Don’t put fire generating appliances on a deck. Create a grilling patio at the lower level. Rock won’t burn.

Is that wood or composite? I see they have mats to go under grills, but I’m thinking its a great way to trap in moisture, and an area that wont fade while the rest of the deck does. Same goes for outdoor carpet.

And while putting a grill on a deck isnt perfect, we’ve done it for years without an issue. There are more concerns with a grill too close to vinyl siding than on a deck. Besides, who wants to carry your food up and down the stairs from the kitchen? One trip and there goes your food.

My old deck was Trex and we had a grill on it for years. This is composite, Its Dekorators Vista. I have to think there is a mat of some kind that will breath and not trap moisture yet give some protection to the surface..

I say just enjoy your deck. What else did you get it for? Why reduce your family's fun with so much worry? Take reasonable precautions, but don't obsess over it. If it gets stained, clean it. If it gets a little heat damage or something, replace that section, or call it normal wear and tear and forget it.