Cast Iron

• Cast iron is heavy, durable, distributes heat evenly and retains it for a long time, according to BarbecueTricks.com. Once it's hot, it will cook food quickly. However, regular cleaning and periodic seasoning, which consists of wiping the surface with oil and heating it gently, is necessary to keep food from sticking and prevent the metal from rusting.

Porcelain Enamel Coating

• Some manufacturers coat cast iron with a porcelain enamel coating, which does not require seasoning. As long as it is not damaged, it preserves the durability and heating qualities of cast iron. Care must be taken in handling the grill to protect the porcelain.

Care and Cleaning

• A cast iron grill with a porcelain enamel coating is easier to clean and protects the metal from rusting. Softer, brass bristles work better than hard metal scrapers for cleaning. Still, an uncoated cast iron grill that is properly maintained will last many, many years.