Wood Burning and Gas Fire Pits

During the summer months there is no better way to enjoy the evening hours than around a fire pit. Not everyone has experienced the cozy, calming, relaxing atmosphere of an outdoor fire. You can find them in all styles, designs and price ranges at your local home and garden store. However, you don't have to buy one to enjoy the allure of an outdoor fire. It is easy enough to make one yourself right in your backyard.

There are two basic types to choose from - gas fire pits and wood burning fire pits. The easiest to make is a wood burning fire pit because in its simplest form all you have to do is dig a hole. You can also build a wood burning fire pit with brick, stone or landscaping blocks. The only limit is your imagination just make sure your structure is strong and provides ample separation space between you and your fire. Very importantly you need to make sure you don't dig through your electrical, gas or sewer lines. You can call your utilities and have them marked so you don't cause a minor disaster. Also check with your local fire department to be sure your fire pit will meet all of their regulations.

Gas burning fire pits are usually decorative in design and of course are designed to hold up to the outdoor elements. Lots of different designs are available. Some can even be used for cooking if you get all the accessories. They are built with various materials including stone, brick, concrete or iron and come with decorative logs. The logs aren't real of course. The flames are produced by burning natural gas or propane.

All gas fire pits use the same basic design to work. You have a housing that holds the gas line input from your gas source. On top of this housing is your heat resistant bowl. One or more gas burners stick through the bowl. Then you have your imitation logs that cover the burners and fill up the bottom of the bowl. Depending on the design or style you can also add rock, gravel or other decorative stones in the bottom of the bowl but you have to be careful not to block the ends of the burners. They usually have an igniter or switch to help light the burners and get your fire started.

Even though the gas supply system has some safeguards built in the gas fire pit can be dangerous. Not because it is gas but because it produces a fire. Whether you have a gas or wood burning fire pit be very careful of the flames and the hot surfaces. It's easy to forget how hot the components will be after just a little while of operation. Sparks and contact with hot coals can burn your skin in a fraction of a second not to mention start your clothes on fire. Both gas and wood burning fire pits add a touch of class to any outdoor space, just remember to respect them during their use and you'll have many years of enjoyment.

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