Artificial Grass vs Composite Decking: Which Is More BBQ Friendly

Summer garden updates often kick off with one big decision—what’s the best surface to enjoy your BBQs on? With outdoor cooking and garden gatherings becoming a staple across the UK, homeowners are often stuck choosing between two top contenders: artificial grass vs composite decking.

Each has a different feel underfoot, reacts to the heat in its own way, and changes how your space looks and functions. So, which one handles grill-outs, spilt sauce, and sizzling weekends better?

Heat Tolerance and Surface Temperature

So, you’re standing by the BBQ with the sun beating down—how hot’s the ground getting under your feet? That’s one of the first things people notice. Composite decking for outdoor kitchens tends to soak up more of the heat. It might look sleek, but it can get a bit much underfoot during those rare heatwaves.

Artificial grass, on the other hand, can feel cooler by comparison. While it might soften slightly in high temperatures, it usually doesn’t reach the same toe-scorching levels as decking. That said, shaded areas make a huge difference, and placing your grill somewhere that gets a breeze can help too.

When thinking about heat-resistant garden surfaces, artificial turf holds its own—but knowing where the sun hits hardest should shape your choice.

Fire Safety Considerations

Whether it’s burgers or veggie skewers on the go, fire safety really does need a moment’s thought. Artificial grass BBQ safety tips usually suggest keeping grills off the turf entirely. Why? Even top-end turf can melt or singe if it gets too close to hot coals or a falling ember.

Composite decking for outdoor kitchens isn’t immune either. While it won’t melt, some boards can scorch or warp if the heat builds up, especially if you’re using a charcoal setup or firepit.

The trick? Use a fire-resistant mat underneath the BBQ, whatever surface you go for. It’s a small touch that could stop a costly mistake. Whether it’s artificial turf fire safety tips or decking damage avoidance, placement makes a difference—and so does having a quick-hose ready nearby.

Cleaning Up After Spills and Splatters

No one plans to drop ketchup or knock over a fizzy drink—but it happens. When you’re weighing up the best surface for BBQ area fun, cleaning is something to think about. Composite decking tends to be a bit more forgiving when it comes to wiping down spills. Most have a smooth, sealed finish that shrugs off splashes with a quick rinse or mop.

Artificial grass? Well, it’s a bit like carpet for your garden. Grease can sink in if you’re not fast, though modern turf is often designed with a decent drainage layer underneath.

Anyway, quick clean-up makes a big difference, so here are a couple of tip boxes that might help:

Quick Clean Tips for Grass

• Dab, don’t rub—blot stains with paper towels first

• Use diluted washing-up liquid and a soft brush

• Rinse through with a hose from different angles

Wipe-Down Wins on Decking

• For fresh grease, try warm soapy water and a microfibre cloth

• Avoid harsh scrubbing pads—they can scratch

• Hose down in sections so the water doesn’t pool

Comfort Underfoot for Barefoot BBQs

At some point during a BBQ, the shoes usually come off. And that’s when you really notice the surface. Artificial grass feels soft, springy, and stays surprisingly comfortable underfoot, even if the sun’s been out for hours. It’s a bonus for pets and kids who want to lounge, roll, or run about without burning their toes.

Composite decking looks smart, but it’s firmer and, as mentioned earlier, can get pretty warm. Some of the newer boards aim to reduce heat build-up, but it’s still something to keep in mind if barefoot barbecuing is your thing.

Furniture and Grill Compatibility

Garden furniture and BBQ setups aren’t exactly light. So, how do these surfaces handle the weight? Composite decking is usually the more stable option—it’s flat, sturdy, and built to take the strain from chunky tables or wheeled grills without much fuss.

Artificial grass? It’s got a bit more give. That soft base can sometimes dip slightly under heavier items, especially if the ground underneath isn’t perfectly level. Sharp chair legs or BBQ wheels can leave marks over time.

If you’re placing anything heavy, consider using wide foot pads or a base protector—just to keep things looking neat for longer.

Weather Resistance and Longevity

British weather doesn’t make life easy for outdoor flooring. Composite decking is designed to take a fair beating—it resists fading, doesn’t rot, and doesn’t mind a wet winter. Some boards even come with built-in UV resistance to keep the colour from dulling.

Artificial grass holds up well too. Good-quality turf won’t fade easily and tends to shrug off rain thanks to clever drainage designs. That said, it can flatten in high-traffic spots, especially if there’s lots of movement near the BBQ.

Both options tend to outlast traditional grass or timber when properly looked after. It’s less about lifespan and more about how much maintenance you’re willing to put in.

Visual Appeal for BBQ Areas

Looks matter, especially when you're setting the scene for summer hangouts. Composite decking tends to give a neat, structured look, great for creating zones and pairing with modern garden furniture. You can mix boards for a two-tone finish or line edges with LED strip lighting.

Artificial grass leans more towards that relaxed, natural vibe. It blends well with plant beds, garden borders, and colourful pots, especially if you're going for a softer, more garden-style space.

Either way, it’s worth thinking about how your flooring ties into lighting, seating, and planters.

Drainage and Water Management

A quick hose-down or sudden downpour—either way, your BBQ space needs to drain well. Composite decking usually includes a built-in gap between boards, so water flows straight through and doesn’t pool. It’s one of the reasons decking works well for raised areas.

Artificial grass is also designed to drain, but the speed depends on what’s underneath. A proper base layer with compacted stone and sand helps shift water quickly. If done right, puddles shouldn’t be a problem.

Still, regular rinsing is good practice, especially when spills and sausages start flying around.

If you’re still unsure which surface suits your space best, feel free to contact us at Tuda Grass for expert guidance.