I agree with you on that for the most part. I've had the opportunity to examine and compare various grills around the same age here in northern Illinois. It seems to me that the best thing covering does is prevent paint fading. I have noticed more rust on certain parts of a covered grill vs. uncovered. Keeping it in the garage during winter is probably best practice where I live.I no longer use a grill cover. I believe the cover traps moisture which rusted my Genesis Gold B.