What should I look out for when choosing a built in braai?
1. Pick the Right Size: Choose a braai that suits the number of people you typically cater for—plus two extra. A braai that’s too small will keep you stuck cooking while guests eat. Gas braais let you cook continuously, while wood/charcoal models with ember makers allow a steady flow of hot coals for ongoing grilling.
2. Choose the Best Location: Install your braai in a spot that’s usable all year round, covered entertainment areas are ideal. Ensure proper smoke extraction via a chimney or vent, especially in enclosed spaces. Remember, a braai is both a cooking tool and a social hub.
3. Decide on Fuel Type: Gas braais are quick and easy—ideal for busy lifestyles. Wood or charcoal braais take longer to prep but offer a traditional experience. Want both? A combo braai gives you the versatility for more diverse menu options.
4. Installation Environment: Choose the material by both the property location and whether the braai will be fully enclosed, covered or exposed.
MILD STEEL / BLACK
Best suited to fully indoor or enclosed installations in dry inland areas.
430 STAINLESS STEEL
The most economical stainless option. It is generally suited to dry inland installations, including indoor, covered and outdoor applications.
304 STAINLESS STEEL
The primary choice for outdoor installations in inland towns within coastal provinces and around inland water. In an actual coastal town, 304 is a suitable lower-cost alternative to 316.
316 STAINLESS STEEL
The primary choice for an outdoor or covered braai in an actual coastal town. It is also fully suitable inland as a premium upgrade, although 430 or 304 will normally offer better value.
See our stainless steel grade and installation guide for the full location and installation comparison.
Can i Use a Built-in braai as a fireplace in winter?
Technically yes; you can light a fire in a built-in braai for warmth. However, it’s not optimally designed to heat a room like a conventional fireplace.
🔍 Key Physical Differences Between a Built-in Braai and a Fireplace
| Feature | Fireplace | Built-in Braai |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning | Low to the ground (were most cold air accumulates) | Typically installed 600–900mm above floor |
| Primary Function | Room heating | Cooking (grilling, roasting) |
| Fire Chamber Design | Deep, enclosed to radiate heat | Open-fronted to manage smoke & grill access |
| Flue & Chimney | Designed for slow, controlled smoke draw | Built for fast draw to quickly evacuate smoke |
| Materials Used | Cast iron, refractory Tiles for heat retention | Mild/stainless steel, less thermal mass |
| Heat Radiation | Maximizes radiant and convective heat | Prioritizes ventilation over heat output |
What kind of light fitting can I put inside my built-in braai?
Eurolux Oval Bulkhead – Cast Aluminum bulkhead with frosted glass and grid cover.
- Wattage: 100W
- Material: Die-Cast Aluminum
- light source: 100W E27 Incandescent
⚠️ Safety:
- Precautions: Never light your fire directly under the light fitting
- Installation: by accredited electrician
Can your Built-in Braais switch between wood and Gas for cooking?
Yes; our Combination Built-in braais are specifically designed for this purpose and consists of a wood-burning section as well a Gas Grill section next to it. this Braai unit allows you to switch between the two fuel sources or it can be used simultaneously if need be.
Is it better to braai with gas or with charcoal?
This is purely a matter of presonal preference. however if you are looking to decide which braai to purchase lets have look at some considerations:
⚖️ Quick Comparison Chart
| Feature | Wood Fire Braai | Gas Braai |
|---|---|---|
| Flavour | Smoky, traditional | Neutral (unless using wood chips) |
| Heat Time | 45min-1 Hour | Instant (5–10 minutes) |
| Temperature Control | limited | Precise & adjustable |
| Clean-up | Ash & cold embers | Minimal, easy |
| Convenience | Low | High |
| Cost | Lower upfront | Higher upfront |
| Best For | Weekends & socializing | Weeknights & fast grilling |
What is the difference between the standard and Deluxe Built-in Braais?
Standard built in braais are more of an “off the shelf” range if you will, and cannot be altered in any way. It has all the basic accessories that a braai must have but focuses more on affordability. The Deluxe & Professional range enters into the higher end of the market and offers extras like a reinforced ember maker and always includes a 304S/s Braai grid/s. it can also be modified on request; for example a Mild steel body with 304S/s Facade – Frame & doors.
Can I upgrade a 1200 or 1500 Built-in Braai to a Deluxe Spit Braai?
Absolutely, Checkout our Built-in Spit Braai options here – Click
What is the difference between 430, 304 and 316 stainless steel?
430 stainless steel is the most economical stainless option and is generally suited to dry inland installations. 304 has stronger corrosion resistance and is the primary choice for outdoor installations in inland towns within coastal provinces and around inland water. In an actual coastal town, 316 is the primary choice for an outdoor or covered braai, while 304 is a suitable lower-cost alternative. 316 is also fully suitable inland as a premium upgrade, although 430 or 304 will normally offer better value. The final recommendation depends on both the location and whether the braai is fully enclosed, covered or exposed. See our stainless steel grade and installation guide for the full comparison.
Do you deliver Built-in Braais to cities like George, Durban, or Johannesburg?
We offer free delivery on Built-in Braai and Fireplace units to all main centres in South Africa – Cape Town, Durban, Bloemfontein & Johannesburg. Some major towns like George, Pretoria & Ballito also qualify for free delivery and will be indicated during checkout.
What type of wood is best to use in my Built-in Braai?
we all have our personal preference as to which type of wood we prefer to use to produce the best results for our style of grilling. the selection of braai wood is quite vast ranging from hardwoods like sekelbos or mopanie to more regionally available variants like Rooikraans . so lets touch on some do’s and dont’s when selecting your favorite wood.
- Always Use dry, seasoned wood. The moisture content of wood directly affects the way the braai unit operates. Well seasoned dry wood (cut, split and stacked under cover for at least 12 months) will give best results and least problems.
- Wet or green wood will not burn efficiently. You will receive less heat from wet/green wood as energy is used to evaporate the moisture from the wood.
- If you hear your wood sizzle or you can see moisture bubbling from the ends of the logs placed on a hot fire, your wood is too wet.
- Never use wood of the pine family, as Pine contains a very high amount of resin.
- You may use Charcoal or briquettes in your Braai. Buy the best grade to produce more heat.
- NEVER use coal or anthracite, Always Use A Good Quality Wood Or Charcoal For Best Cooking Results.

