If you want to boost the appearance of your outdoor fireplace and fire pit, it might be time to add a fire pit or fireplace to these spots. These cozy components can make a great addition to any place. You can even use them to turn a yard into an inviting outdoor living room. However, there are a few things that you should know about these elements. Here are a couple of things to consider before adding them to your landscape.
How Do Outdoor Fireplace and Fire Pit Works?
For the most part, outdoor fireplaces are made with stainless steel, stucco, stone, and other fireproof materials. With that, there are multiple options for a fuel source. Some fireplaces might require wood for fuel, and others can use propane for a cleaner and reliable burn. While not common, natural gas can be used for these fireplaces.
Fire pits work in a similar way. They are designed with brick, stone, or other hardy materials. Plus, they can also be fueled by propane, wood, or other sources.
The Cost of an Outdoor Fireplace and Fire Pit
There are many factors to consider for the price of these components. The brand, installation, and fuel types can all raise or lower the costs of these components. In many cases, it can cost about a few hundred dollars for a simple wood-burning fire pit. On the other hand, a high-quality propane fireplace can sell for several thousand dollars.
How Much Heat Do They Produce?
You can expect a significant amount of heat from an outdoor fireplace and fire pit. Some outdoor fireplaces can generate about 30,000 to 10,000 BTUs of heat. While you cannot sit outside in mid-January without a jacket, these heating elements are the perfect way to warm up a chilly evening in the fall or spring.
Now that you know some of the basics of fire pits and fireplaces, here are a few things to consider when choosing one for your outdoor space.
Functionality
How do you plan to use the outdoor fireplace and fire pit? If you are looking to create an informal setting, you might want to install a fire pit. These components are a great way to bring in elements of a camp-like setting. Fire pits are also a great way to accent your space, and you can use other elements to boost your yard’s appearance. In some cases, fire pits are mobile, and they can be placed in different areas of your landscape.
However, a fireplace is always a classic element. These heating components provide a more intimate setting to relax with friends or unwind after a busy day. Fireplaces are the perfect way to have a quiet moment. With a fireplace, you can also divide your outdoor space between a living area and dining space. Along with its walled structure, you will have additional privacy from the neighbors, shade from the sun, and a barrier against high winds.
Design
With a fire pit, the design possibilities are endless. Many fire pits include a fire table with a burner in the middle of it. You can even customize the model for your space to include stucco, stone, tile, or brick. These designs can coordinate with the look of your home’s exterior. Since they are table-height, you don’t have to worry about a fire pit blocking someone’s view or creating a distraction during a conversation. Most of the time, a fire pit is used as an accent feature, but it can be added as the centerpiece of your design plan.
Fireplaces are taller and more prominent than a fire pit. However, you have plenty of options for a suitable design. You can use brick, glass, logs, or stone to decorate around the sides of the fireplace. In addition to that, a decorative fireplace mantel would be a great touch to your outdoor space.
If you are thinking of installing a fire pit or fireplace for your outdoor space, you might want to consult with a company that handles commercial lawn care services. Many of these professionals have experienced designers on staff who can help you choose the best option for your yard.
Budget
If you are budget-conscious, you might want to stick with the fire pit. You can usually find one for a few hundred dollars. With custom finishing options and features, the prices can rise significantly. An outdoor fireplace is a more expensive option. In some places, it can cost a few hundred dollars for these outdoor components, but it is a more stunning element for your space.
Heat
When you use an open flame with a fire pit, a slight breeze will dissipate all that warmth around your space. With a fireplace, the flame is blocked from any incoming wind, and there is no heat loss. You will notice that the heat is better radiated and the space is warmer. Along with that, smoke is not a problem with a fireplace. The chimney directs it away from your sitting area, unlike the smoke with a fire pit.
Safety
With a wood fire pit, you will have to be cautious about sparks flying around the seating area. However, a screen cover can easily eliminate the risk with these pits. A gas fire pit is a great option, especially if young children will be near the component. Most fireplaces contain the flame in a firebox. These doors, grate, and screen can keep everyone safe from the fire’s embers and sparks. The framed mesh doors also provide an extra layer of protection for visitors around the area.
With that, you know some of the options available for your outdoor spaces. A fire pit or fireplace can “wow” your visitors at your property. There are plenty of options for your commercial space. You just need to find something that can fit your needs and budget.
We Can Design the Perfect Outdoor Fireplace and Fire Pit
If you want an outdoor fireplace and fire pit for your space, Charlestown Landscaping LLC can help. Our team will assist you with those extra features that will make your outdoor space shine. Along with our commercial lawn care service, we can help you find the right elements to dazzle your guests. Please call (610) 608-3965 to schedule a consultation.