What You Need to Know About Build-in Braais in South Africa: Cost Estimates and Considerations

🔥 Your Dream Braai: A Comprehensive Cost Guide for Built-in Braais in South Africa

The South African Entertainment Essential

There is nothing quite like the sizzle of meat on the grill and the aroma of a good braai on a sunny South African afternoon. A built-in braai isn't just an appliance; it's the heart of outdoor entertaining and a cornerstone of our lifestyle. But before you start dreaming of those perfect chops, a crucial question arises: "How much will it really cost?"

The total price of your built-in braai project is the sum of four key components: The Unit, Flue/Chimney Components, Professional Labour, and Finishing Materials.

Part 1: The Braai Unit (The Appliance)

This is the biggest expense and depends heavily on size and material. Prices below are for the unit only, based on current South African retail rates:

Unit Type	Typical Size Range	Estimated Unit Price (ZAR)	Key Features
Budget/Contractor (Mild Steel)	750mm – 1000mm	R7,500 – R12,500	Standard mild steel, suitable for basic outdoor/undercover use.
Deluxe Steel (Heavier Gauge)	1000mm – 1200mm	R12,500 – R17,500	Thicker steel, often includes a rotating cowl and better accessories.
Standard Gas Built-In	3 to 5 Burners	R9,000 – R26,000	Clean, instant heat; requires gas lines.
304 Stainless Steel	1000mm – 1200mm	R23,000 – R35,000+	Premium, highly durable, and essential for coastal areas.
Combo Unit (Wood & Gas)	1200mm+	R30,000 – R55,000+	The ultimate luxury, offering the best of both worlds.

Pro Tip: Look for bundled deals that include the cowl and some flue piping to save money upfront.

Part 2: Essential Flue and Chimney Components

If you choose a wood or charcoal braai, you must vent the smoke safely. This cost is determined by the height of your roof and the complexity of the route.

Component	Estimated Cost (ZAR)	Notes
Flue Pipe Section (1.2m length)	R1,500 – R2,500 per section	Multiple sections may be required, especially for double-storey homes.
Cowl / Chimney Top (Fixed or Rotating)	R1,200 – R3,500	The cap that sits on the roof to draw smoke and prevent rain ingress.
Insulation/Roof Flashing	R500 – R2,000	Necessary materials for safety and waterproofing where the flue passes through the roof.

Part 3: Professional Labour and Installation

Unless you are a seasoned builder, professional installation is strongly recommended for safety and compliance, especially with gas and structural work.

Installation Scenario	Estimated Labour Cost (ZAR)
Simple Insert/Replacement (Existing structure)	R3,000 – R6,000
New Standard Structure (Single-storey chimney build)	R6,000 – R12,000
Complex Build (Double-storey chimney, structural modifications, or complex gas installation)	R12,000 – R20,000+

Part 4: Finishing and Surrounding Materials

This component determines the aesthetics and functionality of your braai area. This is where you can save or splurge!

Component	Estimated Cost (ZAR)	Notes
Building Materials (Bricks, mortar, cement, plaster)	R2,000 – R6,000	For the chimney chase and surrounding walls. Varies by brick type.
Countertops (Tiled/Concrete)	R2,000 – R5,000	Cost-effective and durable work surfaces.
Countertops (Granite/Stone)	R6,000 – R18,000+	Premium finish that significantly raises the value and aesthetic.
Built-in Storage/Doors (Under braai)	R1,500 – R5,000	Doors for wood storage and accessories.

Summary: Total Project Cost Scenarios

To give you an idea of the full spectrum, here are three typical scenarios:

Scenario	Details	Estimated Total Project Cost (ZAR)
1. Budget Builder	750mm Mild Steel Unit, minimal flue, simple brickwork, tiled countertop.	R15,000 – R25,000
2. Mid-Range Deluxe	1000mm Deluxe Steel Unit, standard flue kit, professional installation, basic stone countertops.	R30,000 – R45,000
3. Premium Entertainer	1200mm Stainless Steel or Combo Unit, complex flue, custom granite countertops, built-in storage/lights.	R55,000 – R85,000+

Final Word

A built-in braai is a permanent fixture that adds significant value and appeal to your home. While the costs can feel high, the investment pays off in years of enjoyment and increased property value. Always get a detailed, itemised quote from at least two reputable suppliers to ensure you are comparing like-for-like products and services.

Here is a list of top-rated built-in braai suppliers and installers in the greater Pretoria area, based on local search results and their specializations.

A map showing the location of these businesses has been displayed above.

Company Name	Rating	Address & Contact	Specialization / Notes
Home Fires Centurion - Fireplaces and Braais	4.5 Stars	1306 South St, Centurion (Zwartkopx15)	Leading manufacturer and supplier of various braai types including Deluxe, Super Deluxe, Combo, and Gas Braais. This is the main supplier for their products in the Pretoria area.
The Installer SA	4.6 Stars	59 Garsfontein Rd, Maroelana, Pretoria	Focuses on professional installation services for braais and fireplaces across Pretoria and Johannesburg.
Braai and Fireplace Specialist	4.3 Stars	457 Vermont Cres, Faerie Glen, Pretoria	They supply and install wood-burning and gas braais, and also handle related small building work and gas installations with a certificate.
Chimbro Iron Worxs	4.9 Stars	Unit 12, Rietfontein Agricultural Holdings, Pretoria	Highly-rated company specializing in iron works, including custom-made braai units and installations.
Avalon Braai & Fireplace Warehouse	3.5 Stars	515 Jacobs St, Gezina, Pretoria	Supplier of braai units and fireplaces.

Additional Installers and Custom Options

• Local Pros: A service that connects you with vetted, local built-in braai specialists in Pretoria for full-service solutions, including consultation, custom design, and professional installation.

• Cephbet: Mentioned in general searches as a Pretoria-based company that manufactures and installs built-in braai stands and fireplaces, including all necessary components like ash pans and doors.

• Megamaster Independent Installers: While Megamaster is a supplier, they list several independent installers covering the Pretoria and Johannesburg areas, such as The Installer SA (listed above), Turbovent, and Fireplace Warehouse. These installers can be used to fit braai units purchased from Megamaster.