The Ultimate Guide to Buying Fire Pits: All You Need to Know

Chilly breeze, flickering flames, and the company of close people. Nothing compares to the joy of spending evenings with loved ones around a fire pit. Choosing the right fire pit lets you enjoy the essence of outdoor living from the comfort of your backyard and enriches your experience, whether you're conducting evening parties or enjoying family time. However, as you search for that perfect fire pit, you may feel overwhelmed by the available options and think about where to begin.

This article will explain the basics of fire pits, the types, fire pit ideas, safety tips, and more.

Table of Contents

Fire Pit Types Based On Fuel Type

Different Types of Fire Pit Based On Design

What Materials Fire Pits Are Made Of?

Fire Pit Fuels

Understanding Fire Pit Shapes

Portable Vs. Permanent Fire Pits: Which is the Best Choice?

How to Choose the Best Fire Pit: Factors to Consider

Interesting Fire Pit Ideas For Your Backyard

Safety First: Essential Checklist

Fire Pit Types Based On Fuel Type

Wood Burning Fire Pits

Classy and rustic, these conventional fire pits replicate the authentic feel of camp fires. Compared to modern fire pits, they are easy to install and use real logs as fuel. Wood fire pits are the finest option when you need maximum heat, as they can produce more extensive fire than the gas fire pit.

Pros:

• Wood burning fire pits produce a warm, natural flame
• Compared to gas or propane solutions, they usually need a more straight-forward installation process.
• Wood burning pits allow you to cook food over the flames

Cons:

• The smoke from the pit can be a challenge for some and you may have to discard the ashes from the pit every time after use.
• Storing the wood needed may not be easy if you have a compact storage space.
• It might be difficult to control or even put out the flames from the wood burning fire pits at times.

Propane Fire Pits

So you’re planning to make your evenings in your backyard warmer, but cannot deal with the ashes and smoke from wood. A propane gas fire pit would be the best solution in such a situation. Since electric propane fire pits are pre-installed inside a ceramic bowl, they conceal all signs of smoke and flames, making it a go-to choice at any season without worrying about damaging your landscape.

Pros: 

• Propane gas fire pits are portable and allow you to carry it anywhere around your yard space.
• Unlike wood burning pits, they offer flame control, allowing you to adjust the flames as per your convenience and weather.
• Propane gas fire pits produce comparatively minimal ash and smoke.

Cons: 

• They can be costlier than natural gas
• Fuel storage could be a challenge as you have to periodically replace the propane tanks. 

Gel Fuel Fire Pits

These are pits that run on special alcohol gel fuel. They are available in different sizes and forms and can be placed outside in the backyard or indoors. Though the gel fuel is usually created using isopropyl alcohol, organic materials are also used to create that natural crackling effect. 

Pros: 

• They are easy to use
• They are eco-friendly and doesn’t cause any harm to the health
• Gel fuel hardly produces smoke 

Cons: 

• The size of the flames that they create cannot be adjusted
• They are expensive compared to traditional fuels
• Some of the gel fuels require special storage 

Natural Gas Fire Pits

Natural Gas fire pits, unlike other pits, require a continuous natural gas line connection to operate. These smokeless fire pits feature a switch that you can flip to turn them on or off. Natural gas fire pits can be expensive, but once installed, they need limited maintenance.

Pros: 

• Natural gas fire pits are easy to use.
• They provide you no hassles as they won’t produce any ashes or smoke.
• The size and intensity of flames can be controlled. 

Cons: 

• Initial installation cost could be expensive
• A permanent gas line is a must

Different Types of Fire Pit Based On Design

Fire pits can also be divided into different types based on their look, or constructed style. Some of them are listed below.

Traditional fire pits:

They are built to manage flames and are available in a wide range of designs, sizes, and materials. They can be installed beneath the ground or can be placed above it.

Fire Bowls:

These are movable fire pits that feature legs. They can be elevated off the ground or set right on it.

Fire pit table:

This design blends the functionality of an outdoor table with a fire pit in the center, thus, making it a flexible choice for backyard gatherings.

Pagodas:

Pagodas are fire pits designed to resemble Asian pagodas. They are designed to enclose the flames within them.

Columns:

They are designed in a column shape, with space for a fire at the top. They resemble fire bowls.

What Materials Fire Pits Are Made Of?

One of the most crucial factors to consider before buying a fire pit is the material it is made of. Choosing a fire pit constructed from high quality, sturdy material can guarantee longevity. Some of the common fire pit materials are listed below.

Steel

Steel is a material that can be heated and molded into any shape you want, making it one of the most practical choices for making fire pits. Stainless steel is rust-resistant and can withstand all weather. However, these pits can be more expensive due to their superior quality and longevity.

Concrete

Concrete fire pits are highly durable and aesthetically appealing. They can stand the test of time and won't peel off quickly. Liquid propane and natural gas fuel systems work best with concrete fire pits. Concrete fire pits should not be installed on raised spaces as they're comparatively heavier. Having said that, lighter varieties are also available in the market.

Natural Stone

Natural stone is one of the prime choices for constructing a permanent fire pit. It is highly durable and offers a naturally patterned finish. Wood-burning and gas stone pits are the most popular varieties. Additionally, natural stone ages beautifully, and over time, it acquires an alluring tone that enhances the home's attractiveness.

Fire Pit Fuels

Different types of fuels have distinct burning times. Having a basic idea about this will help you choose the fuel wisely. Below is a table that includes the types of fuel used in fire pits and their burning times.

Understanding Fire Pit Shapes

When purchasing a fire pit, you have a staggering number of alternatives to choose from. Having a clear understanding of the various fire pit designs can help you organize the ideal home. Below are some commonly found fire pit shapes.

1. Round Fire Pits 

A classic option that gives any outdoor space a warm and welcoming ambiance. Thanks to their symmetrical form, round fire pits provide a focal point for meetings and socializing. These pits are incredibly adaptable and are available in various sizes and materials such as concrete, metal, stone, etc. Round fire pits are well-suited for compact spaces or places with curved seating configurations.

2. Rectangular Fire Pits 

Rectangular fire pits are a great choice for those who love a sleek, contemporary look. Their straight lines and extended design give outdoor areas a modern look. These pits are perfect for bigger spaces as they can accommodate extra chairs.

3. Square Fire Pits 

A square fire pit's finest feature is its symmetrical, balanced look. They are highly adaptable and suitable for a range of architectural styles. Square fire pits are perfect for both larger seating areas or smaller spaces. Their shape and well-defined corners offer an aesthetically beautiful and peaceful look to your home.

Portable Vs. Permanent Fire Pits: Which is the Best Choice?

The fire pits can be divided into two broad categories: permanent and portable. Portable fire pits are available in different varieties and are known for mobility. On the other hand, permanent fire pits are not movable once constructed/installed at a place.

How much space do you have for a fire pit? This is a crucial factor when choosing between a permanent and portable one. A permanent fire pit requires more space since you may also have to consider the seating space around it. If you own a compact backyard, portable alternatives may be the best choice.

Permanent fire pits can, of course, perform various functions even if you wish not to use them in the future. You can convert it into a fire pit table by covering the top portion.

How to Choose the Best Fire Pit: Factors to Consider

Below are some essential factors that you should consider before buying a fire pit.

● Purpose 

It is important to be clear on how often you’re going to use the fire pit to make a wise investment. If you’re using the fire pit for social gathering, then it’s better to use a pit that produces intense flames and if not, go for portable options with a wide edge.

● Location and size 

Location and size of the fire pit are two other factors you need to consider. There should be enough room for seats around the pit and it should be away from any combustible structures. Buy a pit that meets all these criteria.

● Fuel type 

Various types of fire pit fuel are available in the market. It is important to choose one that suits your needs. For instance, if you cannot tolerate the smoke, then you should probably go with gel fuel.

● Budget 

The cost of the fire pit differs based on the size, features, make, etc. Determine the price limit you can spend on a fire pit and choose one accordingly.

● Local regulations 

Before building or buying a fire pit, it's important to inquire about any regulations with the local government or your locality. Check if the pit that you wish to buy comply with the regulations before investing in it.

● Safety 

Safety should be the first priority when buying a fire pit. Look for additional features such as safety rings, spark screens, etc.

Interesting Fire Pit Ideas For Your Backyard

Planning to give that aesthetic upgrade you always wished for to the backyard with a fire pit? Here are some inspiring fire pit ideas to gorgeously transform your backyards.

• Keep a separate zone for the fire pit in your backyard and decorate it with an umbrella  to create that resort-like vibe.

• Choose multi-colored stones to construct the fire pit for that rustic look.’

• Make your fire pit area more intimate by growing tall hedges near it.

• Opt for a fire pit design that matches your home’s architecture.

• Decorate the fire pit area with lights for that perfect cozier ambience in the later hours.

• Surround the fire pit area with pebbles to keep it clean and tidy. Pebbles also contribute to the overall visual appeal.

• Arrange a cozy couch near the fire pit to turn the fire pit area cozy.

Safety First: Essential Checklist

• Check the weather conditions before starting the fire in the outdoor fire pit.

• Refrain from hanging a fire bowl in an enclosed area.

• Keep safety tools such as shovels, fire extinguishers, etc. within the reach.

• Extinguish the fire the moment you plan to go back to the house. Try to not leave it unattended.

• Make sure you keep the chairs at least 2-4 feet away from the fire pits.

• Place the pits on safe, fire resistant surfaces.

• Use the right type of fuel required for the fire pit you have.

• It is better to use a spark screen to control large flames and embers.

• If you are using a natural gas fire pit, turn off the switch after each use.

A fire pit is that perfect add-on that enriches your evenings and the visual beauty of your backyard. However, selecting the right fire pit involves proper research. Understanding all about the fire pits, their types, etc. can help you choose the best pit. Hence, before finalizing one, be sure that you’ve weighed the pros and cons of each types and take a wise decision.