September 16, 2015

Warm Up Your Autumn Nights With a Fire Pit

There is something about the crisp cool air of the autumn months that encourages us to purchase and use backyard fire pits. Fire pits have really come a long way in recent years. It isn’t just about function anymore. Though important, style has taken center stage. Beyond style and almost equally noticeable is that fire-pits are not just fueled by wood anymore. Propane, natural gas, ethanol and even fire pits that use pellets are now quite common, and even preferred by many homeowners.

Styles:

Bowl-type fire pits with accompanying wire lids are among the more common design options today. They can be simplistic or ornate, three-legged or four-legged, big and beefy, or small and diminutive. Prices range from about $50 -$350.

Fire tables, another popular option, offer not only a fire element in the center, but also a place for those sitting around to place glasses and plates. Prices for fire tables can range from $100 – $1,600.

Fire rings are the most basic and least expensive choice. Prices range from $15 – $60

Fuel Types:

Gas: What is appealing about gas-fueled fire pits is their effortless, flick-of-a-switch instant controlled flame. And when you’re finished entertaining, extinguishing the fire is just as simple as starting it. These contemporary fire pits also have their shortcomings. They are more expensive to operate, produce less heat and the crackle and pop that wood produces is notably absent.

Wood: Wood is of course the traditional fuel source for outdoor fire pits. Their appeal is easily their charm. Who doesn’t appreciate the crackle, pop and aroma of a good wood fire? But beyond the charm, wood is a cheap fuel and produces exceptional heat. The drawbacks of wood-burning fire pits are they can be difficult to get started and keep going, and its smoke can also be an annoyance.

Now cozy up to your honey and pass the hot cocoa and marshmallows.

by See Jane Drill, Copyright 2015, All Rights Reserved