Your new firegrate is made of Cast Iron. This material when in contact with moisture, i.e. rain, dew or water spray will show signs of rusting. Although in the first instance rusting or corrosion will apply to the surface only, visually it is unappealing.
To assist in preserving the new look until the first fire, your firegrate has been prepared by applying a Hi-Temperature black paint. Suggestion After fitting your new grate spray with Soft Seal to assist with preserving the new look until the first fire.
The surface is slightly oily from the Soft Seal application. After the first fire and subsequent fires when the firegrate is COLD and after cleaning, apply further coats of Soft Seal to assist in preventing the surface corrosion. The Soft Seal coating will burn off with the next fire.
Application of the Soft Seal protection
Following the application instructions on the can of Soft Seal.
CAUTION
As there will be over spray, either spray the firegrate with the Soft Seal in the fireplace after removing all the ash and dust or in a position with newspaper beneath the firegrate to receive the over spray.
Hints
After spraying the firegrate with Soft Seal either
Cover to prevent moisture contact or
Remove indoors
Remove the firegrate indoors when there is long periods between use.
WARNING DO NOT apply Soft Seal to any FOOD COOKING SURFACE.