Fire and Cooking Table Out All Year Round?

Yes, you can leave your fire and cooking table out all year round, but make sure you cover it. At Alfresco Fire Tables, our fire and cooking tables are designed to be used all year round. If you wish to purchase a luxury fire and cooking table, visit our online store Outdoor Gas Fire Pit Tables in UK | Alfresco Fire Tables . Make sure to store gas bottles safely and ensure moisture doesn’t build up.

Should You Cover Your Fire and Cooking Table Right After Use?

Do not cover your fire and cooking table immediately after use. You should let your fire and cooking table cool down completely before covering it. It’s ideal to wait for at least 30 to 60 minutes. If you’re not sure, use the back of your hand to check if it has completely cooled down.

Final Thoughts

Your fire and cooking table should be covered when it’s not in use. This will ensure longevity, functionality and maintaining a luxury appearance. At Alfresco Fire Tables, we build out fire and cooking tables to last, however we still recommend covering them, this will add years to your investment.