A fire pit could be a solid source of entertainment if you’re looking to enhance your outdoor space. This stylish accessory brings great visual appeal to the yard but it can also keep you and your guests warm. Fire pits allow you to spend more time in the backyard by creating a cozy ambiance during chilly nights. Although you can also use an electric appliance to heat up the area, it’s safe to say that a fire pit is a much more charming option to use. If you’re planning a backyard makeover, it’s recommended to choose the right type of fire pit that matches your aesthetic preferences and various needs. Let’s see what kinds of fire pits are out there worth adding to your yard.
1. Wood-Burning Fire Pit
If you enjoy the idea of having your own cozy campfire in the backyard, you can’t go wrong with a classic wood-burning fire pit. It’s not surprising to see that this is the most popular option. Wood-burning fire pits are stylish and not particularly expensive when taking into account the required fuel. Another advantage of this type of fire pit is the installation process which is typically easier compared to others. Operating a wood-burning fire pit is also quite straightforward once its structure has been properly built.
Aside from sitting around cozily around your own personal campfire, a wood-burning fire pit may also be used to cook food. Many models double as a grill for this purpose. Adjusting the flame is done simply by putting more logs on the fire. Keep in mind that not all locations allow wood fires in your backyard. Another notable drawback of this type of fire pit is the somewhat reduced level of safety. You can’t extinguish the fire instantaneously as opposed to propane options. Burning logs need some extra effort to be properly extinguished even if you use a lot of water or sand.
The crackling noise of a wood-burning fire pit cannot be replaced by other types. Many people enjoy the campfire-like experience provided by this kind of fire pit. However, it’s important to remember that burning wood results in considerable amounts of smoke. You can’t use the fire pit for a long time because of the discomfort to your eyes and throat. Aside from acting as an irritant, the smoke is also damaging to the pit causing it unsightly discoloration together with the ash. This translates to increased work in terms of maintaining the fire pit.
2. Propane Fire Pit
If you’re looking for a fire pit that burns clean without compromising on warmth, consider using a propane model. This is the recommended type of fire pit to use under an outdoor structure due to safety reasons. Compared to natural gas options, propane also has the advantage of superior portability. It’s a breeze to move the fire pit to your gazebo only when needed, for example. To add extra mobility, propane fire pits can also be equipped with wheels.
With the help of a propane fire pit, you can enjoy a beautiful flame that easily becomes the focal point of the yard. The construction of the fire pit base is another element that contributes to pleasing aesthetics. You can take your pick between a varied selection of decorative styles such as those including rock pebbles, copper bowls, and glass. Propane fire pits based on copper bowls can be particularly durable but are usually more expensive than other models.
Although propane fire pits have their advantages, they also feature some drawbacks that you need to take into account. The biggest problem is the hefty cost of fuel. Propane tanks need to be constantly re-purchased to ensure a constant supply of fuel for the fire pit. Building this type of fire pit can get expensive even if you take out the cost of the fuel because different construction parts have to be purchased to make it work safely. Propane flames can be used for cooking food but you won’t achieve a great flavor compared to wood-burning fire pits.
3. Gel Fuel Fire Pit
Thanks to not producing smoke and soot, gel fuel fire pits are highly recommended if clean burning is important for your needs. This type of fire pit requires no venting because of the special properties of the gel fuel based on isopropyl alcohol. Anyone who wants to add a pleasant ambient fire pit to their yard should consider this type of fuel. The flame burns without any scent while allowing for versatile positioning. It’s even safe to use this type of fire pit indoors if preferred.
Gel fuel fire pits are convenient but they still have some disadvantages. The most important one is the lack of strong heat which can be a problem if you count on the fire pit warming the outdoor area during chilly conditions. Although you don’t need electricity or a gas connection to operate this type of fire pit, you need to purchase gel fuel cans. They burn for a limited time and might be difficult to find at big-box stores.
4. Natural Gas Fire Pit
Want the most convenient fire pit option available? Models fueled by natural gas could be the perfect solution. This type of fire pit is a little more difficult to set up initially because you have to connect it to the gas line of the home. However, once the installation is done, you can enjoy a constant supply of fuel to light up the fire pit anytime you want. Natural gas burns cleaner than wood while being activated quickly. It provides an effortless way to entertain guests without putting unpleasant smoke on their faces.
A big drawback to having a natural gas fire pit is that it can’t be moved around the yard. You will have to decide on a permanent location to install the fixture. Make sure the backyard has the capacity required to set up this kind of fire pit. It needs to be situated at least 10 feet away from structures that might catch fire. Although the cost to run a natural gas fire pit is not that as high as others, the installation incurs a pretty big expense at first. Among natural gas fire pit designs, some of the most popular ones include the sunken style that’s built into the ground or raised model that can enhance any patio or deck.
5. Fire Pit Table
By combining the convenience of sitting at a table with a campfire-like fireplace, you get to enjoy a unique fire pit design. This style typically relies on gas and allows the flame to stand out as the focal point of the tabletop. Guests can keep themselves warm but they also benefit from a convenient location to place food and drinks during outdoor socializing. Fire pit tables can be considered safer than classic campfire styles where the pit is situated directly on the ground. There’s an extra edge between the fire and the person sitting around it.
Fire pit tables come in different sizes according to your personal preference. Some models are as tiny as coffee tables while others can be as tall as bar tables. Regardless of your choice, it’s safe to say that a fire pit table is an elegant feature to add to any modern yard. It can elevate the ambiance of the space with its cozy vibe. Electric fire pit tables are also available but gas-powered fixtures are able to provide more heating power. Wood-burning fire pit tables are not as popular because they produce irritating smoke.
6. Masonry Fire Pit
Whether it’s built from stone or brick materials, this type of fire pit can provide a traditional look without compromising on sophistication. Masonry fire pits bring an authentic campfire vibe in multiple attractive designs. Installation is permanent and the fire pit can be powered by natural gas or wood, depending on your preference. Different types of bricks are usually used to design a more reliable masonry fire pit. Aside from decorative bricks on its outer wall, the fire pit shows off refractory bricks for the internal construction to withstand the intense heat better over a long period of time.
Masonry fire pits can be built in a DIY style to cut down on costs. They require a solid concrete base to be used as expected. If you want a sleek and modern design, you need to be prepared to spend quite a lot on a masonry fire pit. The good news is that there’s minimal maintenance involved once the fire pit is built and ready to go. You can safely use it during all seasons of the year without worries. Aside from creating a cozier atmosphere, this classic fire pit style can also be used for cooking s’mores.
7. Chiminea
Homeowners who prefer a more rustic aesthetic should add a chiminea to their yard. This is a fire pit style that’s extremely popular in Mexico and Southwestern areas of the US. A chiminea will typically fulfill a more decorative role in the yard considering its traditional hand-painted terracotta design. However, it also works like a portable fireplace that offers excellent warmth to your outdoor surroundings. Chimineas are usually equipped with reliable venting features and provide better safety than other fire pit styles considering the lack of open flames.
Another notable advantage of a chiminea is that it can be used to cook meals and make your gatherings more entertaining. In terms of required fuel, you can take your pick between multiple options such as wood, coal, and charcoal. Regardless of your choice, it’s recommended to add sand to the base of the pit for protection. When it comes to materials, chimineas are traditionally built using clay and terracotta but you can also find models crafted from steel, copper, and cast iron. Metal chimineas can suit modern spaces better but are more expensive than classic clay types.
Chimineas provide plenty of benefits but this fire pit style isn’t without some potential drawbacks. Despite giving off reliable warmth, all the heat is concentrated on a single side. This isn’t exactly ideal because you can’t get that kind of 360-degree radiant warmth that you’d typically find in an open-flame fire pit. Another disadvantage is the durability given the fact that chimineas can’t really handle harsh weather conditions. If you wish to maintain these outdoor fireplaces in top condition, it’s recommended to invest in a weatherproof covering.
8. Prefabricated Fire Pit
If you want to skip the process of building the fire pit, you can purchase a prefabricated model. This is a solid alternative for homeowners who mainly prefer this kind of backyard fixture to enhance the overall ambiance as they’re not very practical for cooking. Prefabricated fire pits are portable and available in multiple designs to suit different tastes. Fire bowls and columns are some of the most popular prefabricated fire pits styles to consider. Both can match modern aesthetics pretty well thanks to their elegant shapes and sleek lines.
When it comes to shopping for this kind of prefabricated fire pit, it’s important to take a close look at your outdoor space because the fixture needs to be well integrated with the existing décor. The portable design of this type of fire pit makes it very attractive for many homeowners but there’s also another advantage. Regulations are typically not as strict on prefabricated fire pits compared to classic options like masonry types. If the cost of this kind of fire pit seems too high, it’s worth mentioning that fire bowls can often be DIY-ed using a concrete mix and canned gel fuel among other materials.
9. Camping Fire Pit
Having a fire pit that you can only use in your yard might not feel always ideal. If you do a lot of traveling, it could be worth purchasing a fire pit specifically designed for camping. This kind of small unit is usually powered by wood but propane is often more practical due to its quick start and cleaner burn style. If you don’t mind waiting to get the fire going, it’s a better experience to use a camping fire pit that relies on burning wood considering its charming crackle and characteristic smell.
Many camping fire pits are geared toward users who enjoy cooking and that’s why they tend to include an incorporated grill. This type of fire pit is quite easy to use but you need to be careful about flying sparks. It’s recommended to use a safety screen with it. While camping fire pits are practical, the biggest drawback is the design which isn’t as stylish as classic models. That being said, this is still a very popular type of fire pit due to being extremely budget-friendly and portable.
10. Tabletop Fire Pit
As opposed to fire pit tables, tabletop units are much smaller and work best for yards with limited space. You can spend less money compared to a typical fire pit table by opting for this style. Due to their diminutive size, you can think of tabletop fire pits as smaller versions of prefabricated fire bowls. It’s a breeze to move around this tiny fire feature to display it on an outdoor shelf or put it on a large table without occupying the entire space with it.
Tabletop fire pits show reduced dimensions which come with the disadvantage of reduced heat output. They’re designed mostly as fancy decorations that create a comfortable glow regardless of the size of the backyard. In most cases, there shouldn’t be a problem if you decide to use a tabletop fire pit indoors because it’s powered by gel fuel. However, exceptions exist, so make sure you always read the instructions carefully to see whether your stylish little fire bowl can be safely used anywhere you like.
11. Fire Column Fire Pit
If you’re interested in a taller type of fire pit, you need to consider using a fire column. It can be a stunning addition to your outdoor space considering its sleek, cylindrical beauty. Fire columns can be fueled by propane or natural gas and come with the notable advantage of a smaller footprint. It’s a recommended fire pit style to make better use of the vertical space on your patio. You can get your hands on a wide variety of fire column designs to suit different preferences. Many fire pits show off a sturdy stone or wood exterior look that forms a chic modern appearance together with the internal metal parts.
Having a fire column can easily make your patio more elegant but this type of fire pit is not exactly practical for certain applications. For example, it’s not the best choice if you enjoy the idea of cooking food at the fire pit. You might also not be particularly impressed by the level of warmth supplied by a fire column. Considering its affordable price, though, it’s safe to say that this type of fire pit is worth adding to a smaller backyard in need of some fresh style.
12. Outdoor Fireplace
When it comes to providing reliable warmth to your outdoor space, you can’t go wrong with a fireplace. As opposed to indoor options, outdoor fireplaces can withstand being outside and exposed to difficult weather conditions. Building an outdoor fireplace can seem daunting compared to basic fire pit styles but it’s not as complicated as it seems. The construction process is similar to an indoor fireplace. It’s important to choose your materials carefully to make sure the outdoor fireplace can withstand high heat as well as fluctuating temperatures outside. Great options include brick, concrete, and stone.
Once the outdoor fireplace has been built, there’s minimal effort required to maintain it working as expected. Just make sure the structure has been properly treated to ensure reliable weatherproofing. When you discover cracks or signs of brick degradation, it’s important to act fast and use a powerful sealant to repair the damage. Compared to other fire pit types, outdoor fireplaces are probably the most expensive given the size and the exhaust requirements of the structure.
13. Fire Ring
Homeowners who like the idea of a customized fire pit that’s easy to assemble would be pleased to add a fire ring to their yard. This is a stylish option that’s not particularly complicated to use as long as you learn how to maintain the pit lit properly. Fire rings are similar to bowls and can be fueled either by wood, coal, or gas. In terms of design styles, fire rings have a lot to offer. They’re usually designed with a metal ring that can be personalized to show off the desired silhouette accented by the flames burning behind.
14. Washing-Machine Fire Pit
Looking to create the ultimate DIY-style fire pit? The cheapest option is to reuse an old washing machine drum. This is a creative idea that’s incredibly easy to pull off as long as you have the necessary materials at your disposal. Strip off all the plastic parts from the washing machine drum to ensure that only the metal component remains. Whether you stake it properly on the ground or build a makeshift structure to keep it raised, it’s safe to say that you can craft a unique DIY fire pit in this way. The obvious drawback is the limited safety considering how the metal of the drum gets really hot and will start to rust after some time.
Leave a Reply