How to Replace Grill Grates

When to Replace vs When to Clean

Most grate problems that look like they require replacement can be solved with deep cleaning. Replace only when cleaning is no longer effective.

Clean when:

• Grates are coated in baked-on grease and residue – a grill brush, pumice stone, or oven cleaner resolves this
• Surface rust is present, but the metal is structurally sound – rust removal and re-seasoning restores the grate
• Food is sticking – usually a seasoning issue, not a grate failure

Replace when:

• Grates are cracked or broken – structural failure means the grate cannot safely support food
• Warping is severe – a warped grate creates hot spots and uneven cooking that cleaning cannot fix
• Rust has eaten through the metal – surface rust is manageable, but through-rust means the structural integrity is gone
• Porcelain coating is chipping in large sections – chips end up in food and the exposed metal beneath rusts rapidly
• Grates are badly pitted – pitting creates areas where food sticks permanently regardless of seasoning

Choosing Replacement Grates

The most important factor is fit – replacement grates must be the correct size and shape for your specific grill model. Grates that don't fit correctly create gaps, uneven heat distribution, and safety issues.

• For Nexgrill models: use genuine Nexgrill replacement grates. Check nexgrill.com/parts or The Home Depot for model-specific parts. Have your model number ready – it's on the label inside the grill lid or on the back of the unit.
• Third-party grates: universal-fit grates are available, but fit is rarely exact. If genuine parts aren't available, measure your existing grates precisely (length, width, bar spacing, and overall thickness) before buying a third-party replacement.

For most Nexgrill gas grills: porcelain-coated cast iron grates are the standard replacement. They offer the heat retention of cast iron with better rust resistance than bare cast iron, and require less maintenance than seasoning raw cast iron.

How to Replace Grill Grates: Step by Step

What you need

• Replacement grates – correct model for your grill
• Grill brush or paper towels
• High smoke-point cooking oil (canola or vegetable)
• Heat-resistant gloves

Step by step

1. Make sure the grill is fully cool, and the gas is turned off before starting.
2. Remove the old grates – lift straight up and out. On most Nexgrill models, the grates sit directly on the flavouriser bars or burner covers with no fasteners.
3. With the grates removed, inspect the flavouriser bars and burner covers beneath. If they are heavily corroded or damaged, replace them too.
4. Clean the grill floor and sides – use a brush or damp cloth to remove loose debris. A clean grill floor prevents flare-ups and maintains better heat distribution.
5. Place the new grates into the grill – they should sit flat and stable with no rocking. If they rock, check that the flavouriser bars beneath are level.
6. Season new cast iron or porcelain-coated cast iron grates before the first cook (see below).

Seasoning New Cast Iron Grates

Season new cast iron or porcelain-coated cast iron grates before the first cook. This creates a non-stick surface and protects against rust.

1. Apply a thin layer of high smoke-point oil (canola or vegetable) to all surfaces of the new grates – top, bottom, and sides – using a paper towel or brush.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high (375–400°F) with the new grates in place.
3. Heat for 30 minutes with the lid closed.
4. Turn off the grill and allow to cool.
5. Repeat the oil application and heating process once more.

The grates are now seasoned and ready for cooking. After each cook, apply a thin coat of oil to the grates while still warm to maintain the seasoning layer.

Stainless steel grates do not require seasoning – preheat and cook.

Maintaining New Grates to Extend Their Life

• Brush grates clean after every cook while still hot – residue burns off more easily when the grate is warm.
• Apply a thin coat of oil after every cook to prevent rust on cast iron grates.
• Cover the grill when not in use – moisture is the primary cause of grate deterioration.
• Do not use harsh chemical cleaners on porcelain-coated grates – they damage the coating. Use a soft brush and warm water.
• Do not use metal scrapers aggressively on porcelain surfaces – scrape along the bars, not across them.

Related Guides

• How to Remove Rust from Grill Grates
• Gas Grill Troubleshooting Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what grill grates to buy?

Use the model number of your grill – it's on a label inside the lid or on the back of the unit. Check nexgrill.com/parts or The Home Depot with your model number to find genuine Nexgrill replacement grates. If buying third-party, measure your existing grates precisely: overall length, width, individual bar diameter, and bar spacing.

How often should you replace grill grates?

There is no fixed replacement interval – replace when the grates fail the inspection criteria (cracked, warped, through-rusted, or porcelain chipping in large sections). With proper care – brushing after every cook, oiling cast iron grates, and keeping the grill covered – quality cast iron or stainless steel grates last 5–10 years of regular use.

Are cast iron or stainless steel grates better?

Cast iron (or porcelain-coated cast iron) retains heat better and produces better sear marks. Stainless steel requires less maintenance – no seasoning, no rust if left exposed. For frequent grillers who maintain their equipment: cast iron. For lower-maintenance setups or coastal environments where rust is a concern: stainless steel.

Do new grill grates need to be seasoned?

Cast iron and porcelain-coated cast iron grates should be seasoned before the first cook – apply oil, heat to 375–400°F for 30 minutes, repeat once. This creates a non-stick surface and protects against rust. Stainless steel grates do not require seasoning.

Can I use any grill grates as a replacement?

No – grates must fit your specific grill model. Ill-fitting grates create gaps, uneven heat distribution, and stability issues. Use genuine Nexgrill replacement grates for your model where possible. If unavailable, measure your existing grates precisely before purchasing a third-party replacement.