I've never maintained or replaced the seal on mine in over ten years, and it still seals just fine. It's made from silicone rubber, which is extreme durability even when continuously exposed to temperatures above boiling or strong acids/bases. As used in the AeroPress where it's just sitting at room temperature indoors for 99% of the time, durability is at least 20 years.
I also use a metal filter, but just for the taste and convenience of not having to buy paper filters.
The eco-responsibility argument against filters I don't get. Unless you drink extreme amounts of coffee, you use significantly more paper in a day just going to the bathroom. I hope people aren't using metal foil for that as well. <insert seashell joke here>
My first one had to replaced after about 6 or 7 years. The plunger rubber had gotten worn down, and the internal wall of the brewing compartment had become blistered from hot water (I used 170-185F water). The new one with different materials seems to be holding up better.
I also use a metal filter, but just for the taste and convenience of not having to buy paper filters.
The eco-responsibility argument against filters I don't get. Unless you drink extreme amounts of coffee, you use significantly more paper in a day just going to the bathroom. I hope people aren't using metal foil for that as well. <insert seashell joke here>