An outdoor firepit is an excellent way to enjoy the backyard in the chillier months. The fire pit can be enjoyed in other seasons besides summer; it is a great spot for roasting hot dogs and marshmallows, interacting with companions, or sharing spooky stories. It would be really dull to be in a circle on your patio without a fire. Everyone would quickly lose interest and walk away. A fire pit brings a sense of coziness, encourages conversations, sparks enthusiasm, and can have a hypnotic effect once you begin to watch it.

This guide will give you in-depth knowledge on all the varieties of available items, teach you the right way to handle it, explain the green standards you must meet, and even more. You will quickly discover that a fire pit is more than merely a cavity in the earth.

This guide will kick off by providing an overview of the different varieties of backyard fire pit that can be purchased.

1. Fire Pit

A fire pit is a timeless addition to any residence, and they come in a wide array of sizes and shapes. You may have something as simple as setting up a home-made fire pit in the periphery of your yard or something more luxurious like a full stone fireplace. The best thing about assembling something yourself is that you can craft it into whatever shape or size you desire. If you possess a vast open area, you can create a large fire pit to accommodate a larger group of people. You can quickly put chairs and tables around the fire pit to create a personalized seating area. Alternatively, if you have a limited area, you can make your fire pit more intimate so that it becomes a comfortable retreat for a small number of people.

There is a wide variety of materials to select from when building a fire pit. The cost will depend on the type of material used. Of course, the higher-end material will be more expensive. We encounter the most common substances of stone, brick, concrete, stainless steel, and cast iron. These metals are capable of tolerating high temperatures and are also resistant to rust! Wood is generally the fuel of choice for standard fire pits, yet other options exist such as propane, natural gas, and charcoal. An alternate option you might consider is a completely electric fire pit! Using that decision takes away some of the appeal of a real campfire.

2. Fire Columns

Rather than the typical fire pit, fire columns offer a unique twist on a traditional outdoor decoration. Rather than using a fire pit, fire columns usually rely on propane or natural gas for their fuel source. A wood burning fire column is not very practical. Fire columns can be viewed as an ideal example of focal pieces. These items have an unusual look that attracts your attention right away. The amount of different styles is great too! Examples exist that range from contemporary to traditional, and all points between.

Fire pillars tend to be relatively slender, making them ideal for smaller outdoor areas or back yards. I’m sure you’ve seen something similar at outdoor restaurants. Fire columns are often constructed with a stone, wooden, or metallic exterior and a metallic interior. S’mores are not typically prepared using fire columns, so they are not the best option. Propane and marshmallows aren’t super tasty together. Apart from that detrimental aspect, we are fond of fire columns because of their distinctive and stylish look.

3. Fire Bowl

The fire bowl is like a fire pit in many ways but is more mobile than the latter. This is perfect for those who are renting from a landlord. The main problem is that fire pits tend to be permanent fixtures in backyards. If your landlord discourages excessive alteration of your garden, a fire bowl is an ideal alternative! Fire features can be found in a variety of styles.

Another great feature of the fire bowl is its portability which makes it easier to put away during inclement weather. This will ensure that it has a long life. Most fire bowls are fueled by natural gas or propane. We suggest supervising wood burning stoves closely. It might be wise to put a screen around a wood burning fire bowl in order to stop any stray sparks or embers flying away. You don’t want to be the one whose house catches fire and causes a disruption for the neighbors.

4. Fire Tables

It’s too bad that fire tables are not as common as other fire-related items, because they are really awesome! Fire tables are form and function wrapped into one. The blaze offers heat and the tabletop is great for propping up your legs or placing drinks. There is an incredible selection of fashions to pick from, thus guaranteeing that you will locate a table that will match your patio’s design.

Gas or propane are usually the fuel sources for fire tables. A wood burning fire table can be a bit tricky, and is quite a commitment. It could take away from the calming atmosphere of sitting by a fire. The fire table is movable and not hard to transfer, just like the fire bowl and pillar. If you have a limited area in your patio, the fire table is a great option as it is lightweight and can be quickly put away. In an earlier blog post focused on saving space, we pointed out that it would be ideal to search for outdoor furniture with two functionalities. The fire table exceeds expectations for double duty as it serves not only as a functional piece but also a captivating centerpiece for your outdoor space.

5. Chiminea

A Chiminea is becoming more and more trendy, and it’s an awesome little flame feature. The word “chimenea” is of Spanish origin and is commonly seen in areas of Mexico and the southwestern United States. Typically, chimineas were created out of baked clay and were utilized for culinary purposes as well as for providing warmth inside a dwelling. Nowadays, chimineas are made of up-to-date materials, yet the fundamental idea remains unchanged. The lengthy tube transports the smoke skywards and the warmth originates from the front.

We have all congregated around a bonfire, wishing that the smoke would be blown away from us. Using the chiminea means you don’t have to put up with smoke in your eyes again! These fire features are amongst the most secure options, due to the fact that they are surrounded. I really enjoy the fact that many chimineas are powered by wood fuel. Wood burning fireplaces are more desirable than those driven by gas or propane.

Before You Buy a Fire Pit

You are looking to obtain a fire pit for your garden or patio. Investigate before you buy the correct fire pit. Consider the placement of the barbeque, the kind of barbeque that you want, whether it should be an installed appliance or one that can be moved around, and the amount of money that you can spend. A fire pit can offer hours of pleasure if it meets your needs or desired look. Fire pits are wonderful locations for people to assemble and take pleasure in a romantic night.

Buying Considerations for a Fire Pit

Style

If you’re not just looking to dig a hole for a luau, a fire pit can become a spotlight in your outdoor area. There is a variety of options for fire pits, ranging from the simple metal fire bowl to more intricate models that have multiple levels and can hold a cool drink.

Possible alternatives involve squared designs that look like low tables, with enough space to place a cup or plate on top.

Wood-Burning Laws

It is not permissible to set up wood-burning fire pits on outdoor balconies or verandas, nor is it advised to have them in areas with low tree limbs, or in windy conditions.

See what kind of rules your homeowner’s association, city, or county have regarding having fire pits, fireplaces, or using burning wood outside. Some regions impose fines for violations. In addition to abiding by safety and property regulations, a municipality may have stipulations regarding wood-burning or campfire pits for those who are under the age of 18.

Scientists and environmental agencies are attempting to educate the public on the risks of breathing in smoke from wood-burning fireplaces and fire pits. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Southern California’s South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) have created special initiatives, such as Burn Wise and Healthy Hearths, to educate people about the effects of wood-burning fires and encourage individuals to reduce air pollution.

Types of Fuel

If the cozy aesthetic of a crackling fire and lingering scent appeals to you, then wood could be an ideal option. Be sure your fire pit is sizable enough for logs that measure 24 inches on average.

Pits that use propane or natural gas are suitable for aporches with an overhead roof, and they tend to be much tidier. There is no need to worry about stray wood, ashes, smoke, and other messes.

Materials

When selecting a fire bowl, go for something that will endure and expand the life of your fire pit. Aluminum when cast is less likely to experience rusting, whereas copper can cause markings and discoloration. Cast iron is a solid but heavy choice.

Permanent or Portable?

It is possible to create a fire pit that is tailored to both your location, budget, and the kind of materials you would like to use. Additionally, you can opt for either a stationary one that is installed in your yard or a model that is portable and can be transferred wherever you would like to go.

Location, Location, Location

Examine what the laws say about the placement of a fireplace or fire pit, as well as “recreational” fires. The regulations surrounding code will determine where your backyard pit can be located and will affect the means by which you use your exterior fire feature.

The HPBA strongly advises that fire pits should not be placed in indoor areas, which makes perfect sense. Do not place the pit on a wooden deck, near your house or any other structure, within the lawn, in the shade of an overhang, or in any environment with a potential for rapid spread of fire.

How to Choose a Fire Pit

If you are looking for a fire pit, there are many varieties you can choose from when you go shopping. Look for an item that matches your preferences, is within your financial means, will fit in the area you have available, and is able to do what it is intended to do. Begin determining what will be effective for you by inquiring yourself some inquiries.

How Will You Use Your Fire Pit?

Figuring out how you want to use your fire pit is a great way to recognize what is best suited for your needs. Will it be used on an enclosed patio? Will this be employed in the garden or by the swimming pool? Are you going to utilize it frequently or just occasionally? The information from these queries can help in selecting the suitable size, model, and fuel type for a fire pit.

Who Will Be Using It Most?

Are you planning to use your fire pit with a lot of people or just the two of you? It might only be used for a small family to appreciate and talk around. Do you have little kids? Does anyone in the family have an issue with wood smoke? If someone has an allergy to or is bothered by the scent of wood, a propane or natural gas burning firepit would be the most suitable option.

How Long Do You Plan to Stay Where You Are?

Constructing a massive campfire pit in the ground may not be the optimum choice if you anticipate staying at your current home for a limited amount of time. A more practical option could be to opt for a transportable fire pit that can be taken with you wherever you move.

Where to Shop

You can purchase a fire pit from various locations. The choices for where to purchase home goods are plentiful, ranging from big-box stores, and supermarkets to your local hardware store and websites. Consider the size and design of the space you want to use for the fire pit as it will help guide you in your search. Shop in the retail outlets, so that you can not only observe their appearances, but also check out the craftsmanship. Choose a few items and do not be afraid to query the staff at the store, and be prepared to examine prices of the same items online and in-store for the greatest bargain.

Safety Tips:

When handling fire, it is essential to take extreme caution! A terrible burn can completely ruin an otherwise pleasant evening. We stumbled upon a terrific set of precautions from FireSafeKid.org that are worth noting. This information applies to both campfires and fire pits.

  • Scrape away grass and needles within a diameter of ten feet.
  • Build your campfire or cooking fire downwind.
  • Have water nearby before building a campfire.
  • Never use a flammable liquid (especially gasoline) to start a fire or hot coals.
  • Adults should always supervise children around fires; never leave a fire unattended!
  • While using campfires and grills, wear snug-fitting, tightly-woven, or short-sleeved garments;
  • Avoid sandals or open-toed shoes while cooking.
  • Make certain that everyone knows how to put out a clothing fire: “STOP, DROP and ROLL!”
  • An extinguisher of some type (shovel, bucket of water or fire extinguisher), is an important tool to have on hand.
Jonathan
Author: Jonathan