Seasoning Your Fire Grill

Seasoning isn’t just for cast-iron cookware—it’s also key to protecting and preserving your fire grill’s exterior. Unlike coated metal grills, raw steel fire grills need a layer of oil baked into the surface to prevent rust and develop a tough, natural patina that lasts for years.

Your Grilling Gear UK fire grill comes pre-coated with canola oil, meaning it’s ready to go straight away. But for ongoing maintenance, reapplying canola oil or other high-smoke-point cooking oils will help keep it in top condition. Let’s dive into the best way to season your grill’s outer surface for long-term durability.

Why Seasoning Matters

Without a protective coating, raw steel can be affected by moisture and oxidation over time. By regularly applying oil, you create a seasoned barrier that:

✔ Prevents rust and corrosion from exposure to the elements.

✔ Builds a durable, aged patina that improves with time.

✔ Enhances heat resistance, extending the grill’s lifespan.

Best Oils for Seasoning Your Grill’s Exterior

Your grill comes pre-coated with canola oil, which remains a great option for ongoing maintenance. However, you can also use other high-smoke-point oils such as:

Rapeseed oil - 190–232°C

Grapeseed oil - 198–215°C

Flaxseed oil - 107°C

All these oils provide excellent heat bonding properties to strengthen the seasoning process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Seasoning Your Grill

1. Apply a Fresh Oil Coat

Even though your grill is pre-seasoned, reapplying oil enhances protection. Use a Lint free cloth cloth or paper towel to spread a thin, even layer of canola oil or another preferred high-smoke-point oil across the outer surfaces of the grill.

2. Fire It Up

Once oiled, Light a full chimney starter full of coals, spread evenly across the bottom of  your grill, add 3 oak splits and let it heat to 200–250°C for at least an hour. The oil will begin to bond with the metal, reinforcing the protective layer and starting to build a seasoned patina.

(Use this time to also season your grill grates, see our guide)

3. Cool Down & Repeat

After the first heat cycle, let the grill cool down. For maximum durability, repeat the process one or two more times, applying fresh oil before each heating cycle. This can be achieved while you're grilling also.

Ongoing Grill Maintenance Tips

- Reapply oil periodically, especially after exposure to rain or moisture.

- If rust appears, simply wipe the affected area with oil and heat the grill again to bake it in.

- Let the grill naturally develop its patina—it won’t affect durability and gives a seasoned, rugged look over time.

- Keep undercover when not in use and use our waterproof cover provided.

With regular oiling and seasoning, your fire grill’s exterior will remain weather-resistant, durable, and beautifully aged, ready for years of outdoor grilling perfection.