Though fire pits have been around for many years, outdoor fire pits are fascinating more and more homeowners than ever in recent years. The trend of homeowners upgrading their existing fire pits or installing a new one continues to grow.
But what makes fire pits so popular? Here’s a list of reasons why you must join the bandwagon:
A fire pit is a crowd-pleaser.
Lighting up a fire is a natural way to create a focal point at a gathering outdoors. Whether it’s the dancing flames or some sort of primal memory, people are drawn to it and love to gather around the fire. Nothing promotes a social gathering or a long, hearty conversation like the open flames of a fire pit. The calming and warming effect of the fire may bring closeness to those who gather around it.
If you’re looking for an excuse to invite people over, all you need to tell them is, “We’re lighting up the fire pit tonight. Want to come over?”
Wood-free options are available.
Old-style wooden fire pits need a lot of maintenance and take lots of time to light up, not to mention you always need to gather up wood every time you want to have a fire. But because there are modern fire pit options that are fueled by gas or propane, a gas fire pit can be a small pit or a table of fire for your patio, deck, or backyard. You also don’t have to worry about embers reigniting your fire in the middle of the night and ashes to clean up in the morning. If you’re wondering what to look for when buying a fire pit, read here.
A fire pit is versatile.
You don’t need a large backyard to have an outdoor fire pit at home. Even a compact urban patio or yard can handle a fire pit – thanks to the many beautiful and compact designs available, including fire pit tables that create a beautiful centerpiece for your outdoor space.
While it can indeed become a centerpiece of a small yard, you can install a large fire pit surrounded by benches for a crowd if you have a large yard.
It can add to form and function in your landscaping.
Modern gas fire pits can add to a landscaping design, both in form and function. While it provides elegance and ambiance, they are also perceived to be as much furniture as a fire maker. They may even function as a table during the daytime and when not in use, as some can be equipped with one. For large-enough units, they can also accommodate chairs placed around them.
It lights up the night.
All the fancy lighting in the world cannot compete with the flickering blaze of a real fire. Use the warm light from the fire pit to light up a part of your yard or patio without having to fuss with electricity. Plus, it can improve the aesthetics of your home and give it a wonderful warm glow. The most underused part of the house is often the garden, but if you have a fire pit, there’s no excuse to not stay and linger outdoors during the still of the night.
If you’re hosting a party and your guests remain long after the sun goes down, you don’t want them stumbling around in the dark. A fire pit will provide unique and ambient lighting and a glow to your entertaining outdoor area.
It can be enjoyed all year round.
Some people assume that a fire pit is a seasonal amenity that can be enjoyed only during summer nights. But a fire pit is actually a versatile outdoor space you can use throughout the year In the summer, you can roast s’mores, and during all and winter, you can stay by the fire and wrap yourself in a thick blanket and sip hot cocoa or cider while gathered with friends and family. You can transform your bonfire nights, Halloween, and even Christmas Eve with the warmth and comfort of the fire pit.
It provides a romantic ambiance.
While a fire pit is great for parties, they’re also suited for romantic nights for two. It sets the mood for warm and meaningful conversations, along with providing a relaxing environment. There’s no better setting for a romantic conversation than watching hypnotic flames while suggesting intimacy where you’ll want to cuddle up closely together. You and your spouse might be tempted to skip the wine bar or a fancy restaurant while you can sip vino and cook BBQ on the fire in your own backyard.
It creates a cozy atmosphere outdoors.
Whether you want to have alone time outside, snuggle up with your family and chat, or host an outdoor party – the fireplace is the best place to cozy up. There’s something about a fireplace that says, “This is home.” It can comfort you, promote relaxation, and even decrease blood pressure.
It’s available at all price points.
Fire pits are not just for the rich. Realistically, they come in so many shapes, sizes, and materials, so there’s no average cost. From simple fire bowls and DIY projects to elaborate custom designs with built-in seating – you can surely find a fire pit that can suit your budget.
A simple wood-burning fire pit made of metal can amount to an average of $50, and you can find a fire pit table that ranges from $200 to $600 and above. And if you want something elegant, you can build an entire entertainment area with seating for anywhere from $5,000 and above.
Whatever style you choose, don’t skimp on safety, and make sure to install it on a non-flammable surface.
It’s safe to use.
Propane and gas-powered fire pits are incredibly safe, and you don’t have to worry about them causing fire and damage to your property if you use them responsibly.
Most cities and counties have laws regarding which type of fuel you can burn. Make sure you are complying with the guidelines of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association (HPBA) for safety in this area.
Here are some of the fire pit safety tips you must bear in mind:
- A fire pit must be kept at least 10 feet away from your house or other structure. Some city and county codes may require an even greater distance, so make sure you check the ordinances in your area before you build.
- Don’t install it beneath a tree or an overhang, whether it’s natural or man-made.
- Don’t use a wood-burning fire pit on a patio or deck
- Always keep a bucket of water, a hose, a fire extinguisher, or sand (or all four) nearby in case of an emergency.
- Educate everyone at home about fire safety, and always supervise children around an open flame. Make sure the entire family knows how to use it and how to put the fire out, even if they don’t intend to operate it.
- Always adhere to your local fire safety laws.
You can even cook on it.
On a more straightforward level, fire pits are great places to cook grilled food. Appetizers, main courses, and even desserts – these can all be cooked in a fire pit. Of course, you will need a grill plate and sometimes some pots and pans to make life easy. Of course, you can always cook things on skewers like marshmallows, hot dogs, shish-kebabs, and s’mores. If you have the right equipment, you can cook nearly everything on an open fire. You can get creative with fire pit meals, as they can make for some fun parties, dinners, and dates.
It increases the value of your home.
Fire pits are hot today. It’s among the most popular backyard additions by homeowners who renovate. Having a well-built, well-maintained fire pit in your yard can give your home an edge if you decide to sell. Since it transforms a typical deck, patio, or backyard into a livable space, it offers an increased value as potential homebuyers might be enticed by picturing themselves enjoying their new fire pit as much as you had. It may even end up being their deciding factor between their choices!