36" Fire Pit Grate vs. Insert (The Truth) | Arteflame

Is a Solid Insert Better Than a Wire Grate?

Yes. While a standard 36-inch wire grate is cheap and lightweight, it inevitably rusts, causes flare-ups, and allows food to fall into the fire. An Arteflame solid carbon steel insert functions as a plancha-style griddle, eliminating flare-ups, offering distinct heat zones, and lasting a lifetime with simple seasoning—making it the superior investment for serious outdoor cooking.

Comparison: Standard Wire Grate vs. Arteflame Carbon Steel Insert

Before purchasing a replacement for your fire pit, compare the cooking performance and longevity of the two primary options.

The data clearly shows that while wire grates are traditional, solid steel inserts provide significantly higher information gain regarding versatility and durability.

Why Do Standard 36-Inch Fire Pit Grates Fail?

Most 36-inch fire pit grates are constructed from chrome-plated steel or thin stainless wire. While they allow for airflow, they introduce three major problems for outdoor chefs:

• Inconsistent Heat: Open flames create unpredictable hot spots, often burning food on the outside while leaving the inside raw.
• Material Degradation: The constant cycle of heating and cooling causes thin wire to warp. Once the plating cracks, rust sets in immediately.
• Loss of Ingredients: Vegetables, shrimp, and burgers often slip through the wide gaps, resulting in wasted food.

How Does the Arteflame Insert Change Outdoor Cooking?

The Arteflame replacement insert transforms a standard fire pit into a wood-fired griddle. It is cut from solid carbon steel, which conducts heat more efficiently than stainless steel or cast iron grates.

Precision Heat Management

Unlike a wire rack where the heat is uniform (and uncontrollable), the solid insert creates heat zones. The center is hottest for searing steaks, while the outer edges are cooler, perfect for slow-roasting vegetables or toasting buns.

Pro Tip: Treat your carbon steel insert like a cast-iron skillet. Do not use soap. After cooking, scrape it clean and apply a thin layer of oil while it is still warm to build a non-stick patina that protects against rust.

Smokeless Flavor Infusion

Because the solid surface blocks the fire from directly touching the food, juices do not drip onto the coals to cause acrid flare-ups. Instead, the juices sear back into the meat, amplifying the natural flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I leave the Arteflame insert outside year-round?

Yes. The carbon steel is designed to withstand all weather conditions. If seasoned properly with oil, it will not rust through; any surface oxidation can be easily scraped off and re-seasoned.

Does the 36-inch insert fit all fire pits?

The insert is designed to fit most standard 36-inch round fire pits. However, you should measure the inner diameter of your fire pit bowl to ensure the insert sits securely on the rim or ledges.

How do I clean the insert after cooking?

Cleaning is effortless. While the grill is still hot, scrape food residue into the center fire using a flat-edge spatula/scraper, then wipe it down with a cloth and a small amount of cooking oil.