No longer will a wood deck with a barbecue do for many homeowners wanting to enjoy their back yards. These days, accessorizing means amenities like ponds, flower beds, vegetable gardens, outdoor kitchens, and, increasingly, fire pits that crackle and glow.
One reason for a fire pits appeal? According to Sacramento, Calif., landscape designer Michael Glassman, a fire pit can extend back yard use through fall and winter. In fact, fire pits have become so popular that some builders construct them as part of the package for their higher-priced homes, says Florida real estate agent Karen Wentz.
Things to consider when adding a fire pit
Of course, a fire pit can be had without spending top dollar. Because styles, sizes, and materials abound, your choices should be based on your space at hand, budget and, of course, local ordinances. (Some municipalities ban open burning of any kind.)
Here’s what else to consider before planning a fire pit and dreaming of cool, moonlight nights with some s’mores:
The options for portable fire pits are equally varied. There are fire bowls that come in a variety of materials — heavier cast iron bowls a do a nice job of radiating heat. Regardless of which way you go, you need to ensure that you’re using proper stones and materials (something that shouldn’t splinter when the fire heats up, explains). Make it proportional to the size of your yard, and be sure you have room for seating and circulation.
What to set it on. It’s best to set a set a portable fire pit atop a natural surface such as concrete, stone, gravel, brick, slate, or a fire-resistant composite, the experts say. Putting it on a wood deck can be dangerous if embers fly. A permanent fire pit is typically built on a base of gravel somewhere in the back yard.
Where to set up your fire pit
Many communities require a minimum of a 10-foot distance from your house and neighbors’ yards. Some don’t require a permit if the fire pit fits within set size requirements; others require a site inspection from local fire officials to make sure your proposed location is safe (away from fences, structures, overhanging branches, etc.). And, some communities have outright bans on open fires. Check with local officials before you do anything.
How to create the right ambiance
To get maximum night enjoyment, consider installing outdoor lighting near the pit. Make it subtle to avoid destroying the camp-fire mood, advises Van Zandt. Energy-efficient LEDs can be plugged into a nearby outlet without making it necessary for you to hire an electrician, she says. And consider seating: Maybe metal chairs in a classic Adirondack style, or a low stone wall that’s at least 18 inches high, 12 inches wide, and 2 feet from the pit for safety.
A fire of any kind-small or roaring big-demands serious attention to safety so here are some fire pit safety advice:
Check wind direction before you light a fire
Don’t use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.) to light or relight fires
Don’t wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fit clothing
Avoid using soft woods like pine or cedar, because they can “pop” and throw sparks.
Know how to safely dispose of ashes
Let HOMEFIELD show you how to use the natural attraction of fire to enhance your outdoor living experience. Whether used for cooking, heating, or unveiling the night with light, the attraction of fire is undeniable. Fire in all its forms will add beauty, functionality, and charm to any outdoor living environment. HOMEFIELD offers several fire pits, please come visit one of our showrooms in New Braunfels or Corpus Christi today. We also carry family fun products such as Big Green Egg,an outdoor cooking product, Rainbow Play Systems,Trampolines,Goalsetter Basketball Systems, and Playhouses too!
