So, you’ve been thinking about adding a fire pit… we believe your backyard should feel inviting to you and yours all year round. Fire pits are a great way to do just that, from a fun summer bonfire to an intimate setting on a chilly winter night. There are so many types and styles of fire pits to choose from and many things to consider when getting ready to welcome such an addition to your home. 

WOOD-BURNING FIREPITS

If you’re looking for something sweet, traditional, and straightforward, you may be looking in the direction of a wood-burning fire pit, especially if you’re the snacking kind around a fire. Think, campfire, the feeling of being out in the wilderness, the sound of the wood crackling and tiny sparks floating about you in the air while telling stories, laughing, and just having a good time. Wood-burning fire pits consist of a bowl or shell where the wood is burned, made from steel, copper, cast iron, or stone, ranging from about 80lbs for a portable fire pit and 2500lbs for a permanent one. Looking for shells with weep (drainage) holes is ideal to always keep the base dry. Although they’re usually cheaper to install, these types of fire pits need a good amount of space, require more personal maintenance, and can be a bit messy. 

Safety Notes: National code states there must be a 25 ft distance from anything combustible. 

Recommended: Look for fire-resistant material when selecting surrounding seating. 

GAS FIREPITS 

We at GO Designs like to recommend; we believe they are the best option as it is just as simple and easy to use; it is also a no-mess option. If you are looking for a fire pit that you can sit close to, this is a perfect idea as these types can be installed in places others usually would not be able to. For example, embedded in a table or alongside water features. Since this style uses natural gas, this means it will have a continuous flow upwards that is clean burning with no ashes or embers sputtering about and can also be turned up or down to your liking. This fire pit is permanently placed and requires a gas line installed by a licensed gas plumber. 

Notes: Must be permitted and inspected. Fire Glass, lava rock, or fire-rated material can be used as filler material surrounding the burner fixture. 

PROPANE FIREPITS 

There are two types of propane fire pits, one with a gas propane line that connects to a large propane tank on the property which typically runs the home’s gas utility. The other style usually is a small propane tank within the firepit fixture or close to it in a ‘propane tank box.’ While these seem convenient, propane tanks will need frequent refilling. We consider propane tanks as the better and safer option when compared to propane gas line installations that can lead to sitting leaks and gas-filled pipes if the valve is not tightened correctly. 

Notes: Fire Glass should cover no more than an inch above the burner 

Safety Notes: Propane is heavier than natural gas/air and may lead to explosions. 

Gel Fire Pits, due to safety concerns, are not recommended by GO Designs. – In our research, we have discovered many comments discussing the concern of gel fire pits. On many occasions, the gel has exploded, leaving consumers with minor to severe burns. 

FIRE GLASS 

Fire glass is safe to use and adds a beautiful dash of color in your fire pits rather than traditional ceramic logs and lava rocks. It is not the fuel for the fire, nor does it contribute to it; it is simply meant for decoration and is only used with propane and gas fire pits.