While the idea of building and enjoying a fire pit date way back, the rage for the backyard feature has increased in the past few years. Here at Whiz-Q I noticed this craze a few years ago. For that reason, we began to show homeowners and contractors easy and affordable ways to build these simple projects.
Whether your choice is out of natural stone, brick or tile, or out of segmental units like Pavestone or Unilock products, you must account for the heat of the fire. Traditionally you will see the use of "split" or "unsplit" fire brick that are manufactured to retain and insulate the heat to prevent any unexpected "popping" or tiny explosions of the stone material or concrete materials. Another heat insulating factor that some people are turning to is the use of metal rings that insulate the fire pit material and the heat of the flames.
The newest innovation from one of Whiz-Q's partners is Pavestone's newest Rumbled Wall Fire Pit. This pit features a metal ring and removal grate, adhesive, Rumbled Wall stones, and lava rock to create an entire fire pit without making any cuts! The coolest thing about the grate is that it is removable. That way you can use your fire pit to cook! It is really a nice innovation and very easy to install.
When I began to write this blog on outdoor fire pits, I cam across this article below. It really explains in Layman's Terms the different types of fire pits and the pros to using natural gas or propane to ignite the flames.
The Best Types of Outdoor Fire Pits
By Jeff Horn
The concept of having an outdoor fire pit is not really new. Traditionally, these decorative yet useful pieces were not so glamorous, in fact they consisted of a hole in the ground. Today, they have come a long way from their simple original version, offering potential customers a decorative and functional addition to their existing outdoor landscape. Types of outdoor fire pits can be numerous, but here are some of the most popular.
Tile & Stone
Many fire pit enthusiasts prefer a more refined and permanent type that blends in to the natural flow of the surrounding structures. The tile and stone types offer that convenience. Sizes vary from large landscape pieces to a smaller accessory, they can be tailored to the size limitations of urban or rural residences. Generally, the fire pits size should not exceed three feet.
These should also be a safe distance away from any structures, and before building one, be sure to check with the appropriate city office to determine if having one of these violates ordinances or fire codes.
The type of construction material used is crucial in determining long-term durability. For example, using granite, due to its non-porous qualities, will likely mitigate any cracking or major degradation to the fire pit. On the other hand, choosing a brick or other porous stone may put more risk to the overall integrity of the unit.
Metal or Steel
Steel fire pits take on a shape of their own. Many of these have a decorative and unique design that is ideal for allowing proper ventilation or admiring the fire dancing within the bowl itself.
There are basically two ways to go when it compares to metal or steel versions. A metal/steel bowl and a steel ring. Metal bowls are probably the most popular. They typically have 4 legs and are best suited for placement on the dirt or grass (since the metal can get really hot, it is not recommended to put on wood decks or other potentially flammable surfaces.
Propane or Gas
These are somewhat similar to their popular household BBQ counterparts. A gas or propane fire pit is simple and clean to own and maintain, and a typical kit comes with the special logs, hook ups, and rocks for decoration. Companies famous for their propane tanks (i.e. Blue Rhino) have entered the market to create good quality gas versions.
An immediate benefit to using gas pits is the obvious simplicity to use, quick cleanup and maintenance, and less restrictions when placing one in close spaces (since sparks and uncontrollable flames are not a huge issue). The downside of using this type is that it won't likely be as warm as the log fire versions, but then again, it also won't leave you smelling like smoke afterward.
Summary
All these choices offer a unique experience and you can't really go wrong with any of these. Choosing the right one for you is based on personal preference or outdoor limitations.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6323919
So what ever you choose to build your fire pit out of please be sure to take all of the safety precautions when planning, building, and enjoying your piece. It's also not a bad idea to have a fire extinguisher handy just in case. I know it may be unsightly, but it could prevent you from having ONLY a fire pit to enjoy.
Until next time happy building and please check out our website for different fire pit and fireplace options to add to your outdoor room! www.Whiz-Q.com
Derek Whisenand
Hardscape Specialist
