Grill Grates Stainless Steel Vs Cast Iron

The fats form a protective layer on the surface.

Grill grates stainless steel vs cast iron. The intense heat of the grill can wear down these metals if they are thin or poor quality. Stainless steel does not retain heat as well as cast iron. Be careful on this last one since not all stainless steel is created equal. Cast iron grates last longer retain more heat and provide greater nonstick properties whereas stainless steel grates are better protected against rust and corrosion and are easier to clean.

Most grill bodies are made from cast aluminum sheet metal cast iron or stainless steel. Cast iron grills can be coated or can be uncoated. These coatings are a preventative measure against rust forming on cast iron. Remove the grates from the grill and preheat it to 400 or 500 degrees fahrenheit.

Cast iron grates are typically used for grilling and the fats and high heat will naturally season the iron. An uncoated cast iron grill grate absorbs oil from the food being cooked the oil being absorbed will fill the small spaces in the grill grate and give it non stick properties. Cast iron grates are able to have a large amount of heat retention. Uncoated cast iron is rough black and porous.

Stainless steel grill grates are super easy to clean and maintain which makes them perfect for cooks who prefer low maintenance kitchen and backyard tools. Usually cast iron grates will come with a porcelain or enamel coating. Cast iron grill grates vs stainless steel grill grates some people prefer stainless steel as it has the virtue of brushing clean. Typically gas grills have either cast iron porcelain coated cast iron stainless steel porcelain coated steel or just plain steel.

If your cast iron grates have rusted or are new you may need to season them more thoroughly. And check to see if stainless steel parts were used during construction. Off the grill scrub away any rusted areas with steel wool. Even people who use cast iron cookware sometimes choose stainless steel grates especially the thick flat slatted grills that look a lot like cast iron grills and some claim work as well.

Stainless steel cannot be seasoned because the chromium alloy in the metal prevents oils or fats from adhering to it and forming a seasoning layer. Grill marks for that authentic look. For durability and performance you want both the grill body and the frame to be made from stainless steel. An overall golden crust is a preferable outcome for many grill masters.

Over time a grate that worked well when you bought it can begin to produce less than desirable food. If you re struggling to choose between the two you can always purchase both types of grates for your grill or smoker. Porcelain or enamel coated cast iron grates dont require oiling.