Char-broil firepit for free I got needs screens

[howufiga]

I know this isn't a smoker, but I was hoping someone could give me some pointers.

So my friend gave me a nice Char-broil firepit for free. One problem with it is it's a little rusty and the screens are burnt out. I want to spruce it up so I was thinking of sanding it down where the rust is and painting it with 1000 degree black high temp paint. Now I checked for replacement screens and it would cost me $70 without shipping for the screens. This thing new is like $100 or $120 at Lowes or something like that. I'm just going off memory. Anyways, any ideas on some cheap screens for this? Here are some pics. Any suggestions would be appreciated.









One good screen!

 

[billbo]

Could you use 3/4 expanded metal? You can find that at Lowes or HD.

 

[travcoman45]

I'd use some 1/2 expanded fer that, ya got a weldin/steel shop in yer area? I can buy 4 x 8 sheets fer 42 bucks.

 

[billbo]

Good call Tip, 1/2 is probably better to keep the embers at bay.

 

[howufiga]

I'll see if I can find one nearby. I was thinking expanded metal, but it's expensive at the Home Depot. They just started carrying it out by me. thanks!

 

[howufiga]

Good advice! I called a local shop and they told me they would sell me 1/2 expanded for $2 a square foot!