I’m going to make everything around me beautiful – that will be my life.
Elsie de Wolfe
A focal point and fun feature for all to use in our temperate climate, there are some things to consider when choosing an outdoor fire pit. Options range from wood burning, to propane to built-in natural gas, your budget, design, and installation will determine your choice.
This month I am providing a round up in the variety and styles of the “gentrified fire pit”. We’ve probably had experiences around campfires, singing songs or roasting marshmallows and eating s’mores or telling spooky ghost stories. At least, for me, those are my vivid memories around an outdoor, open flame.
Let’s start with wood burning fire pits. The most economical and most authentic to flame warmth, presentation, and sound, the wood-burning fire pit is also the best for cooking on. There is a wide variety of fuel, and it’s readily available. Use kiln-dried wood if you have concerns about spitting embers. It’s also hotter and there is less smoke due to the lower moisture content. You can also use wood briquettes for the same reasons.
Although I’ve always enjoyed the flames from a wood-burning fire, I’m not so keen on the smoke. There is also the maintenance of ash clean up, and the general safety of it to yourself, your environment, and other combustible materials.
Natural Gas fire pits are easy to use, are great for portability and flexibility in set up, or on the fly experiences. There is no smoke, so they are a clean and convenient choice for many, and they provide a warm environment. Regrettably, gas fire pits are not great for cooking.
l to r: Wayfair, Havenly, Walmart, Home Depot, Amazon, Home Depot, Connox, Home Depot, Terrain & Home Depot
As for fuel sources and looks for your hardscape feature, there is still more choice! A good idea is to assess your own backyard space or hire a professional to help. But just to name a few, you have: fire glass, lava rock, concrete spheres, wood briquettes, kiln-dried logs, and charcoal. There are also smokeless fuels and gels like ethanol.
For a small or apartment-size living, I’d suggest a tabletop fire feature for ambience, and if you want the sound of crackling, get a wood wick candle! They really work 🙂
PRO TIP: Be aware of fire restrictions in your community in summer. Many dry areas will not allow a flame fire. And, if your area has seasonal bush fires (like mine), you will not be allowed to burn from an open fire unless you have a permit from your local council, an inspection done, and a garden hose nearby to extinguish.
There is something to be said for memories created by an outdoor fire pit, and the good ol’ atmosphere it creates. So, I encourage you to get creative, source a fire pit to suit your lifestyle and budget, then sit back and enjoy a yummy s’more for me… Happy Roasting.
