Once you’re convinced of the many advantages of poolside fire features and have ensured all the crucial safety precautions are in place which we discussed previously (see Parts 1 & 2), you’ll be prepared to think about the different available fire features that will enrich your poolside paradise. Fire features can range widely in appearance from being simple to ornate, and they can also greatly vary in terms of how much work is involved when adding them to your pool paradise. Whatever option you select, you’ll soon be able to enjoy the warmth, crackling sound, and glow of your very own backyard fire feature!
Using Real Wood
Real wood fire features have advantages and disadvantages. Multi-sensory appeal, including calming crackling noises and the intoxicating smell of burning wood, as well as the option to cook over an open fire, are advantages. Real wood fires can, however, be dirty and necessitate a steady supply of firewood (and some of you can already feel your back hurting when I mention that!). If you do decide to use a fire pit, make sure it is encircled by decorative bricks or sizable rocks from nature. Plan for your fire feature to occupy a space of between two and four feet, with appropriate fire-resistant surfaces on all sides. Avoid burning species like Cedar or Pine, because they tend to shower sparks.
Your unique built-in fire pit can be designed and constructed by a landscape designer or contractor, who will ensure that it visually complements its surroundings. Some extra convenience can be provided through a low stone wall for seating which is positioned 2-3 feet from the built-in fire feature.
Portability
Fire features which are permanently situated in your backyard paradise are undoubtedly the most impressive-looking, but there are situations where you might prefer a portable version. For instance, you might not want to have to fully dig up and start from scratch if you already have a hardscaped area around your pool. A portable fire pit is typically composed of metal, most frequently copper or stainless steel. Any fire-resistant surface can be used for a metal fire bowl, but keep in mind that a wood deck is never a safe place for placing a portable fire pit. Ideal flooring materials on which to safely place a fire pit include gravel, stone, or brick. Your portable fire feature can be used with either gas or wood. Gas offers the advantages of being more space-efficient and burning cleanly.
There are two other non-built-in choices in addition to a portable fire bowl. A cast iron bowl would provide more heat if you don’t care about being able to relocate your fire feature (the cast iron will be very heavy, so where it is placed is pretty much where it will need to stay long term). A fire table, which is positioned at coffee table height, is an additional option to consider. A fire table’s aesthetic appeal can also be enhanced by chimneys.
Make sure the seating is made of nonflammable materials, such as metal or stone, regardless of the type of fire feature you select. Your visitors will value the extra consideration you took to ensure their security and comfort, enabling them to take in all the little elements you’ve integrated into your outdoor living area.
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