I have an 18 and it is perfect for us. For more space 2-18's or an 18 an 14 would be my choice. With two you could do a couple of different temp cooks at the same time or just have additional space when you need it. If cooking for one the 14 is a good size and will be really efficient on...
Fire on a wood deck is always iffy. I caught mine on fire once and it broke me of the habbit. When managent gets wind of the smoke they could ask you to share.:). Seriously a few sparks on a dry windy day and you could have some serious liability. Hate to rain on this parade but I wouldn't do...
Yes! And 22 inches is a lot of hot skillet! My Korean friend who is a tremendous chef laughs at me using my little wok. She cooks all her stir fry in a skillet. :)
http://www.southwestdisk.com
Jsn
I remove cooking grates, lay on cardboard in yard, spray with oven cleaner and hose off. Same with rib rack. Lastly I run 'em through the dishwasher. Shiny like new. Takes maybe 15 minutes plus DW cycle.
When I start my fire Minion or otherwise, I place the coal that seems right and then take some off. I don't usually run out of fire and it's OK to finish with a little less fire than you planned for. I am guilty of finishing in the oven on occasion. It is no big deal to me and most would...
The charcoal start looks pretty generous if you are trying to run at 225 IMO. I do spare ribs at 250 to 275 and they're usually done in about 4 1/2 hours on an 18. I leave top vent open full and about 1/3 open on bottom vents and have never used water. I don't think water is necessary and it...
You can trim and place a small object under it in the middle to "hump" it up somewhat. It will shrink a bit after a while and you can then remove the object. I use a SS bowl. Good luck!
J