Get Fiery Outdoors this Autumn/Winter!

by Christine Bernardo April 30, 2019

Fire pits have become a popular feature to outdoor living spaces, providing a warm, inviting and some times a dramatic aesthetic. The smell of wood burning in a fireplace or pit is usually a positive association of camping, good times with family & friends or beach bonfires during colder months.

Like moths to a flame, you and your guests will be drawn to a fire pit to relax, enjoy food and drinks, get warm, and enjoy one another's company. If you are considering a fire pit, there are a couple of options - permanent built in fire pits can truly complement a home and landscape, they can be a great DIY or custom project but do take some time and effort. Portable fire pits are a popular alternative to a fixed one and can be readily purchased or custom made for use.

Where to Put the Pit?

An obvious place for a pit is a backyard, on or adjacent to a patio or near a pool or spa. Think about where you are most likely to use it and where it best suits for entertaining purposes?

When considering where to place a fire pit, a good rule of thumb is to provide at least 7 feet of space around all outer edges of a fire pit. This will allow for plenty of room for furniture and traffic space. It is always better to have too much space as opposed to too little, so best to be on the safe side.

With safety in mind, select a site that is a reasonable distance from your house or other buildings, away from fuel storage, supply lines, and clear of low-hanging tree or shrub branches.

Size of Pit?

The size of the pit should be considered when you have selected a location. Of course, there is no ideal size for a fire pit or its proportions. Bear in mind if it is a DIY or custom project, you will need to scope if you have depth of ground for installation. Otherwise portable fire pits can be placed above the ground or deck and it will be a matter of determining what size will best suit your space using the rule of thumb mentioned.

Some Tips to Consider Before Using Your Fire Pit

Check your council regulations for use of fire pits and if permits are required
If you have purchased a portable fire pit, read the manual that comes with your fire pit and follow instructions. Call the supplier/retailer regarding any questions you might have.
Always keep a fire extinguisher handy and make sure it is in good working condition and not close to its expiration date. Use safety gloves when handling a hot fire pit.
Don’t place a fire pit in an enclosed area because fumes from it can be harmful without proper ventilation.
Avoid placing your fire pit near hanging branches or on an unsteady surface.
Young children should always be supervised around open flame, and should never stoke or tend to the fire.
If your fire pit comes with a protective spark screen, ensure you use it.

Once you have made your choice of fire pit and mastered the rules about safely using a fire pit, it's time to think about the decor for the ambiance you want. For a campfire experience, large rocks, rustic furniture and fire wood stacks can help to achieve this look. For a minimalist or modern feel, a sunken area with built in benches or modern outdoor furniture will help to create this look.

The Dress Your Space range of fire pits come in various sizes, in both a stainless steel or durable steel and all come with a protective mesh screen and heat resistant poker. Be sure to check out the Dress Your Space range of Deluxe portable fire pits in our showroom and talk to one of our friendly staff about which would suit your outdoor space.

firepit2 firepit1 Get Fiery Outdoors this Autumn/Winter!