A fire pit can go a long way in affording homeowners the luxury of the comfortable outdoor living they want. It provides an avenue to bond with loved ones, sharing intimate moments and even be one with nature. There is a lot to enjoy when you decide to fit a fire pit in your yard. However, just like everything, installing a fire pit should be approached with considerate caution. This is especially true if you are a fan of do-it-yourself methods.
Here are some ways to ensure that your fire pit is in the best possible condition when being installed in your home:
Use the best materials
Whether you are settling for a fixed or portable fire pit, don't let the thought of acquiring something inferior and cheap cross your mind. Cheap materials put you at risk of starting a disastrous fire which could damage your properties and even harm people. Go for quality; it's worth it!
Keep a safe distance
Ideally, a fire pit should be at least 10 meters away from any structure or neighboring yard. Proper positioning will help in curtailing the spread of fire to combustible parts of your yard like bushes and fences.
No flammable materials around
The fire pit should be placed on a non-flammable surface, preferably patio blocks or concrete. Also, be sure to pick up any materials around the fire pit that can quickly catch fire like dried leaves, paper bags, and the like.
Fire pits shouldn't be placed on wooden decks or directly on the grass. It's best to keep them in the open. That is, don't consider putting them beneath low hanging tree branches or under a covered porch. Not only will low-hanging tree limbs or deck roofs be a fire hazard, but they also trap smoke around the fire pit making it less enjoyable for you and your guests.
Remove the vegetation
Landscaped yards will, most likely, have grasses and shrubs lying around. Of course, they add to the aesthetics of the yard. However, after selecting the spot for the fire pit, the vegetation around it should be removed. If no combustible materials are accessible, the fire has no chance of spreading.
Get the right depth
Ideally, the pit should be, at least, 6 inches deep and 2 feet wide. Having a fire pit of this dimension allows the structure to contain embers. After fitting the fire pit, pile dirt or rocks around it to stop fire spread.
Have a garden hose and fire extinguisher handy
Fire is a surprising element that can go out of hand at any time. For extra safety, keep a source of water, preferably a garden hose, nearby. With it, you can extinguish any escaping fire before it becomes something big to deal with.
There you go! While you plan to share special moments with people around your fire pit, remain safe. A quality fire pit will serve you and your family for years to come.