This review details my experience replacing a broken green rock grill grate with the Expert Grill Adjustable Cast Iron Grate. After a mishap rendered my trusty six-year-old grate unusable, I embarked on a search for a cost-effective replacement. While initially considering a more expensive option at Home Depot, I ultimately opted for the Expert Grill grate, a significantly cheaper alternative found at Walmart for $14.95. This review will explore the pros and cons of this budget-friendly replacement, focusing on its adjustability, weight, installation, and overall value compared to the higher-priced alternatives.The Expert Grill grate's surprising heft and lack of included instructions set the stage for the installation process. While its adjustability—expanding from 8 to 20 inches—proved a key selling point, a slight discrepancy in initial measurements led to a smaller-than-expected grilling surface. This review will delve into the impact of this size difference on functionality and ultimately assess whether the significant cost savings outweigh this minor drawback, making the Expert Grill grate a worthy investment for budget-conscious grill owners.
Pros And Cons
- Cost-effective ($14.95)
- Adjustable width (up to 20 inches)
- Smaller than expected (2 inches less cooking space than original)
- No instructions included
Read more: Nexgrill Revelry 4 Grill: A Comprehensive Review and Walkthrough
The Broken Grate and the Search for a Replacement
My beloved green rock grill grate, a six-year companion, met an untimely end. A careless drop resulted in a shattered grate, leaving me with unusable pieces. Dejected, I began the hunt for a suitable replacement.
Initially, I considered a Home Depot replacement, priced at around $30. However, a stroke of luck led me to a Walmart find – the Expert Grill Adjustable Cast Iron Grate, available for a significantly cheaper $14.95.
Unboxing and Initial Impressions
The Expert Grill grate arrived heavier than expected, possibly around 15 pounds. The packaging offered no instructions, a minor inconvenience.
The grate boasts adjustability, expanding from 8 inches to a maximum of 20 inches, a feature essential for adapting to various grill sizes. Initial measurements indicated the grate's width was indeed 8 inches.
Installation and Measurement Discrepancy
I discovered a slight discrepancy during installation. My initial measurements were incorrect; the grate’s actual width was slightly smaller than expected, resulting in a slightly larger gap between the grate's sides than what my old grate provided.
This resulted in a loss of about two inches of grilling space, a minor setback given the grate's affordability.
Final Thoughts and Verdict
Despite the minor size difference, the Expert Grill replacement grate remains a worthwhile purchase, significantly cheaper than a completely new grill. Its adjustability is a valuable feature, and its durability will be tested over time.
While the reduced grilling space is a compromise, the cost savings make this an excellent budget-friendly alternative. It's ideal for those seeking an affordable replacement grate without the significant expense of a new grill.
