What’s trending outdoors? FIRE PITS!

Every year the summer flies by. It seems like I always have so much to look forward to; weddings, vacations, and family events. However, every year August rolls around and it feels like it’s the end of summer. This must have stemmed from the school year’s break that ends after Labor Day and has engrained in me the finality of summer. In reality there are many more warm summer days left throughout September. As the evenings start to get cooler a perfect way to continue enjoying the outdoors is with a fire pit. Fire pits are all the rage right now and it’s because the industry is flooded with options! Who wouldn’t want to cozy up around the warmth of a fire? Let’s take a look at the choices:

• Built-in or freestanding?
  • Built-in fire pits can range in price from DYI version with a few cement blocks up to the high end custom designed styles.
  • Freestanding offers the ability to take it with you when you move or if you just want to use it at another location of your patio.

• Wood burning or gas operated?
  • Both have their perks, such as, a gas fire pit turns on and off in a snap. No need to worry about having dry firewood or waiting for it to burn out. Gas operated fire pits burn cleaner and you can control the heat. They can also be used on a deck or somewhere closer to your home, unlike wood burning styles.
  • Wood burning fire pits offer that bonfire aroma that brings back that feeling of lazy summer nights. They will put out more heat than gas operated. Oh, and roasting marshmallows is allowed!

• Quality
  • Not all fire pits are created equal. Construction and frame materials are a significant factor on how long your fire pit will last. For example, a metal frame that has been welded together will last significantly longer than something with many screws and bolts. Make sure to do your research and speak with a knowledgeable salesperson before making final decisions.

   

WOOD BURNING FIRE PITS

Freestanding wood burning fire pits have been the go to standard, but there are more beautiful options than ever before. Here are a few options to consider when looking for a wood burning fire pit.

• Size:
  • Wood burning fire pits range in size from 24” – 54” diameter. Typically, they are available in round bowl shapes. The larger the bowl the larger the fire!
• Material:
  • Metal frames typically come in copper, steel and aluminum. Copper will develop a green patina over time. Aluminum is great because it does not rust and some manufacturers offer your choice of metal finishes in shades of black, grays, and browns.

Aluminum 48” diameter wood burning fire pit. Available in 10 finishes. One neat feature here, the bottom shelf can be used to cover the fire bowl to transform this fire pit into a chat table!

Copper fire pits ranging in size from 36” – 54” diameter.  Available in a variety of designs.

This is one giant Chimenea! This handsome and versatile piece will add to your entertaining ability.

GAS OPERATED FIRE PITS

Many new options continue to evolve in freestanding gas operated fire pits. Here are a few things to consider:

• Sizes:
  • Standard Fire Pit – Typically at “chat” height (about 20”-24” high) and are built with a larger diameter burner. The standard gas operated fire pits can be used with a variety of casual seating pieces such as cushioned lounge seating, sling chairs, or the popular Adirondack chairs. Available in rectangular, square, and round shapes.
  •  Dining Fire Pit – Dining height is typically2 28-29” in height and usually paired with dining chairs. The top will have more surface space for dining and a smaller diameter burner. Available in round, square, and rectangular shapes.
  • Counter Height Fire Pit – Counter height is considered 36” in height and you would complete this casual setting with counter height stools. Available in round and square options.

•  Propane or Natural Gas:
  •   Some manufacturers offer the capability for their gas fire pits to be used with either a propane tank or natural gas. It is recommended to have a professional install natural gas to your fire pit.

•  How many BTUs is enough?
  • More BTUs translates to more heat. Keep in mind that gas fire pits are not the same as patio heaters that direct the heat down. Although some of the heat will radiate out from the flame much of the heat will go up. About 50 – 60 thousand BTUs is a good standard. Anything higher doesn’t necessarily translate to more heat radiating out to warm you up.

• Custom Styles:
  • Frame – From shape to material to color, the exterior fire pit frame can vary depending on the look you prefer. It’s not just one design fits all anymore!
  • Top – Tops can range in material and size. Typical material selections are metal, stone, or tile options. Once a material is chosen there are generally color options as well. Again, you can customize to match your outdoor furniture and décor.

• Fire Media:
  • This refers to material in the fire bowl and surrounding the flame. Options range from glass in various texture and colors, small rocks, large rocks, and faux logs. Glass tends to be the most popular and will offer a more modern feel. Rocks tend to be more rustic or traditional in design.

• Accessories:
  • Add on items are available to adapt the fire pit to your specific needs. These features include (but are not limited to) a Lazy-Susan for serving, metal covers for protection, fabric covers for storage and long periods of non-use, flame guards, and even a grill pan for light grilling.

Thanks for visiting! Continue to check back for more trends and news in Entertaining Design.

Visit Peters Billiards website for more patio furniture options including deep seating, dining, fire pits, umbrellas, and accessories.