Outdoor Firepit Varieties
Despite the chill in the air that fall brings, many homeowners don't like the idea of giving up their outdoor living spaces just to escape the cold. For these people, outdoor firepits are an ideal solution for making it possible to continue using the backyard during the fall and winter months. Starting as low as $50 and ranging as high as $2,800, there is a firepit available for every budget and style. Choosing the right one will depend on both of these things, as well as what you want to use it for and how often you plan to use it. While there are firepits that can be used both for heating and for cooking, we'll focus on the ones that mainly heat. Portable fire pits are large bowls set on legs, generally made of metal such as copper or cast iron; they can also be ceramic. Some come with mesh lids, wheels, and/or removable grills for cooking on. These outdoor firepits are ideal for those wanting an inexpensive, portable outdoor heating source. Similar to portable firepits, fire pit tables are also large bowls, and are made of metal or ceramic. The main difference is that these outdoor firepits are built into an outdoor table, or have a table-like rim around the edge, in order to do double duty as a table and a heating source. A chiminea firepit is a very pretty twist on outdoor heating. These firepits have a tall chimney-like top, and are taller than they are wide. The pit itself is round, and the whole thing is set on short legs. As with other types of firepits, chimineas come in copper, cast iron, and even terra cotta. A Sojoe firepit is also a nice twist on outdoor heating. While similar in nature to the portable firepits, in that they too are portable, they are made of heavy cold-rolled steel. Incredibly long lasting, sojoes often have designs on the side, as well as optional features such as pokers, removable cooking grills, and covers. You can also get an optional screen Gas firepits, which come in many different styles and varieties, avoid the hassle of cleaning up firewood and ash, while still providing the ambiance of an open flame. These outdoor firepits operate on natural gas or propane. Permanent outdoor firepits are also a popular option, especially among the do-it-yourself types. Homemade ones require digging a hole and then lining it with either brick or stone, and then adding a ring around the outside, generally made of copper or steel. You also have the option of hiring a contractor to build one specifically designed to your plans. No matter which firepit you decide is right for your outdoor living space, be sure to check with your local fire department for any relevant fire regulations. An outdoor firepit can let you continue enjoying your backyard or patio, but should be used safely and according to any regulations. |