Building a fire pit is a great way to create a focal point in your outdoor living space. A fire pit with a cozy seating area will be a perfect centrepiece of your backyard paradise. A wood fire pit can be an appealing addition to any outdoor space, but it’s essential to understand the basics before getting started. If you’re considering building an outdoor wood fire pit, there are a few things you’ll need to consider:

• Know the local laws and regulations

You may need to get a permit before installing a permanent structure like a fire pit in some areas.

• Determine whether your area allows open fires

You should check with your local government to find out if open fires are allowed. If they aren’t, you may want to look into buying a portable propane-fueled fire pit instead of building one from scratch.

• Plan the shape and size of your fire pit carefully.

Many people opt for round pits that are about four feet wide, but the shape and size of your fire pit will ultimately depend on your available space and personal preferences.

• Choose between a permanent or portable design.

You can build a permanent structure that’s installed in the ground or create something portable so you can move it around whenever needed.

How much heat does it produce?

Fire pits come in different styles and sizes. The more powerful the fire pit, the more heat it will radiate. If you plan on doing activities around your fire pit like cooking food or drinking hot beverages, make sure it produces enough heat to keep everyone comfortable.

How long will it burn?

Some fire pits have a fuel tank that will last longer than others. If you want to use your fire pit for hours, look for one with a long-lasting fuel tank.

Does it require gas lines?

If you don’t want to hook up your fire pit to your home’s gas line, get one that runs on propane or natural gas cylinders. It is also essential if you plan on moving your fire pit frequently — tanks are easier to transport than gas lines!

Is it easy to clean?

Look for a fire pit with simple cleaning instructions and low-maintenance parts so you can enjoy it all.

Before buying, think about how you want to use your fire pit. Here are some features we think are worth considering:

Fuel type

Wood-burning and gas burners are the two main options. Wood-burning pits require a less initial investment and give you a more authentic campfire experience, but they are high maintenance. It would be best to store them properly, or they can rust.

Size

Small fire pits will heat no more than six people, while larger ones can warm large groups of people. A 24-inch diameter pit will comfortably fit four chairs around it.

Sturdiness and design

Some pits are made of cast iron, which is heavy but sturdy; others are constructed with steel mesh or mesh lined with lava rock. These lighter materials make it easier to move the pit around, but they’ll wear out faster than cast iron will.