Fire Pits
Hints and tips for choosing a Fire Pit; consider the appearance, usefulness and safety features of your purchase and the size suited to its location on your terrace, patio or garden.
Making good use of the various elements of a fire pit will enhance your outdoor experience. We all love the sounds and sight of real flames, there is a deep fascination for this in all of us. Add to that the warmth generated by the fire pit and you have a genuine reason to remain outside long after the sun has gone down and the chill of the evening has set in. The versatility of the fire pit is enhanced when you realise you are also able to use it as a BBQ.
The
fire pit has become a popular choice for outdoor garden enthusiasts in recent years, even for those with small gardens. A fire pit is ideal for locating on wooden
decking, patios and terraces as well as lawns.
When selecting a fire pit for your particular outdoor location you must consider a few safety tips:
- Remember that burning wood or blazing coals can be a hazard if not treated properly and with respect.
- Consider the safety aspects of what you are doing; be aware of any children or pets that may be around. This is true of any situation involving flames whether it be an open fire or a contained situation, such as with a fire pit.
- The great thing about a fire pit is that it offers a roaring blaze without the mess associated with an open bonfire.
- If a fire pit is sited on timber decking you must search for ones that have a spark guard. If you have small children or pets, or even adults with a glass or two of wine inside them, the spark guard is essential. You can now have a roaring blaze safe in the knowledge nothing and no-one will come to any harm.
- Look for a fire pit with a ventilation slot at the bottom to provide air to keep the flame alight.
- There should be a tray underneath the fire pit to collect ash and any fat if you are barbecuing. This prevents the fire pit from causing any damage to your timber decking, patio, terrace or lawn.
Construction and Design
- Choose a fire pit that is made from either high quality steel or cast iron or a combination of both. This makes the fire pit durable and long lasting ensuring your garden parties and barbecues will continue for many years.
- Protect the fire pit when not in use.
- Allow the fire pit to cool down thoroughly before moving
- Clean it prior to storage.
- Don’t leave it outdoors, uncovered, in the winter months as it will get rusty and dirty.
- When not in use store it in your garden shed after you have given it a good clean.
- Most designs for a fire pit follow standard tripod shape. The three legs which often have adjustable clawed feet allow it to stand on uneven surfaces. However, a popular alternative is the square fire pit. This is a contemporary design which fits well with the modern home and garden and still allows for the cooking option.
Barbecuing
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Although your fire pit will primarily provide you with a roaring blaze in your favourite outdoor space, many types will also allow you to cook on them. What an efficient use of fuel – heat, light and cooking all in one!!! It will improve your green credentials no end. The grill, which is usually removable, is slit for easy access during barbecuing. The fire pit option offers so much more than the traditional BBQ which is only really suited to cooking. The barbecue does not offer the aesthetic beauty and benefits of real flames in terms of providing light and heat as a focal point for your evening outdoors. The nearest alternative comes in the shape of the Chiminea, which provides heat and some do allow for cooking. However Chimineas tend to be bulky and heavy to move around. |
Types of Fuel
A fire pit will burn an array of fuels including wood, coal and charcoal. It all depends on the effect you want to achieve – glowing embers or a roaring blaze? How about loading your fire pit with charcoal for barbecuing your favourite tasty morsels and then when everyone has eaten their fill, throw on a few logs to get that roaring blaze. This will provide a magnificent centre piece for your outdoor garden party. It will look splendid adding atmosphere, mood
lighting as well as heat.
You can now enjoy a roaring blaze in your garden, decking area, patio or terrace courtesy of your versatile
fire pit.