The best part about investing in an outdoor fire pit is that they come in various types to suit your needs. It also creates the perfect spot to entertain family and friends on a beautiful chilly evening. You can also use it for camping and parties, among other occasions.
Here is what to consider when picking the right type of outdoor fire pit based on individual preferences:
Choose the Material
High-temperature-resistant materials are used to construct a long-lasting and efficient patio fire pit. Internally, an outdoor fire pit is usually made from brick and fireproof mortar or grout to handle high heat. Other materials used to construct fire pits include metal, ceramic, poured concrete, bricks, blocks, and pavers.
Metal patio fire pit
While other materials are also of excellent quality, metal is among the best, even for commercially available options that don't require building or long installation processes. A metal fire pit is made using three common metal types, i.e., aluminum, stainless steel, and cast iron.
Aluminum fire pit
The lightweight nature of aluminum makes it a popular material among portable fire pit options. Aluminum is favored for its lightweight build and strong resistance to rust and corrosion. Aluminum is also an excellent heat conductor, allowing even heat distribution across the pit. After all, this makes the pit easier to move around.
Stainless Steel fire pit
Stainless steel is equally resistant to corrosion and rust, while its high heat conductivity allows it to handle the highest temperatures and most violent fires. Regarding fabrication, stainless steel is one of the most flexible metals. Therefore, you can find many stainless steel garden fire pit options.
Cast Iron fire pit
Unlike aluminum, cast iron is pretty heavy. However, this property boosts its longevity and durability, making it the most heat-resistant. The thick-walled cast iron backyard fire pit types are built to withstand heat for longer periods.
This is why cast iron is an excellent option for people who want to use their fire pits more frequently and for longer. However, that cast iron is pretty heavy, so it's not the best for portable fire pit options. Keep this in mind.
On the other hand, it works in favor of people who want a stationary option and live in areas with aggressive climates, like windy areas. Similarly, this material is prone to weathering outdoors. So, you are better off going for a painted option to protect the exterior.
Different Fuel Types for Fire Pits
Outdoor patio fire pits also come with varying fuel types, with four being the most common. These include wood, propane, natural gas, and gel fuel.
Wood
A wood-burning fire pit uses wood and offers a warm, aromatic, and smoky ambiance. These are ideal camping fire pits and come in different sizes and designs. However, they are usually fitted with a removable screen to keep the fire and its remnants within the pit.
But you can also use these wood fire pits for other occasions, including fire-roasting food and snacks. Typically made from stainless steel, a larger wood fire pit bowl produces a bigger fire.
Propane
If you want a more convenient way to run your patio pit, propane-run ones are the best option. A propane fire pit is typically larger than other fuel types (except natural gas) and offers the best ornamental design options. Even ignition and switching off are extremely easy with these fire pits.
As it uses a propane tank, the fire pit also emanates consistent and even heat. This is an excellent option for people who want patio fire pits with a keen focus on the heating and warmth provided. Most propane fire pits are compatible with 20-pound propane tanks, which you can find at most local grocery stores.
Natural Gas
Natural gas fire pits are built for households with gas outlets in their outdoor patios. If you can install the gas infrastructure, you can also use it. Natural gas fire pits are also permanently connected, so they aren't portable.
However, unlike propane, you don't have to worry about running out of gas. In addition to blending with any exterior décor, a natural gas fire pit is the most affordable to operate and easy to maintain.
Gel Fuel
Gel-burning pits use a clean gel-burning fuel that doesn't emit any odors or aromas. While these pits aren't the most efficient and consistent heat emitters, they still offer a lot of versatility and portability. The gel-fuel fire pits are also very easy to maintain. Once you run out of fuel, simply refill or replace the gel canister.
Pick Your Design Preference
You can find an endless array of outdoor fire pit designs. Ultimately, you must consider the aesthetics you want, your space, the size, and how you intend to use the fire pit. Some of the common designs include:
- Metal BBQ Fire Pit: This option comes in a floor, wall, or tabletop fire pit design. Depending on the design, BBQ fire pits don't only allow you to enjoy the warmth. These versatile fire pits are typically designed with strong temperature-retaining materials like steel and cast iron. You can also use them for grilling and fire roasting. Some designs even allow you to use the fire pit as a cooler for drinks and snacks on a warm day.
- Garden-style pit: This fire pit design is typically made from metal materials, like steel. It is small and portable, making it easier to move around. While some designs are fueled by gas, most are charcoal or wood-burning fire pits, providing warmth and allowing for other heating activities, like grilling and fire roasting.
- Cutout round or hex-shaped fire pits: Like garden fire pits, these fire pits are great for heating and communal grilling or fire roasting. Everyone in the group is guaranteed even heating! The cutout design around the pit provides much-needed ventilation and heat dissipation for 360-degree heating.
- Flame ball-shaped fire pit: Shaped like a ball with multiple vents, this fire pit style is dedicated to effective heating, although you can find some designs that allow grilling and roasting. These fire pit styles also feature a portable build, so you can move them around.
- BBQ Fire Pit Table: This larger table-sized fire pit offers a more comprehensive utility. In addition to functioning as a fire pit, it allows you to cook, grill, and roast. It also offers storage space and working countertop space. Table options made from stronger metal, ceramic, concrete, or brick can double as a cooler to fill with ice for chilling drinks and snacks on a beautiful warm day.
In addition to a fire pit, the best outdoor patio fire pit suppliers also offer useful add-on accessories for their fire pits. These include accessories like mesh covers, tongs, and ash plates. These accessories go a long way to improving your fire pit experience and allowing for a cleaner experience.
Final thoughts
Various outdoor fire pit types and designs are beautiful because consumers can choose what they want. Highly rated brands like Sofwe give you the advantage of picking the type and design you want. Software patio fire pits are made using metal to reinforce their quality, longevity, efficiency, and heat handling abilities. But they come in different designs to suit your preferences – you can find anything from a tabletop fire pit to an outdoor BBQ fire pit table.
https://www.sofwe.com/products/patio-heating/patio-fire-pit/24-inch-hex-shaped-patio-fire-pit-wholesale.asp
