Types of fire pits for outdoor entertaining

The Home Furniture Store

A fire pit is an excellent addition to any outdoor space. It provides a warm glow at night while also adding a sense of cosiness during the day. In this guide, you’ll learn the different types of outdoor fire pits and their advantages and disadvantages.

What are the benefits of having a fire pit?

Installing a fire pit allows you to entertain in your garden all year round. It provides warmth and creates a cosy ambience for guests to enjoy. It can also be used as an authentic way to cook food. Whether it’s used for a practical function or as a decorative piece, a fire pit is a great addition to any garden or patio.

What are the different types of fire pit?

Fire pits come in many different shapes and sizes. A few popular types include wood-burning fire pits, propane fire pits, and natural gas fire pits. Wood-burning fire pits are perfect for camping trips and require no additional fuel sources. Propane tanks or natural gas lines power propane and natural gas fire pits respectively. Both are ideal for patios or backyards because they have easy installation, require minimal maintenance, and operate without any smoke or ashes.

Fire Pit Table

Built into the centre of a Table, this type of fire pit is an ideal space saving option. It’s a great way to keep guests warm when seated around a table. There are a variety of designs available; from dining tables to coffee table, you can choose the perfect one for the available space. Fire Pit Tables are usually gas or electric, but can also be wood-burning. It’s not usually possible to cook with this type of fire pit. There is not much space between the flames and your guest, however, safety screens are usually included. Be sure there is enough ventilation and never leave it unattended.

Gas Fire Pit

This type of fire pit is designed with convenience and aesthetics in mind. The flames are powered by gas which is easy to turn on and off. Gas fire pits are usually a permanent fixture, however, portable gas fire pit are available. It can be more expensive as more gas has to be purchased.

Table top Fire Pit

Designed to sit directly on a flat surface, a tabletop fire pit is perfect for those with limited space. It is portable and can be used anywhere in the garden. Safety screens are usually included to protect you and your guests. Table top fire pits often use bio-ethanol to power the flames, which means it does not create smoke and can easily be switched on and off. Its small size means it does not give off as much heat and it will require refiling regularly.

Fire Pit Bowl

This is the most authentic style of fire pit having been used for hundreds of years to keep warm and cook. Usually made from iron, it is available in a wide range of shapes and sizes. It can be portable or permanent. Usually log fuelled, it will produce smoke and will require regular maintenance. To keep it in good condition, rub it with oil after every other use.

BBQ Fire Pit

With its multifunctional design, BBQ fire pit can be used to keep warm and cook delicious BBQ food. It is usually logged fuelled, which will create smoke. It will also produce oil drippings from meat and will require frequent cleaning.

Brick Fire Pit

Often built as a DIY structure, a brick fire pit is a permanent addition to an outdoor space. It can be made to measure and designed to complement your existing brickwork and décor. It will require a solid concrete base and cannot be built with normal bricks for the inner wall, as they will crack under the heat. If properly built, brick fire pits are the most durable types of fire pit.

Safety Precautions for Fire Pits

When installing any type of fire pit, safety should be a primary concern. Be sure to review the local fire codes and keep flammable materials and plants away from the fire area. Provide adults with lighters or matches so that kids can’t access them, and never leave a burning fire unattended. Also remember to keep pets away from the flames and make sure buckets of water or sand are nearby in case of emergency.

Find The Right Size and Location for Your Fire Pit

Fire pits come in a wide range of sizes from small tabletop models to larger, permanent installations. Consider the location and size of your fire pit carefully to account for safety and ventilation. If you have an outdoor kitchen or lounging area, you might consider installing a large fire pit close to those areas so that people can gather around the fire while they eat or lounge. Alternatively, if you don’t have much space on your property, opt for a smaller model that is easy to move around when needed.

Consider Fuel Sources and Accessories for Fire Pits

When selecting a fire pit, choose the type of fuel source you want. Wood burning pits offer an inviting campfire aesthetic and are ideal for outdoor entertainment, while propane or natural gas-powered pits are convenient and don’t require as much maintenance. Additionally, think about accessories such as built-in lighting fixtures to add atmosphere and ambiance. Other accessories can include lids to cover the fire in inclement weather or when not in use.