Smoke around the Kettle Dome?

[Jaxon]

Although I haven't been concerned about the little bit of smoke leaking out around my kettle dome, other folks on other sites have made it seem like such a big deal because they are also losing heat, etc. (will strongly resist taking shots).
I have enjoyed everything about my experience with the kettle - even the learning process. 
Just to be sure I wasn't missing something, I contacted C S at Weber and asked about this (non)issue.  I was contacted quickly by one, John Burns, who said this (and gave me permission to quote him):

http://www.weber.com/US/en/blog/is-there-smoke-escaping-from-between-your-lid-and-bowl-heres-why

He also gave me a link to his blog...if I'm allowed to, I post that link shortly.

[HighOnSmoke]

That is all well and good Jaxon unless you get a warped lid or one that is completely out of measurements. I had mine replaced by Weber as it was over an inch difference between the lid and the bowl. Must have been a manufacturing glitch. I also use a kettle gasket on my kettle as it was still leaking more than normal. A little smoke is to be expected, but not when the amount does affect your temps.

[tomcrete1]

All good stuff! I'm getting close to pulling the trigger on a Weber Performer, before I use it I'm going to use Mikes idea and put a gasket on the lid. Not sure if it's really needed but I also don't think that it will hurt either.

[Subvet]

All good stuff! I'm getting close to pulling the trigger on a Weber Performer, before I use it I'm going to use Mikes idea and put a gasket on the lid. Not sure if it's really needed but I also don't think that it will hurt either.

Good idea to go ahead and install the gasket. I had the same problem as Mike. Weber sent me a new lid. It still let too much smoke out but after installing the gasket I have just a small amount escaping.

[RAD]

I haven't done anything but use the kettle. No issues with it.

[tomcrete1]

I haven't done anything but use the kettle. No issues with it.

Most people don't have issues but I can't help but to tinker with my grills 

[RAD]

I haven't done anything but use the kettle. No issues with it.

Most people don't have issues but I can't help but to tinker with my grills 

You and Tommy are cut from the same cloth 

[Tailgating is my game]

I haven't done anything but use the kettle. No issues with it.

Most people don't have issues but I can't help but to tinker with my grills 

You and Tommy are cut from the same cloth 

OMG two of them    LOL

[1Bigg_ER]

Never bothers me. You could use binder clips to tighten the seal.

[Subvet]

Never bothers me. You could use binder clips to tighten the seal.

A lot of the new lids are shaped so a binder clip won't stay put. Mine included.

[tomcrete1]

Never bothers me. You could use binder clips to tighten the seal.

A lot of the new lids are shaped so a binder clip won't stay put. Mine included.

Yup they are kinda angled so the clips could slide off.  Good Observation!