As great as it is to have a backyard with a traditional deck and grill, it doesn’t really give your guests anything to write home about. You know what does, though? A fire pit.
Let’s cut to the chase: yes, it’s perfectly fine to have a fire pit built in your backyard.
However, Every Man’s Cave recommends that before doing so, you want to consider not only the sizes and styles of these accessories but also the local laws that govern building them.
This is to ensure everything is safe and goes according to plan.
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Considerations for Building a Fire Pit
Before you start imagining moonlit nights spent roasting marshmallows around the fire pit, here are some considerations for planning one:
Budget
The cheapest a fire pit setup can set you back is $100. This would usually involve simple kits you can purchase at local hardware stores. You might even be able to go lower with a DIY project.
These days, building your very own backyard fire pit can be a fulfilling and productive way to spend your extra free time at home.
Nevertheless, creating a fire pit that gets people talking is bound to cost at least a thousand bucks.
That’s because it will likely include seating and a whole other bunch of additions. Expensive? Sure. Completely worth it? Undoubtedly.
Fire Pit Type
There are usually two types of fire pits: portable and permanent. If you’re looking to make the accessory a fixture in your home, you’ll obviously want to go for the latter.
Permanent Fire Pits
Permanent fire pits should match the theme of your home in terms of shape, style, and color.
You can assemble one yourself using a kit bought at the hardware store or go for a DIY project. The latter should allow for a more unique backyard accessory.
Of course, nothing beats the fully custom route since it lets experts take charge of the design process. This way, you end up with something that’s not only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally sound.
Temporary Fire Pits (Portable Fire Pits)
On the other hand, you might want a pit that’s removable in case you get bored and want to change things up. A portable, lightweight fire pit would be the perfect choice for this.
Options also abound where these portable accessories are concerned. There are “fire bowl” types made of different materials, including cast iron, steel, and copper.
Then, we have the fire tables, which use propane and provide an area for sitting and eating. Lastly, there are chimineas, which are free-standing pits that stand out for their chimney-like vents.
Setting
It’s one thing to know you want a backyard fire pit, but another to determine where you want to set it. One thing’s for sure, though; this matter should consider safety, above all else.
With a temporary fire pit, set it on top of a fire-resistant surface, such as one made of bricks, pavers, or metal. Placing the accessory directly on top of grass or a wooden deck could be dangerous and might have embers flying everywhere.
As for the permanent fire pit, most laws dictate it should be at least 10 feet away from your home and your neighbor’s yard.
Firepit size might not be something all policies address, but you can be sure that distance will be one of the first things officials inspect.
Depending on the community, you might also not be allowed to burn wood on the fire pit. The point of all this is to check with local authorities before you proceed with your fire pit plan.
Seating and Lighting
The campfire mood may require dim lighting, but you also have to make sure that there’s enough of it for walking around the area safely.
Overhead string lights should work for as long as you don’t hang them right above the pit.
In terms of seating distance, seats should be far enough away for people to stand up and move around without getting uncomfortably hot.
Backyard Fire Pit Safety
Anything that involves fire calls for strict attention to safety. Here are some tips for handling your fire pit:
- Never light a fire using flammable fluids.
- Make sure to keep a garden hose or fire extinguisher nearby.
- Don’t let your children or pets near the fire pit unsupervised.
- Softwoods can cause embers to fly, so don’t use them.
- Avoid wearing loose-fitting or flammable clothes when around the fire pit.
- Consider the direction of the wind before you light a fire.
A Great Home Addition
There’s no question that a fire pit is a great addition to your home. There’s nothing like relaxing around the fire by yourself or with friends and family under a beautiful moonlit sky.
However, before you get to planning a fire pit, you must make some important considerations when it comes to safety and functionality. This will ensure not only a great project but a safe one, too.
