Nothing sets the mood more than a cozy, inviting fire. Turn up the heat with a gas fireplace or fire pit on your patio. Whether you want to cuddle with a loved one, stay warm in the cold winter months, or gather around with friends to make s’mores, there is a fire installation perfect for your outdoor space.

Types of Fire Pits

Fireplaces and fire pits come in all shapes and sizes, making it easy to find the right fire solution for your backyard or outdoor patio. Elevation of the actual fire and shape of the fire pit effects heat exposure.

Some fire pits are pieces of outdoor furniture that can be moved around on the patio to suit your needs. Some fire pits exist as a fire “bowl” that sits on a pedestal, which allows for the warming of your upper body and hands. Circular fire pits surrounded by crescent seating or swivel chairs create a conversational space. A long, rectangular fire pit set up along built in seats or benches allow plenty of room for everyone to stay warm.

Fire pits built into the ground can provide more heat and a custom appearance. Think of built-in fire pits or fireplaces as structural art pieces. These fire structures are generally large, statement pieces for the patio. The current trend is a transitional style, something between traditional and contemporary in design.

Safety First

Safety always comes first, especially around fire products. Only adults who know how to handle the fire starter should operate it and children should be kept away from any open flame or fire pit machinery at all times. Surround the fireplace’s or fire pit’s hardscape with nonflammable material, such as bricks or stones. Place the fireplace or fire pit as far as possible from anything that can catch fire, such as the house or plants, especially in dry environments or weather. Alternatively, dig a pit so that you can place the fire pit below ground level. Manufacturers are constantly improving fire products to ensure safety of customers.

Finishing Touches

Many manufacturers offer accessories for fire pits and fireplaces, including flame guards and pokers and brooms. Perhaps the most interesting is the fire media – colored glass, pebbles, or logs that cover the burner. Fire media comes in different colors, shapes, and sizes so that you can truly customize your fire pit or fireplace.