Are you considering investing in a firepit, or do you already have one?
We’ll explain why it is worth having one when it comes in handy, how to use one properly, and where to put one on your property. If you feel like getting one, we’ll also show you your options.
Whether you’re considering adding one to your home or just curious about the trend, here’s everything you need to know about firepits.
What is a Firepit
A Firepit is any structure constructed (mostly of metal) and designed to contain and control an outdoor fire in a confined space.
Firepits are meant for outdoor use and can vary in size and material. They can be made from a simple ring of stones or brick to a sophisticated metal ring or simply carved out of a masonry bowl.
Why Have a Firepit?
Firepits can be a valuable addition to any Irish home all year round. Whether hosting a social gathering or simply unwinding after a long day, your firepit could provide the ideal backdrop for cherished moments and unforgettable memories.
Spend More Time Outside
In short, firepits keep you warm and allow you to stay outside longer and enjoy your patio or outdoor gathering even more, especially during the summer evenings as they grow longer and the chill of the night sets in.
A Focal Point For Socialising
Even though outdoor gas heaters can provide some extra heat, there is something special about sitting around a real fire for a more authentic, primal, and socially bonding storytelling moment.
The allure of a warm, crackling fire becomes irresistible.
Aesthetic and Ambiance
The glow of the firelight creates a genuinely cosy atmosphere and an unforgettable, almost romantic ambience for the latter half of any outdoor gathering or party. Its enchanting glow sets the mood for intimate conversations, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws people together. Having one on your property raises its appeal and value, too.
Take a look at one of our options:
- The Sauda Fireplace is designed to provide an atmospheric light during the evening due to its open design. The steel with a bronze effect gives this garden fireplace a stylish, classic look to complete any outdoor space. It comes with a lid, a wood grate and a fire poker to help you manage your fire safely.
Dual Purpose Cooking
Firepit models also allow you to grill while gathering beyond making smores with an added BBQ grill attachment.
Here’s an example
- The Blazer RedFire Fire Pit offers more than just a mesmerising display of flickering flames from this Fire Bowl with a bronze effect. The integrated cooking grate allows you to savour delicious grilled meals at outdoor gatherings. You can also use it to roast marshmallows or create a mini barbecue. Its built-in protective spark screen and a poker that keeps stray embers in check ensure safety.
- The Dallas Fire Basket will ignite the warmth and beauty of your outdoor space. It boasts a powder-coated metal that gives the fire basket a sleek and stylish appearance. Crafted from durable materials, this firepit is built to withstand the elements, allowing you to enjoy its enchanting flames season after season.
When to Use Your Firepit
When it comes to the Irish weather, you could be using it all year round! Unless it’s raining buckets, of course!
Firepits are perfect for spring and summer evenings outdoors when the weather is cool but not too cold. Perfect for prolonged chats deep into the mild summer nights
Firepits are also portable and easy to store when not in use, so they can be used for special occasions such as barbeques, casual gatherings, birthdays, etc.
Where To Safely Position Your Firepit
When positioning your firepit, let safety and optimal enjoyment be your guide!
- Position it as a focal point in your outdoor living space, such as the patio or clearing, where you may have seating in a more extensive garden—wherever you have chosen to create a central gathering area.
- Like any Fire, you’ll want to protect it from the elements. Ideally, firepits should be sheltered from the wind in a sheltered area to minimise to maintain your fire’s stability and comfort.
- If the prevailing wind is blowing smoke towards your premises, try not to position your firepit too close to an open window or the main entrance to the house.
- When it comes to safety – gauging distance is essential. Maintain a safe distance of 10 feet from structures like houses, sheds, fences, overhanging branches and trees. Ensure your firepit has a safe separation radius from anything flammable, mainly if that includes decorations, soft furnishings outdoors or even garments that may be flammable. Clear away combustible materials like dry leaves, branches, or furniture from the immediate vicinity.
- Place your firepit on stable, level ground (not sloping) and ensure it is standing on a non-flammable surface.
- As an added safety precaution, be aware of your nearest fire extinguisher, garden hose, or bucket of sand nearby should you need to extinguish your fire quickly, especially in an emergency.
- Always supervise children and pets around the firepit and keep them away from play areas if it is lit.
How to Select the Right Firepit
Size, Material and style are vital factors when choosing the right fire pit for your home.
- Choose a firepit that is suitable for your outdoor space and relevant to the number of people you expect to entertain.
- Firepits can be constructed from common materials, including steel, copper, and stone. Steel is durable, copper has a charming look, and stone can be a permanent, beautiful addition.
- When shopping for one, ensure your firepit has a solid, level base to prevent tipping. Stone or gravel bases are the most stable options.
- Match your firepit to your garden aesthetic – there are industrial-looking styles, rustic styles or even contemporary-styled options to match the type of garden decor and planting already in place.
How to Use Your Firepit
It’s simple. Here are some of the things you need to remember:
Gather Your Fuel
There are different types of fuel you could be using
- Dry firewood: This burns more efficiently and produces less smoke.
- Kindling: Smaller pieces of wood to start the fire.
- Firestarter: This can be newspaper, firelighters, or even dryer lint.
- Matches or a lighter: To ignite the fire.
Building the Fire
- Safety first – Clear away any flammable materials around the fire pit.
- Start by placing some kindling in the centre of the firepit—use dry twigs, newspaper, or commercial fire starters. Use a long match or lighter to ignite the kindling. Light it in several places to ensure an even burn.
- Create a base by arranging larger pieces of wood in a teepee or log cabin shape over the kindling. This structure allows for good airflow and helps the fire start quickly.
- Eventually, larger logs should be added gradually around the kindling while leaving space for air to circulate. When placing wood, do so gently to avoid creating excessive smoke or sparks from escaping too far.
- Use your poker to adjust the wood placement and maintain good airflow.
Extinguishing the Fire in your Firepit
- The safest method is to Let the fire burn out completely.
- For a quicker solution, just douse it with plenty of water
- For safety – ensure that you have stirred the ashes so that all embers are out before you leave the firepit and area unattended. Your poker is handy for spreading out the ashes and embers, speeding up the cooling process.
- Dispose of your ashes safely in a fire-resistant metal container and not plastic or flammable containers.
- To maintain your firepit, be sure to remove ashes to prevent buildup.
Shopping for A Firepit?
If you need more advice and want to see our models in-store, do not hesitate to call us and get more personalised advice from any of our local Homevalue stores.
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