Yes, unfortunately if you do not take the proper steps, you will ultimately ruin your griddle. The surface of the Flatrock is a cast iron cooktop. These cooktops take a lot of conditioning to stay maintained and in good working condition.  Since the Flatrock will be kept outdoors most of the time, you need to take additional precautions against rusting for example. Seasoning, conditioning, and using a grill cover will help keep you from ruining your Traeger Flatrock.