Americans have enjoyed spending more time in their backyards in recent years. As a result, many have installed outdoor entertainment systems such as TVs, speakers, and kitchens. A fire pit is a popular outdoor feature frequently found in homes with swimming pools.
Pool owners frequently want to spend more time in their backyards, and fire pits are a great way to do so. Fire pits make spending time with family and friends easier on cool, moonlit nights. When selecting a fire pit, consider where it will go, how much you want to spend, and whether or not there are any rules.
1. Make a Budget
A homeowner can purchase a ready-made fire pit or build one themselves. Prefabricated models are the most convenient assembly time, but their durability is often subpar. The bottoms are made of metal, which quickly rusts and wears out.
Concrete is the best base for a fire pit because it allows water to drain away from the hand-laid bricks and mortar. Water and ground movement are frequently issues with brick-and-mortar buildings. Hire a contractor to ensure that the job is done correctly and that the structure will last.
2. Consider Where You Want the Fire Pit to Go
Find out what the rules are in your area before installing a fire pit. The main issues with a fire pit depend on local building codes and council rules. If you want a fire pit installed, you should hire a professional who is familiar with and abides by all building codes. This is the most effective way to gain the support of the city council.
3. Choose a Fire Pit
Before we build a fire pit, we'll go over some broad categories of materials. These are classified into the following categories:
A fire pit not buried underground: The most common fire pit is the elevated pit with walls or other enclosures on three or more sides. Some above-ground fire pits may have one or more 20-inch-tall sides.
Fire pits dug into the ground: Some people create an underground fire pit by digging a hole in the ground. It is permissible to store firewood above ground. A small patio built around a fire pit is a great place to sit and enjoy the warmth.
Customized fire pit: brick and concrete are frequently used to hand-build fire pits. Things that cannot be moved, whether on the surface or beneath the ground. A fire pit can be ordered in any size or price range.
Firebowl: A fire bowl is small enough to be placed on a standard outdoor table. Some species have individuals who stand several feet tall. Concrete, steel, or cast iron fire bowls can be lit with wood or gas.
4. Select the Materials to Be Used
Before using it, you must decide how your fire pit looks. These parts are frequently used for both above and below-ground fire pits.
Stone: This material is available in round and sharp designs, allowing homeowners to select the best one for their outdoor space. They range in color from brown to gray and can be used with charcoal or wood.
Utilize fire bricks or pavers: Because brick can withstand high temperatures, it is used for outdoor and indoor fire pits. Because it is inexpensive and easy to shape, this material is ideal for making fire pits at home.
Concrete: Concrete pavers and poured concrete allow you to design a fire pit in various ways. Concrete is frequently made from bricks and rocks. Builders save money and time by using blocks because they are inexpensive and come in large sizes.
5. Remember the Rules for Using a Fire Pit
Let us begin by discussing safety. When dealing with a fire, precautions and safety measures must be taken. According to the Australian Fire Protection Association, these precautions should be taken around outdoor fire pits.
- Before you start a fire, check the wind direction.
- Never start or relight a fire with gasoline, lighter fluid, or any other flammable liquid. You could be hurt or even killed (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.).
- Wearing loose, flammable clothing near a fire is not a good idea.
- Both pine and cedar can "pop" or explode, sending sparks into the air.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the fire.
If you live in a wildfire-prone neighborhood, your homeowner's insurance may require you to extinguish your fire pit. Inquire about how having a fire pit may affect your rates with your insurance company.
