Stone or Iron Barbecue: Differences and Which to Choose

It's the first real decision when choosing a built-in barbecue: stone or iron? Both materials share the same core (a 3mm iron firebox, stainless steel grill, ash-collection drawer), but they behave differently on the outside.

Durability

The stone walls on our Alpes and Pyrenees models are cast as a single piece in a mould, specifically so the heat of the fire never cracks or loosens them over the years. Iron, meanwhile, is protected with black antiheat paint that prevents rust and heat damage. In practice, both materials are built to last decades with minimal care.

Look and style

This is where they really differ:

• Stone: a rustic, natural texture with a dark grey finish that suits Mediterranean or mountain-style gardens.
• Iron: a cleaner, more industrial, minimalist look with straight lines that fit modern terraces or smaller spaces better.

Maintenance

Iron needs an occasional check that the antiheat paint is still intact, especially around the fire area. Stone barely needs more than a surface clean, though it can visibly darken with soot over time.

Price

As a general rule, iron barbecues in our range are somewhat more affordable (from €1,380) than the equivalent stone models (from €1,360 without trays, up to €1,810 with two trays) — though the real difference comes more from size and trays than from the material itself. See exact figures in our price guide.

Our recommendation

If you want a rustic feel and have room for stone to take centre stage, go for Alpes or Pyrenees. If you prefer clean, modern lines, or have a smaller space, iron barbecues usually work better. Either way, both cook equally well — the difference is aesthetic, not performance.