There’s No Time Like Now to Add a Backyard Fire Pit to Your Home!

Thinking about installing a fire pit? Now is a great time to do it, but read on—below are some things you should consider before adding a custom fire pit to your Seattle, WA backyard.

Permanent versus portable

When it comes to backyard fire pits, your choices are a portable or permanent installation. Keep in mind that a built-in fire pit will become a focal point in the yard, while a lightweight and movable fire pit can be transported wherever you want to take your gathering. For built-in designs, some homeowners choose to handle the installation themselves, while others turn to a professional fireplace contractor. Whether you do it yourself or work with an expert, try matching the pit materials to those of your house or garden to ensure optimal visual flow.

As you’re getting started, research the pros and cons of all of your options to help you decide the best choice for you, and feel free to contact a local fire pit company like Custom Fire Art for more in-depth information.

Wood vs. gas powered

As far as fire pit fuels go, the two most common choices are wood and gas. The smell of burning wood creates a more authentic outdoor experience. Screen it in to protect people and surroundings from hot popping sparks. You’ll also need to keep a supply of good firewood on hand for burning.

The other popular option for fire pit fuel is gas or propane. Gas means instant fire, which can be ignited with a remote or a match. It’s important to note that gas fire pits do not get as hot as wood fire pits, and the crackle sound and smoke are not the same.

Installation location

Before installing a backyard fire pit, you need a surface to set it on and an ideal location. It’s best to set portable fire pits on a natural surface like gravel, brick, concrete or a fire-resistant composite material. Never put a fire pit on a wood deck, as this is a fire hazard. As for location, maintain a minimum distance of 10 feet between your fire pit and your house or your neighbor’s yard. (Local codes may also apply.) Fire pits of a certain size don’t require a permit, but other, more sizable ones might require a site inspection before installation.

Fire pit safety

Residential fire pits—big or small, permanent or portable, gas or wood burning—call for strict attention to safety. Let’s review some important fire pit safety tips from the pros.

First, check the direction of the wind before lighting a fire, and don’t use gasoline, lighter fluid or other flammable liquids to light or relight fires. Soft woods like cedar and pine, although they smell nice, should be avoided because they can send hot sparks far and wide. It’s also advised that you avoid wearing flammable or loose-fitting clothing around your lit fire pit, and keep children and pets at least three feet away.

If you would like to learn more about designing a custom fire pit for your Seattle, WA backyard, look no further than the experts at Custom Fire Art. Call us today to get started!

Categorised in: Custom Fire Pits

This post was written by Writer