Discover - Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying A Fire Pit

A good question to ask yourself before you make a purchase is “why do I want a fire pit”. How you answer will tell what style of fire pit you should be shopping for.

If you are after the nostalgic smell of a burning, crackling wood camp fire then focus on a wood burning style pit and start looking for a wood supplier. But before you order your first cord of wood ask yourself “how many years” would you like to enjoy sitting in front of your new fire pit. A pit made of ¼’’ thick steel, will pretty much last a lifetime. Copper and stainless steel of 18 gauge or heavier will also last a very long time. When comparing thickness a lower gauge number means a thicker material. Pits made of metal with painted surfaces will quickly show damage - like peeling paint and rusting surfaces and will last only a few years.

If you want the convenience of flipping a switch to have a fire and if you desire to entertain and dine by fire – you should pick a gas fire pit and begin planning your next party. But before you send out the invitations ask yourself “what style of dining or entertaining do you have in mind”. For a really big party you can have a dining table with the fire pit in the center or for smaller gatherings consider a bistro table with a fire pit in the center.  If you just want a fire to cozy up to, then consider a coffee table height style. Better quality fire pits will have stainless steel burners that put at least 40,000 BTU’s. The more BTU’s the more flame and heat.

Most gas fire pits will use bottled propane gas like used for outdoor grills and some can also be directly connected to your homes natural gas line. Connecting to your gas line will require a professional to install but does provide the convenience of not having to replace the portable tank. Some styles will only work when connected to a gas line.  Be sure and check before you purchase.

Always remember that people who play with fire sometimes get burned. Never place a fire pit in a confined area or leave them unattended. Enjoy!