Many people love to gaze at a fire. During cold months, they relax in front of the living room fireplace. As warmer months arrive, they enjoy the fresh air but keep it fun by adding a fire feature to their back yard.
By Wisconsin standards, no yard is complete without an outdoor fire pit or fireplace. It’s the gathering area for family and friends to hang out, socialize, and relax. Just be sure to have enough chairs and a few sticks for hotdogs, marshmallows, and s’mores.
Here are some backyard ideas to upgrade your outdoor living area with fire. Consider different options designed for the outdoors but which will also match the atmosphere of your home.
Fire Pits – Above Ground
Without a doubt, the most popular type of outdoor fire is a fire pit. They come in every possible style, size, and shape you can think of. You can build them yourself with rocks or bricks or purchase ready-built styles that are down-right luxurious.
When building a DIY fire pit, most are built above ground by simply piling stones or bricks in a circle with the fire burning inside of it. It can look similar to a campfire. If you want to add some flair to your design, add high-end materials such as exotic stones or interesting bricks.
Fire Pits – Below Ground
Fire pits can also be designed by digging down into the dirt and laying pavers or bricks flat around the hole. Think of a patio with a hole in the center for your fire.
Pre-fabricated Fireplaces
Not a do-it-yourselfer? Pre-fabricated fireplaces can be inexpensive to high-end, from modern looking to rustic. Most of these models are portable, used above ground, and made of metal. Stainless steel, copper, or cast iron will stand up to heat, is rust resistant, and durable.
Fire Tables
A very distinctive style of an outdoor fire feature is the fire table. It’s designed to be used as an outdoor table, but with just a few changes, it can also be used as a fire pit. The very center of the table is lifted off to reveal briquettes and is either a gas or electric powered focal point. The fire offers plenty of heat, and the table still has space to set down drinks and snacks. These tables come in a variety of sizes and heights as well as styles.
Fuel
Most backyard fire pits use wood to create a fire. Other options for fireplace fuel include natural gas, propane, gel, charcoal, or bioethanol. There are even electric models. As you look through your options, keep in mind how you intend to use the fire feature. Is it for heat, to enjoy gazing into, or for grilling?
Because of the wide range of varieties, look for one that matches the rest of your décor or your house’s brick or stone. A fire feature can be about function and fashion at the same time!
When using your new fire pit or fireplace, make sure to give it enough space. Do not have it too close to trees, the house, garage, or other flammable materials. Add gravel around the perimeter of the pit so the embers will have nothing to burn. Keep chairs and other furniture back.
Getting inspired? Call the professionals at Createscape Landscaping Service. They will design the perfect outdoor area with a fire feature to match your house, budget, and personality. Createscape Landscaping Services is an award-winning landscape design contractor serving all southeastern Wisconsin. The staff will work with you to create your perfect outdoor entertainment space. Contact us today!
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