A fire pit can be a great addition to any backyard or outdoor living space, providing warmth and ambiance on cool nights. However, it’s important to make sure that the bottom of your fire pit is properly prepared in order to ensure safety and prolong the life of your firepit
The first thing to consider when preparing the bottom of a fire pit is the type of material you will use. The most common options include gravel, sand, and lava rocks. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Gravel is one of the most popular options for the bottom of a fire pit. It is inexpensive, easy to find, and provides good drainage. However, it can be difficult to keep the fire pit level if the gravel is not compacted properly. It also tends to retain heat, which can be dangerous if the pit is not properly maintained.
Sand is another popular option for the bottom of a fire pit. It is inexpensive, easy to find, and provides good drainage. However, it can be difficult to keep the fire pit level if the sand is not compacted properly. It also tends to retain heat, which can be dangerous if the pit is not properly maintained.
Lava rocks are a more durable option for the bottom of a fire pit. They are heat resistant and can withstand high temperatures without cracking or breaking. They are also easy to find and relatively inexpensive. However, they can be heavy and difficult to move, making them less than ideal for portable fire pits.
- Another option for the bottom of a fire pit is metal. Stainless steel, for example, is a popular choice. It is heat-resistant, durable, and can be cut to fit any size fire pit. However, it is more expensive than the other options and can be difficult to find.
- Whichever material you choose for the bottom of your fire pit, it’s important to make sure that it is level and compacted properly. This will help to prevent fires from spreading and will prolong the life of your fire pit.
- It’s also important to remember that the bottom of your fire pit should be at least 12 inches from any combustible materials, such as decks or overhanging branches. This will help to ensure that your fire pit is safe to use and will not cause any damage to your property.
In addition to the material you use for the bottom of your fire pit, it’s also important to consider the size and shape of your fire pit. The size and shape of your fire pit will determine how much space you have to work with and how much fuel you will need to keep your fire going.
A round fire pit is the most common shape, but square and rectangular fire pits are also popular. A round fire pit is easier to light, but a square or rectangular fire pit may provide more space for larger fires.
- When it comes to size, the fire pit should be large enough to accommodate the size of the fire you want to create, but not so large that it takes up too much space in your backyard. A fire pit that is too large will also require more fuel to keep the fire going, which can be expensive.
In Conclusion
The bottom of a fire pit is an important consideration when setting up your backyard fire pit. Choosing the right material and making sure that it is level and compacted properly will help to ensure safety and prolong the life of your fire pit. It’s also important to consider the size and shape of your fire pit, as well as the distance from any combustible materials. With these considerations in mind, you can be sure that your fire pit will provide you with many years of warmth and ambiance.
