A:Answer Yes, the coating scratches very easily! I am very careful and ONLY use wood, silicone or plastic utensils and the surface after one year is to the point where it is extremely scratched up . Frankly, the appearance is a bit embarrassing to have when guests come over & After 1 year I am considering replacing it. I only use a cloth or sponge to clean it after it’s cooled. My thoughts are that the surface is all scratched up from the salt crystals used when I am cooking, along with the hard platstic spatula’s I’ve had for years. I have switched ti only using silicone utensils, but the damage is done. It is a shame as I use the grill several times a week. I would not recommend GE stoves based on my experience. In addition to the scratched up griddle the black cast stovetop grates have taken on a white hue from the pots I use. Buyer beware…