If you’re drawn to the hypnotic allure of an outdoor fireplace or fire pit, you are not alone; both outdoor fire features are popular among homeowners in the Columbus, OH, area. However, unless you want one of each, you will have to choose between them. The great thing is, they both provide benefits you won’t get with any other outdoor living structure. If you love a good campfire, you know what we’re talking about.
To start, let’s make a list of pros and cons.
Outdoor Fireplace
Pro: A stunning focal point and anchor for your outdoor living space
Pro: More romantic; provides more privacy
Pro: More likely to increase your home’s value
Pro: Can include a mantel as an additional decorative element
Pro: Can easily be designed with a woodbox for wood storage
Pro: If you choose a gas-burning fireplace, you can have realistic-looking logs with none of the mess
Con: Usually more expensive than a fire pit
Fire Pit
Pro: Gives off more heat for warmth
Pro: Can accommodate more people gathered around all sides
Pro: Better for roasting marshmallows (but only with a wood fire, not gas)
Pro: Won’t obstruct the view of your landscape
Pro: If you choose a gas-burning fire pit, you can fill it with tempered glass beads or chips that glow in beautiful colors
Pro: More economical to build than a fireplace
Con: Less visual impact
Some features equally apply to the fireplace and the fire pit:
- They can each be designed to burn wood or gas
- Either can work with a patio or a deck
- Both provide light and a relaxing ambiance
As you read through the lists above, what aspects resonate with you? Will cost guide your decision, or will aesthetics rule? Are you expecting to entertain a bunch of people, or are you planning cozy, romantic evenings for two?
Archadeck of Columbus can provide you with information to help you make your decision, but we can’t make it for you. What’s more, after you cross that hurdle, you’ll have another decision to make: will your chosen fire feature burn wood or gas?
Again, there are reasons for selecting a wood-burning fireplace or fire pit and reasons for selecting one that is gas-burning. Wood fires are more difficult to start and require more effort to keep burning and to clean up, but they have bigger flames and provide the authentic fire experience. With a gas-burning fire pit, you have the option of using black lava rock, which is more affordable than tempered glass beads. A gas-burning fire is safer on a deck, compared to a wood fire, because it won’t produce sparks.
In case you think the decisions have all been made — wait, there’s one more. What material will you use to build your outdoor fireplace or fire pit? Archadeck of Columbus can show you a variety of beautiful options including natural stone, bricks or pavers. We have found that sandstone is best, if you prefer natural stone. Meanwhile, many of our clients select the Brussels Dimensional Paver System by Unilock. This system consists of multi-sized tapered components, allowing for easy construction of curved walls, kitchen islands, fire pits, fireplaces and more. Not only does this system enable your fire feature to look the part, it is also a very affordable option.
Are you ready to get started, or do you need more information? Either way, contact Archadeck of Columbus today to talk about installing an outdoor fireplace or fire pit to enhance your outdoor living space. You can reach us at (740) 265-3905.
— The Archadeck of Columbus Team.
