Outdoor fire pits are quickly becoming the gathering spot for family and friends on patios, decks and other backyard areas. They are a popular feature for many homes, apartments, camps, and a variety of other social gathering places. In addition to being a great way to stay warm and have fun, outdoor fire pits are perfect when you’re looking for that feel of being around a campfire, but in the comfort of your own backyard or city deck.
Outdoor fire pits have many more uses and benefits than what you may think. When sitting around an outdoor fire pit, the quality of the interaction amongst friends definitely is improved. There is something about the warm glow of a fire that attracts and relaxes people. Outdoor fire pits bring a whole different atmosphere to your favorite outdoor space.
Enjoying your backyard, deck or patio does not have to end just because winter arrives. A quality outdoor fire pit can bring a whole new dimension to your favorite space even in winter. Sharing time around a warm campfire in the midst of the snow and cold is truly a unique experience.
You can use some outdoor fire pits for cooking. Not only is this fun and something different to do, it may prove quite beneficial during power outages and other situations when the stove and microwave can’t be used.
Portable outdoor fire pits are versatile and specifically designed for small, easily controllable campfires that you can enjoy wherever you want. At the same time, they add a luxurious element to your outdoor style.
For me, an outdoor fire pit helps keep things in perspective. Replacing the rush and pressures of the day with the woodsy smell, sounds and warmth of a crackling fire, especially in the clear and cool of the night, is one of my joys.
Of course, this kind of experience requires the right kind of outdoor fire pit, one that enhances its setting and meets your needs and preferences.
Outdoor fire pits come in a large variety of types, designs and levels of quality. Therefore, before you buy, it’s important to think about a few things. For example, how will it be used in your setting, who will be using it, what kind of “look” are you trying to achieve, how long do you want it to last?
A variety of materials are used in the manufacture of portable outdoor fire pits and include: wrought iron, cast iron, copper, stainless steel, aluminum, and ceramic. There are some gorgeous custom made fire pits on the market made from concrete, marble and slate. The kind of material used influences the functionality, durability, and style of the fire pit.
Even though there is a lot of variety when it comes to the names and styles of outdoor fire pits, most fall into one of three categories in terms of the type of fuel they burn. Which one you choose, wood, propane, or natural gas, really should depend on two considerations. What are your preferences, and what is the availability of each type of fuel?
Just one example why propane or natural gas may be a better choice than wood is if the fire pit will be used in a place where burning wood is dangerous or restricted. If you don’t have natural gas lines installed, and you don’t want to fuss with having that done, then propane may be the way to go.
On the other hand, wood burning fire pits are very popular for a number of reasons, including fragrance, cooking, and (for many) the joy of chopping and stacking firewood and building a campfire. In other words, there are a few things you need to think through before buying your outdoor fire pit.
Talking about buying, price certainly matters, but be careful. The most cheaply priced outdoor fire pits may not be a wise choice. If you look, you may find something that looks nice for under $100, but you may also see rust and other deterioration after only a few months. Remember, outdoor fire pits sit out in the weather.
On the other hand, there are portable outdoor fire pits that cost well over $1,000. Many people who have the ability to purchase those products feel that the kind of materials used and the hand-crafted quality are well worth it.
In general, you can find just about any style, look or function that you want in a well-made portable outdoor fire pit for $200 to $600. Compared to the cost and disadvantages of a permanent, stone fireplace structure, this is a wise and affordable investment.
Outdoor fire pits are a wonderful and creative addition to any backyard, patio or deck area. They are natural gravitation points where we like to congregate, keep warm, roast marshmallows, and relax. Outdoor fire pits are readily available in a range of shapes, sizes, functions, and prices to suit your needs and preferences, as well as extend your backyard season into the cooler months. If you’re developing your backyard into a haven for fun, relaxation and escape, a quality outdoor fire pit is essential.
Chris Basher is a recognized authority on virtually all aspects of outdoor fire pits, including their safe use. Be sure you check his other helpful and free articles and special offers before buying an outdoor fire pit or other backyard, deck and patio products, including outside patio fireplaces, chimineas, gel bowls, outdoor patio heaters, wood racks, ash vacuums, and outdoor mosquito traps.
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