Differences Between Above-Ground and In-Ground Fire Pits

Extending outdoor living space is one the greatest trends ever, and fire pits are part of the appeal. With an in-ground or above-ground fire pit, your garden will no longer be the most underused feature of your home. It’s just human nature to enjoy gathering around a fire outside as opposed to simply sitting amongst the flowers, though flowers smell nice. Whether you have an above-ground fire pit or an in-ground fire pit, you will enjoy being outside more than ever. Learn some differences between in-ground and above-ground fire pits below.

Above-Ground Fire Pits

A wood-burning or gas above-ground fire pit is an appealing hardscaping feature that makes an excellent focal point. With a fire pit, you can enjoy being outdoors year-around, even on cold Connecticut nights. There are many shapes, sizes, and unique styles of above-ground fire pits. The materials used for the outside of a fire pit ranges from concrete and cast iron to stone and metal, though a fire pit can also be clad with tile. The important thing is to be sure the tile is able to withstand high temperatures and is rated for outdoor use.

You can opt for a built-in fire pit or a portable fire pit, whichever best fits your needs. Portable fire pits can extend your enjoyment of fires to another outdoor destination besides your own yard. Built-in fire pits can create an irresistible outdoor ambiance that increases the amount of time spent with friends and family.

It’s important to place an above-ground fir pit at least 10 feet away from your home and the neighbors’ yards. The fire pit should not have branches or a roof above it or combustible structures nearby. Fire pits are subject to regulation, and it’s important to check and see if your community allows open fires before you have one installed.

 

In-Ground Fire Pits

A primary difference between an above-ground fire pit and an in-ground fire pit is the location of the flames. In-ground fire pits are, as the name implies, below the surface. Sunken fire pits have fewer risks because out-of-control fires are less likely to spread. There are fewer dangers related to nearby combustibles when the fire is below ground. A unique risk of in-ground fire pits, however, is that they can be more dangerous for children and pets. These vulnerable ones can easily stumble into a fire pit and should, therefore, be watched closely during and after fires.

In-ground fire pits are also smaller in diameter than those that are above ground. Fires will necessarily be smaller, as well, and there will be fewer embers that might escape.

There can be remarkable simplicity to an in-ground fire pit. You can simply dig a hole a safe distance away from other structures and then place rocks along the bottom. The many options for an in-ground fire pit include building it into your outdoor patio with fire-rated materials.

Contact Northeastern Chimney

For installation, maintenance, and rebuild of your indoor and outdoor fireplaces, contact Northeastern Chimney. In West Hartford, Connecticut, it’s the only qualified chimney sweep company with chimney sweeps certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). Our knowledgeable experts can also help you choose a fire pit and a safe location for it. Contact our friendly professionals at Northeastern Chimney by calling 860-233-5770 today.