Barbecue on wheels or built-in barbecue: which to choose

Introduction

When choosing between a barbecue on wheels and a built-in (brick-built) barbecue, many users – both private customers and professionals – are unsure which option is the most practical, durable and suitable for their space. At Selinger Barbacoas we make both, but experience shows us that mobile barbecues offer clear advantages in mobility, installation, maintenance and adaptability.
This article looks at the differences between the two systems in a technical and objective way, to help you make the best decision for your needs.

Barbecue on wheels or built-in barbecue: what really sets them apart?

Although both do the same job, their day-to-day behaviour is very different. The key is how they fit into the space, how they are used and how much flexibility they offer.

Barbecue on wheels (Selinger Barbacoas)

• Ready to use from day one
• Can be moved according to the weather, the wind direction or the layout of the space
• Ideal for house moves, changing terraces or living gardens
• Needs no building work, no bricklaying and no drying time
• Designed as a complete product: structure, grill, drawer, wheels and finishes in a single unit

Built-in barbecue

• A fixed, permanent solution
• Needs a bricklayer, materials and planning beforehand
• Cannot be moved in rain, wind or when use changes
• Depends on the quality of the construction for its durability
• Needs drying and curing time before it can be used

Practical advantages of a Selinger barbecue on wheels

1. Total mobility
   A mobile barbecue adapts to any situation:

• Move it to a new spot according to the wind direction
• Shelter it under cover when it rains
• Reposition it for events, gatherings or changes of layout
• Keep it indoors over winter

For rented homes, second homes or hospitality businesses, this flexibility is key.

2. Ready to use from the first minute
   Selinger barbecues arrive fully assembled or with minimal assembly.
   On site there is no need for:

• Mortar to dry
• Hoods to be installed
• Worktops to be built
• Structural adjustments

It is a handcrafted piece, welded in our workshop in Granada, ready to use as soon as it arrives.

3. Durability and controlled maintenance
   Because it is not permanently exposed to the weather, a mobile barbecue can be put under shelter, which extends its working life and reduces wear from:

• Rain
• Damp
• Frost
• Direct sun

When to choose a built-in barbecue: cases where it is still the best option

Although mobile barbecues are the most versatile solution, there are situations where a built-in barbecue is the right alternative.

1. Hard-to-reach areas
   In inner courtyards, roof terraces without a lift or spaces where a complete body cannot be brought in, the solution is to:

• Build a brick base
• Have your builder fit a Selinger grill
• Add a Selinger hood or an integral built-in body

1. Architectural integration
   When the project calls for an aesthetic fully integrated into the construction, building in lets you customise:

• Worktops
• Bench seating
• Cladding
• Auxiliary spaces

1. Hospitality projects with a fixed outdoor kitchen
   In some cases, the business needs a permanent, sturdy cooking point, and a built-in barbecue can be a valid solution.

Costs, timing and logistics: differences that matter

Barbecue on wheels

• Fixed, predictable cost
• No building work or extra tradespeople
• Fixed lead time: about 2 months for a domestic model (3 for a large, hospitality or stainless steel one), from the approved drawing and the deposit
• Ready to use on arrival

Built-in barbecue

• Variable cost depending on the bricklayer, materials and design
• Building and drying times
• Possible repairs for cracks or heat wear
• Need for specific materials that can withstand high temperatures

Technical TIP: how to build a built-in barbecue properly

If you finally opt for a built-in barbecue, it is essential that it is well built to avoid problems later. Here is a professional tip:

Selinger building TIP
To ensure stability, durability and heat resistance:

1. Structural base

• Use concrete blocks or solid brick
• Reinforce the base with welded mesh or ribbed rebar

1. Suitable mortar

• Use refractory mortar or special cement that withstands high temperatures

1. Fire chamber

• Build it with firebricks
• Avoid hollow pieces or materials that could crack

1. Hood and draught

• Make sure the flue outlet is in proportion
• Fit a Selinger hood to ensure an efficient draught

1. Drying

• Respect the curing times before lighting it for the first time

A badly built structure can develop cracks, lose draught or even break from thermal shock.

In conclusion: a solution for every need, but mobility makes the difference

Both barbecues on wheels and built-in barbecues have their place. However, for most users – private customers and professionals – the barbecue on wheels offers a more complete, flexible and efficient solution.
It adapts to the weather, the space and changes in your life, with no building work or drying times and with the handcrafted quality of Selinger Barbacoas.

If you want a barbecue that evolves with you, that you can move, protect and use from day one, the mobile option best meets today’s needs.

Recommended models on wheels

Recommended models for building in