Fire pits galore
Before the fabrication of man-made technology, a fire pit was a hole in the ground where a fire was kept. However, most people nowadays use a fire pit as a decorative centerpiece. Fire pits come in many shapes, materials and purposes.
What is the purpose of outdoor fire pits?
A fire pit is considered a contained fire. In the old days, pits were dug in order to create a fire without it spreading through the land. Native Americans would use these pits to smoke certain types of food. Today, they are used as conversational pieces.
Types of fire pits
If a person will be choosing a patio or backyard pit, they have options other than building into the ground. There are two main types of fire pits: permanent and portable. Once a person has decided on whether or not the fire pit will stay or can move, they will need to decide on the next level of fire pit.
Wood burning
Fuel
Propane
Natural gas
Now, the next choice in fire pits will be the material it is made from.
Copper- very high maintenance
Stainless Steel- easy to clean
Ceramic- heat resistant
Cast Iron- very heavy and radiates heat
Aluminum- very low maintenance
Things to consider before and after creating an outdoor fire pit
Living in the city has its perks, but make sure to check with the chamber of commerce before building. No point in spending time and money on something when it is not allowed. Another thing to take into consideration is money. Some pits can cost as little as a few hundred dollars. However, some can cost more than a thousand. The other three items to consider are personal preferences. Ask the following questions:
What type of fuel will be needed?
What type of style will fit with the house's exterior?
Should it be portable or permanent?
How to create an outdoor fire pit
The following instructions will tell a person how to create an in the ground fire pit. Planning will be essential in order to build the fire pit. However, before jumping into the actual building of the fire pit, make sure to have the appropriate materials and tools. Example of some tools and materials needed:
Tools
Shovel
Trowel
Tape Measure
Wheelbarrow
Hand temper
Stake
Materials
Screed board, usually 2X4
Firebricks, 9"X4" x 2-1/2"
Capstones
Ready-mix concrete
Gavel
String
Spray paint
Paver stones, 6"x12" x 2-3/8"
General outline of a fire pit
1. Foundation- Having a solid foundation will keep the fire pit secure
2. Outer Wall- Make sure the foundation has set before starting the process of building the wall. Otherwise, cracks and air can get into the pit, causing problems.
3. Inner Wall- This is where the fire brick goes.
4. Once everything has settled, clean the fire brick and then paint it.
Decorative fire pits
There are also decorative fire pits that are used for more of an entertaining focal point. Table pits are an easy option for patio and outdoor spaces that are limited. One of the best things about these pits, is that guests can sit at them and cook their own food.
One last note
No matter what type of fire pit is chosen, be sure to look into the different kinds, because once a decision is made, if it is a permanent pit, it cannot be undone.
