I've definitely seen similar issues with some high-temp coatings. A few thoughts from experience:
- Surface prep is key—if the metal isn't properly cleaned and primed, even the best sealants will peel or discolor quickly.
- Check the temperature rating carefully; some products labeled "high-temp" only handle moderate heat, not sustained fire pit temps.
- Ceramic-based coatings tend to hold up better long-term than purely organic ones, even if they're eco-friendly.
You're right to be cautious...good products exist, but they're not always easy to find.
Yeah, ceramic coatings definitely seem more reliable long-term. But honestly, even with careful prep and good products, I've seen some weird discoloration pop up after a few months of regular use. Makes me wonder if some manufacturers are overstating their temp ratings a bit—or maybe it's just the nature of fire pits to beat up coatings over time...? Either way, probably worth keeping an eye on it for the first few uses.
I've noticed discoloration too, but I'm not sure it's always about overstated temp ratings. Could it be related to moisture or environmental factors? I've seen similar issues with outdoor metalwork—even high-quality coatings struggle outdoors long-term. Maybe it's just inevitable wear and tear...
Discoloration isn't always inevitable, though. I've seen fire pits that stay looking great for years with minimal signs of wear. Often it's less about moisture and more about the quality of the metal itself and how evenly it's heated. Uneven heat distribution or impurities in the metal can cause discoloration faster than environmental factors alone. Might be worth checking if the affected areas line up with heat spots rather than just exposure to weather...
"Uneven heat distribution or impurities in the metal can cause discoloration faster than environmental factors alone."
Definitely agree with this. Also worth noting that placement matters—if your pit sits on uneven ground, heat can pool unevenly, leading to weak spots over time. Seen it happen more than once...
