Everything you need to know before buying a fire pit

• The most popular fire pits.

• Can sit directly on the ground, be elevated with legs, or even placed on a pedestal.

• Available in a multitude of materials, most commonly low-maintenance metals or durable cast concrete.

• While many fire bowls have a thin edge, some have a wide rim that allows for additional functionality.

Style tip: Not all fire bowls are round. You’ll find square, octagon, and rectangle fire pits, as well as ones with shapely edges.

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• Function like a fire pit and outdoor coffee table, with a controlled fire in the center.

• Typically fueled by Natural Gas (NG) or Liquid Propane (LP) to allow safe, close interaction.

• Often available with an optional lid that covers the burner, creating additional surface area.

Style tip: It’s most common to see a fire table in front of a deep-seating group of furniture.

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• Elongated versions of fire bowls.

• Inspired by Roman decorative elements.

• Most include the ability to conceal a standard 20-pound LP tank.

Style tip: Fire urn styles range from casual to contemporary, depending on the design elements.

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• Can produce much larger fires than other fuel types.

• Require hands-on tending.

• Not suitable for use on wood decks or other combustible locations.

• Usually less expensive to purchase and operate compared to non-wood burning fire pits.

Style tip: All wood-burning fire pits should only be used in open spaces that are safe from other flammable materials.

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• Ideal for those who don’t want to use wood, or who don’t have the ability to run a natural gas line.

• Can be activated with the flip of a switch and allow more control over the flame.

• Cost more to run than wood-fueled ones and require refilling.

• Recommended use is with lava rock or colorful fire glass.

Style tip: For a clean look, opt for a hidden tank option. Alternatively, consider a tank cover, which hides the tank and functions as a side table.

Shop Liquid Propane Fire Pits

• Preferred choice for a permanently installed fire pit.

• Ignited with the push of a button or the strike of a match. Options available for electronic ignition.

• Require a natural gas line connected by a certified professional.

• Recommended use is with lava rock or colorful fire glass.

• Generally less expensive to burn than liquid propane fire pits.

Style tip: Because there’s no propane tank, most natural gas fire pits are low to the ground, making them ideal for deep seating arrangements.

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Exceptionally durable and low maintenance.

• Great for both wood- and gas-burning fire pits.

• Brands like Fire Pit Art, pictured, are handmade in the US and available in a variety of sizes and unique shapes. Inquire for custom options.

Style tip: Many carbon steel fire pits feature an oxide patina that's virtually maintenance-free and will mature and darken over time.

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• Often referred to as “weathering steel,” will begin to oxidize and take on a rustlike appearance when placed outside.

• Resists corrosion and will maintain tensile strength.

• Available in wood, natural gas, and liquid propane fuel types.

Style tip: Full oxidation takes close to six months.

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• Ideal for withstanding fire and weather conditions.

• Typically found in a natural, brushed finish and a (newer) powder-coated finish.

• Generally higher priced than other materials because of their high quality and durability.

Style tip: Stainless steel pits are typically sleek and contemporary, making them the preferred choice for a modern aesthetic.

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• Exceptionally durable in varying climates and do not chip, patina, or peel over time.

• Available as fire bowls and fire tables.

• Best suited for natural gas and liquid propane fuel systems.

• Available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and heights.

Style tip: Concrete fire pits tend to be heavy and are not typically placed on raised wooden decks.

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• Sturdy, easy to maintain, and withstand all kinds of weather.

• Frequently have aluminum accents.

Style tip: The polymer content allows MGP fire pits to be made in a variety of colors.

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• Commonly used for permanent installations and are not intended to be moved.

• Ideal for both wood-burning and gas fuel systems.

• Feature a naturally textured finish and are able to withstand any weather.

Style tip: R & R Living Fire Pits, pictured, feature handmade finishes in natural stone.

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Match-lit ignitions are budget-friendly and virtually maintenance-free. Simply light a match, hold it over the fire pit burner, and slowly turn the gas valve on.

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Push-button ignitions are operated with an ignitor probe and a button module mounted on the fire pit. Think of these ignition types like firing up a grill.

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Some fire pits are lit by turning a wall key while applying the flame from a lighter or long match.

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Electronic ignition systems operate with an on/off wall switch or a remote control. Some systems even have the ability to pair with your smartphone via Bluetooth. Some electronic ignitions can be operated by remote.

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HPC electronic ignition monitors the flame status, internal temperatures, voltages, and other important safety parameters of your fire pit. If the system detects internal temperatures are too high, an auto-shutoff function prevents your fire pit from overheating.

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