When you mention fire pits to someone, it's amazing how often they have a very specific idea about what a fire pit actually is. And yet the reality is that there's a huge range of fire pits available, which can make choosing the right one for you more difficult.
Fire pits can be permanent or portable, suitable for bonfires, barbecues or heating, use different fuel sources, come in different sizes and styles, and have different accessories. When you pit all those variables together, it's no wonder that choosing the right fire pit can be confusing! Let's take a look at some of the most popular designs.
The chiminea is a very attractive fire pit design. Basically, it's a circular, squat tub that sits above the ground, usually supported on three feet. Traditionally it was made of ceramic, although modern variations come in other materials such as cast iron or metal. It can be used to cook food and also provide heat by burning wood logs. Modern versions still maintain the same rounded body and cylindrical stovepipe, and there's a small hole in the side of the bowl where you can feed wood onto the fire.
You might prefer an in-ground, permanent fire pit design. These begin as a hole dug into the ground, then are usually lined with a small wall of stone that extends above the ground. These rocks or bricks help to insulate the fire from the soil, as well as blocking the wind. You can use an in-ground fire pit as a type of campfire in your own backyard, and you can add a grill on top for cooking. A sunken fire pit can't be moved, but they are considered safer than using an open fire built straight onto the ground.
If you're keen to have a wood fire pit, but don't want a permanent hole in the ground, then take a look at some of the portable above ground units. Copper bowls are very popular, with a dish to build the fire in and metal supports to hold it up. You can also get above ground fire pits that are square or rectangular, and many have spark screens over the flames. That way fresh air gets in but the flames and sparks can't escape. You can take you portable fire pit to the beach, woods or anywhere you like, so they?re very versatile. Some enclosed fire pits have the option of adding a rotisserie bar, a flat grill for barbecuing and an ash pan that's easy to remove and clean. You can also use coals instead of wood.
It's also possible to buy fire pits that are fuelled by gas rather than wood or coals. Generally, this type of fire pit will need to be permanent, so that it can remain connected into your natural gas lines. A few designs do run on propane and can be moved around. A gas fire pit usually contains ceramic or concrete logs for a nice effect. They come in a range of shapes, but don't need a spark screen. A gas fire pit can also be a good choice if wood fires are disallowed in your neighborhood.
Whichever fire pit you choose, if you've taken the time to think about what you plan to use it for beforehand, you'll be happy with your choice.
If you want to read more about fire pits, click over to Josh's site at http://www.infoaboutfirepits.com
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