Beginner Tips for Installing Fire Pits
It ’ s been a rising trend for years now — fire features are in and show no sign of stopping . In particular , fire pits have experienced high demand thanks to the increased interest in outdoor entertaining .
Fire pits provide a natural gathering space in the landscape and also extend the season of homeowners ’ outdoor living space , keeping chilly temperatures at bay . If you ’ re considering adding hardscapes and specifically the installation of fire pits to your list of services , here are some of the design considerations to keep in mind .
Safety First The first thing to be aware of when installing fire pits is your local codes and regulations . While the exact distance varies depending on regional laws , a fire pit should be at least 10 feet away from the house or any other combustible structure or surface . In some locations , certain fuel types , like traditional logs may not be permitted .
The fire pit should be built on a non-flammable surface and if your client opts for fuel types like natural gas or propane that require plumbing , permits must be pulled , and inspections fulfilled for the necessary electrical and plumbing work to be done .
Material and Style In the same vein of safety , don ’ t make the novice mistake of thinking any material is suitable for fire pits . Regular concrete blocks are not meant to handle high heat and can actually explode . Stones used for a traditional campfire-style fire pit can crack and splinter if you don ’ t know what their heat rating is .
Installing a stainless-steel interior liner with the right amount of space between the liner and the fire pit material can prevent the hardscaping materials from getting too hot . Other common materials to build fire pits out of include corten steel , powder-coated aluminum and copper .
The style of the fire pit will depend mostly on the architecture of the home , the customer and their goals / needs for the space . Fire tables can pull double duty and provide space to sit drinks while keeping guests warm . Kadai fire bowls , which originated as metal cooking bowls in India , are one style that has been growing in popularity recently .
You ’ ll also need to decide if you want to offer custom fire pit designs or stick to prefabricated kits . While the kits are quicker and easier to install , if the majority of your customers are looking for unique solutions it ’ s best to create custom fire pits .
Orientation and Height As for the placement of the fire pit , take the time to walk your customer ’ s property and see which way the wind is often blowing . Placing the fire pit somewhere it can be viewed from inside the house can entice the homeowner to use it , versus hiding it in some out of the way part of the yard . If your customer has a lake view or some other appealing vista , consider placing the fire pit where they can enjoy the warm flames and take in the scenery as well .
The height of the fire pit is important as if it is too tall , homeowners won ’ t be able to prop their feet on the ledge . If a fire pit is too short people will have to bend and squat to get closer to the flames . A good rule of thumb for height is 12 to 14 inches tall .
Seating Options Ask the client how they plan to use the fire pit . If they expect to host larger groups of people , you ’ ll want to make sure there is enough room to place ample seating . If it is for more intimate usage , designing space for at least four chairs is a good rule of thumb .
If your client opts for permanent seating , don ’ t build the seating more than three feet away from the pit so they can sit comfortably and still enjoy the heat from the fire . If they decide to go with movable furniture , make sure to leave plenty of space for seating to be moved closer and further from the fire . People should have plenty of room to walk around and past the fire safely . ❖
This article originally appeared in NALP ’ s Blog on January 15 , 2021 .
18 MLP Newsline | March 2021