The seasons are rapidly changing, and it’s time to start thinking about outdoor entertainment and relaxing evenings at home enjoying the beautiful weather. What better way to maximize your outdoor respite than with a custom fire pit? Ready to create and install a fire pit? Check out some of our outdoor fire pit ideas.
Gas Fire Pit vs. Wood Fire Pit
The first decision to be made regarding your fire pit is what type of fuel it will use. Although there are some designs for both propane and wood fire pits, most models incorporate one type of fuel or the other. Here are the points to consider for your build.
Gas Fire Pit Benefits
A gas fire pit most likely utilizes propane, but there are some models of natural gas fire pits. Gas fire pits are easy to turn off and on, often at the push of a button. Heat and flame can easily be adjusted. Depending on your location, it may be easier to procure fuel for a propane fire pit or natural gas fire pit in comparison to a wood-burning model. Some zoning restrictions might only allow gas fire pits, and gas models generally output no smoke. We have several fire pit design options to allow you to select the best gas fire pit for your project.
Wood Fire Pit Advantages
On the other hand, if you want to go classic, a wood-burning fire pit may be the choice for you. If you already use a wood burning stove and have easy access to firewood, it is a no brainer to add a wood fire pit. On Long Island, firewood is easy to source and if you’re willing to split it yourself, you can even get it free from landscaping companies. The ambiance of a wood burning fire just can’t be beat. It provides a gentle crackle and pleasing smell that makes any summer night perfect. Some of our models even convert to a BBQ, allowing you to incorporate wood-fired cooking into your fire pit time!
Round or Square Fire Pit?
After fuel, your next consideration is whether you will choose a round, square, or other shaped fire pit. Round fire pits are popular, and allow the nostalgia of gathering in a circle around the fire.
However, if you’re looking for a more modern design a square fire pit might be the way to go. It pairs nicely with a pool, walkway, or other sharp lines in the hardscape.
You may also choose a rectangular or linear shape to accommodate a larger crowd.
Modernize with Fire Bowls & Fire Tables
To go ultra-modern, think about using a fire bowl or fire table instead of a traditional pit. A gas fire bowl is unique and chic, and less bulky than a traditional pit while still offering the allure of flames. A fire table is more similar to a traditional fire pit, but has the added sophistication of a sleek surface and style options such as a footrest and a higher height. While fire pits might be built into surrounding masonry or in-ground, bowls and tables are above ground and more mobile. If you want something different, a modern fire bowl or fire table might be the answer.
Choosing Fire Pit Seating
To truly enjoy a fire, you must have proper fire pit seating. Fire pit furniture ideas are numerous, so you must think about how you plan to utilize your fire pit. The best fire pit chairs for your situation might be classic patio furniture, or your fire pit furniture ideas may be more modern, with bench style seating for guests.
If you’re installing a fire pit as part of a complete outdoor patio design, we recommend installing masonry seating walls around your fire pit. Not only are they easy to incorporate at the design phase, but they’re weather-proof, fire-proof, and are a great opportunity to create unique garden rooms in larger outdoor spaces.
Consider Fire Pit Safety
Fire pit safety is an important thing to think about while you are planning your design. Simple add-ons can greatly improve your fire safety efforts. For example, some models have an optional spark screen to give bystanders additional protection from the flames. A fire pit insert can easily contain your fire and ensure that it doesn’t damage its surroundings.
Fire Pit Materials
Once you have selected your design, it’s time to pick up your materials and start your project! Astro Masonry has everything you need to build a fire pit, including wall blocks, sand and stone, caps and coping, materials to fill or accent the pit, safety equipment such as screens, fire glass and beads, lava rocks, fire pit inserts, grill accessories, gas burners, even full fire pit kits.
You can request a quote online or visit our Long Island masonry yard to purchase your materials directly or to see samples. Delivery is available!
Sources
- 7 Benefits of a Gas Fire Pit for Your Home, G&B Energy, 2019.
- Gas Fire Pit vs. Wood-Burning Fire Pit: Pros and Cons, Outeriors, undated.