Fire is an ideal element for any outdoor entertainment space. With a variety of options and styles, you can easily find the right one for any yard. But how do you know which one is the best?
Here are five considerations you can make to decide what type of fire pit would best fit your yard.
1. Size
You may want to start your search by deciding on the size of fire pit that your space calls for. A small, mobile metal fire pit could easily get lost on a big outdoor deck, negating the power to draw in guests. On the other hand, a full fire pit may overwhelm a small patio and leave little room for anything else.
To determine how large your pit should be, ask yourself the following questions:
- Is there enough room to set up conversation groups and furniture around the pit?
- Will there be sufficient air flow around and over the fire?
- Will it be far enough away from flammable materials to avoid being a hazard?
You should also consider the type of gatherings you usually plan for your backyard. Do you usually host just one other couple or large parties with dozens of guests? Do you have a lot of kids who play elsewhere or mostly adults who want to gather around the fire? All of these questions will help you determine the best size of fire pit for your yard.
2. Fuel
The type of fuel you decide to use will affect where you want to put your fire pit and what kind you should choose. If you plan to use a wood burning fireplace or pit, you can place it farther away from the house and won't need to fit propane tanks around it. But if you want the ease of immediate startup or false fire, be prepared to make room for tanks or electrical connections.
3. Ambience
What do you want the fire pit to add to your recreation experience? Round fire pits offer a traditional campfire feeling perfect for casual and informal get-togethers. On the other hand, something like a large fireplace creates a cozier feeling of home and warmth, and it may blend well with the interior of the adjoining rooms.
More modern approaches to fire pits include square or rectangle pits and even fire tables. A fire table adds drama to outdoor dinner parties and can be a truly unique focal point.
4. Mobility
Finally, think about how much you will want to move the fire pit around. If your needs vary a lot, a fire pit might not work into every plan you make. In this case, something light and portable that you can move on your own or with the help of one other person would be best.
A small and simple chiminea might be the right choice for a very small patio or porch. Fire tables are also something to consider since they can do double duty with and without the fire backdrop - they're a good choice for variety.
Heavy materials like stone or brick better lend themselves to pits that stay in one place. And if you opt for a fireplace, you'll obviously want to be fully committed to one location since it won't be able to move.
5. Price
Of course, you'll want to stay within your budget. As you figure out what type of fire pit works in your space, set a specific budget early on. That way, you'll avoid falling in love with an appliance that you can't afford.
If choosing a gas fire pit, be sure to add in the cost of accessories like propane tanks and pipe equipment. A fireplace may also come with added costs for installation and maintenance of the chimney and fire box.
You can shop for your fire pit with confidence when you keep these things in mind. For more help choosing between the many style and size options available, contact the fire experts at River City Fireplace & Barbeque today.
