> FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Why do I need a deck protector? When you invest thousands of dollars in a deck or patio, you do not want a three hundred dollar grill or a thirty-nine dollar fryer to damage this investment. Most manufacturers supply an aluminum or mild steel tray or cup to catch the grease and BBQ sauce related to grilling. However, they are not always checked to see when they need to be emptied or replaced and, in some cases, they are not even installed. What materials are used in the manufacturing of The “Original” Grill Pad? The patented Grill Pad product is a composition of a cement mixture and a flexible binding material. What colors and sizes are available? The “Original” Grill Pad is available in two sizes and three shapes (30” round and 30” x 42”rectangle and oval) to accommodate most outdoor appliances. Five colors are offered to enhance any outdoor room décor: Berry Black, Earth-Tone Brown, Big Green, Granite Gray and Brick Red. How do I clean my Grill Pad? Soap and water work fine when cleaning grease from the surface of The “Original” Grill Pad. Is The “Original” Grill Pad fireproof? Nothing is fireproof, and The “Original” Grill Pad is no exception. The “Original” Grill Pad is recommended for outdoor use only and is naturally heat and weather resistant. You should allow a reasonable clearance between the heating appliance and the Grill Pad on your deck or patio surface. Can I use The “Original” Grill Pad inside as a hearth pad? No. The “Original” Grill Pad is designed for outdoor use only. Which side is the top side? We texture the top side of The "Original” Grill Pad to help secure your appliance to the pad and to trap any splatter from your grill. Will The “Original” Grill Pad protect the surface of my composite deck? New composite material is coming on the market every day. We continue to test new products for compatibility with The “Original” Grill Pad, and it is compatible with many of the composite product and exotic woods we have tested. Please contact us if you have specific questions about your composite deck and the Grill Pad. How long should I wait before using the Grill Pad on my newly stained deck? We recommend at least 30 days between applying a penetrating stain and placing your “Original” Grill Pad. This gives the stain time to sink in and cure. I use my Grill Pad in the garage under an old car I am restoring. Is this a problem? Not at all. Many consumers use The “Original” Grill Pad as a grease catcher for their classic and not-so-classic vehicles. I saw my favorite college team on the Collegiate page of your website. How can I get a Grill Pad with my team logo? The Collegiate Edition of The “Original” Grill Pad is now available at participating Home Centers, Hardware Stores, Grocery Markets and many internet sites. You can scroll down the list of licensed collegiate schools, and click on your selection. You will view your team logo in the lifestyle photos on this page. We will continue to add to this page as more teams come on board. Where can I find warranty information? Click here for warranty information. After it rains, I’ve noticed there is a dark stain under my grill pad on the deck. What causes this? The “Original” Grill Pad is porous. It allows for water penetration through the Grill Pad but not grease. The watermark you see should dry within days if you either remove the Grill Pad or leave the Grill Pad in place. Do not attempt to pressure wash or apply cleansers to this watermark. It will dry to its original surface appearance. There are small cracks on the smooth side of my grill pad. Is this a problem? No. The mapping or small fissures you see on the back are a natural part of the curing process. They do not penetrate through the pad and will not cause any structural problems to the pad. Is 24” from the deck surface to the bottom of my new chiminea enough room to protect my deck? We recommend this height from any sustained heat source. Be sure to use the manufacturers recommended safety measures when installing a chiminea, gas or charcoal grill, fire-pit or fryer! Will the Grill Pad protect my deck from the greasy mess of frying a turkey every Thanksgiving? Yes. Better the grease stain on The “Original” Grill Pad than your surface area. Make sure you follow all manufacturers’ instructions for fryer safety and frying locations. You should strongly consider moving the Grill Pad to your driveway for frying with a propane fryer to keep the heat away from a wood deck or patio surface. I have a fire-pit and want to enjoy an outdoor fire on my new deck. What concerns should I have with these products and the Grill Pad? Follow all manufacturers’ recommendations and maintain a safe distance from the bottom of the fire-pit to the deck or patio surface. Click here for more information. I have seen plastic and cloth “deck protectors” at grocery stores that are cheaper than your product. What is the difference in these products? The “Original” Grill Pad is a durable (cement based) lightweight (7 – 12 pounds) true deck and patio protector. It is recommended for use under charcoal and gas grills as well as many other outdoor appliances to protect your property. The cloth deck protectors absorb grease and are limited to usage under gas appliances ONLY! Plastic will melt under very low heat and is degraded by constant exposure to the sun. The metal protectors on the market are subject to rust, and the backing will absorb moisture and facilitate deck staining. How do I contact you? Click here for contact information.