Outdoor Fire Pit Or Fireplace? How To Decide

Outdoor fire pits and fireplaces create ambiance in any outdoor setting, adding value to your home and increasing your enjoyment of outdoor living. Fire pits and fireplaces provide your yard, patio, porch, veranda, and other outdoor living spaces with charming places to gather and relax. If you’re dreaming of adding a fire pit or fireplace to your hardscape or outdoor living area, you’ll need to decide which is better for your needs and desires.

A Quick Look At Differences Between Fire Pits And Fireplaces

While fire pits and fireplaces have a lot in common, there are some differences that you should consider when deciding which one to install outdoors. Fire pits are rings typically built of stone or manufactured materials. Creating a social atmosphere, fire pits provide a place for people to gather and enjoy the warmth of the fire and activities like making smores with the children.

Outdoor fireplaces generally face in one direction and may have a chimney if they burn wood instead of gas. Where firepits are open all the way around, fireplaces are usually installed under a cover for enjoyment on rainy and windy days. When choosing between a fire pit or a fireplace in your outdoor living space, the following are some questions for you to consider.

Where Do You Plan To Put Your Fire Feature?

Fireplaces work best in small spaces and can be placed along a wall and under a covered structure. Fire Pits require more space and must be placed in the open where air can flow around the system. Consider your area and your region’s weather when choosing between an outdoor fireplace or fire pit.

How Many People Do You Want To Accommodate?

The circular, freestanding design of a fire pit allows many people to gather around it to enjoy its warmth. Fire pits can come in various sizes but are typically regarded as gathering spots for people to enjoy the fire in groups. Fireplaces generally face one side; therefore, fewer people can gather around them. However, some fireplaces can be designed to be open on two sides for added ambiance.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are leaning towards purchasing a fire pit or a fireplace for your outdoor space, make sure you have the system professionally installed. Depending if the product is intended to burn wood or gas, the correct fittings are essential to ensure it is safely installed in your outdoor space.