Fire pits add beauty, ambiance and a way to spend more hours out of doors even when the nights aren’t as warm as they were when summer kicked off! The swimming pool contractors from Hawaiian Pools explain that a fire pit can be used in the midst of a summer night because you can cook a meal, roast marshmallows or just relax to the sounds of a fire when you’re entertaining poolside.
There are several types of fire pits including pre-fabricated ones or custom designed. In addition to deciding if you want a fire pit built on site or if you choose a pre-fab you will also need to decide what kind of fuel you want to burn and where you want it placed.
Here are decisions you need to make prior to construction:
- Make certain that open burning is allowed in the community in which you live.
- The fire pit will need to be constructed on a fireproof, stable piece of land or natural stone base. Having a fire pit simply placed in a bare space in your yard may not be the best idea because it could shift with the weather or even move if you get too much rain or snow. Whatever foundation you use, should be fireproof. There are many options you can choose from that will add to the aesthetics of your outdoor living space and swimming pool.
- What kind of fuel do you want to burn? The type wood you want to burn will also determine the type of fire pit model you invest in. If you chose to burn wood, you will want to use hard woods like oak or cedar.
- Where will you place it? The area on which it’s placed needs to be fireproof and stable. Choose from granite, slate, flagstone or a cement slab to hold the fire pit. It should be situated away from overhanging trees and any outbuildings. A rule of thumb is to keep at least twelve feet of space between the fire pit and anything flammable – including outdoor furniture.
- If it’s windy you will have a hard time getting the fire lit and to stay lit. There is also a greater possibility of embers flying out of the structure and burning someone or causing property damage. Use the fire pit when the conditions are safe.
- Keep any errant sparks contained by using a mesh cover. This won’t impact the enjoyment you have around your fire pit and will not impact the ambiance, or the warmth generated.
- Just as you’d never leave anyone unattended in the swimming pool you should never leave your fire pit unattended.
- Always use a cover or door on your fire pit. A mesh cover will allow you to see and hear the dancing flames but will act as a safety measure to keeping any sparks from leaving the fire pit.
- The fire should always be completely extinguished before you leave the outdoor living area.
- When you’re done with the fire, make certain the fire is extinguished.
If you would like to spend more time around the pool in the evenings or when the nights are cooler, consider adding a fire pit. We can show you how to incorporate a fire pit into your overall pool design.
