Fire Pit Fuel Types

Wood Burning Fire Pits

Who doesn’t love the warmth and ambiance of a wood campfire? This traditional fuel source has been used for centuries. Wood burning fire pits can be used to create the perfect outdoor ambiance complete with the sound of crackling logs and smoky scent. Plus, wood burning fire pits can produce larger and hotter fires and are also safe to cook over. 

For tips on starting and maintaining a wood-burning fire, check out the blog article, “How to Start the Perfect Fire in a Fire Pit”. 

Our Pick for Best Wood Burning Fire Pit

Sunnydaze 42 Inch Large Cosmic Outdoor Patio Fire Pit with Spark Screen

Gas Fire Pits 

Gas fire pits offer the warmth and comfort of a fire without any of the maintenance or mess that comes with wood burning fires. These modern fire pits are powered by propane or natural gas and easily light and extinguish with the touch of a button.  Gas fire pits are also clean burning so there is no smoke, ash or embers to worry about.  

Our Pick for Best Gas Fire Pit

Sunnydaze Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit Table with Weathered Wood Look

Fire Pit Styles 

Standard Outdoor Fire Pits 

Traditionally, outdoor fire pits feature a basin-like design on three or four sturdy legs. These fire pits typically use firewood as the power source. The fire is safely contained within the bowl and the open design allows you to feel the warmth of the flames and easily access the fire for fun activities like roasting marshmallows and hot dogs. Many fire pits with this style also include spark screens to keep any stray sparks or embers safely contained within the fire pit.  This type of fire pit provides a great focal point for your backyard and is perfect for outdoor social gatherings. 

Our Pick for Best Outdoor Fire Pit

Sunnydaze 36 Inch Large Black Crossweave Fire Pit with Spark Screen 

Cooking Fire Pits 

We have always used fire pits to make delicious s’mores, but did you know they can also be used to create a variety of other delicious meals including roasted vegetables, chicken, steak and potatoes? In order to cook up your favorite meals over an open flame, look for a fire pit that includes a cooking grate or cooking ledge. A cooking ledge works like a skillet, all you need to do is add oil and place your food on the ledge, while cooking grates place your food the above the fire so you can cook delicious foods with a rich smoky flavor.

For additional tips for fire pit cooking, check out this article by The Kitchn. 

Fire Bowls 

Fire bowls have a similar design to traditional fire pits, except they feature a round bowl-like body that contains the firewood. Fire bowls often have a two-piece design which includes a fire bowl and a stand. The bowl fits into the stand for stability and a spark screen can be placed on top for protection against stray sparks and embers. Like traditional fire pits, fire bowls are great for social gatherings and feature an elegant open design that makes it easy to enjoy the warmth of the flames. 

Fire Tables 

Fire tables are a contemporary type of fire pit that combine the look and feel of an outdoor patio table with a traditional fire pit at its center. Fire tables are typically powered by gas for a clean burning fire with no mess and easily ignite at the touch of a button. Fire tables range in size and shape, some of them resemble an outdoor coffee table with a low height while fire pit columns have a narrower body with a taller height. Fire pit tables are available in a variety of styles from rustic to modern and provide a convenient surface where you can place a beverage or plate as you chat with your friends. These fire pits complement patio conversation sets perfectly. 

Our Pick for the Best Fire Pit Table

Sunnydaze 34-Inch White Contemporary Square Propane Gas Fire Pit Coffee Table with Decorative Lava Rocks

Fire Rings 

Do you believe that nothing can beat the look and feel of a campfire? Then, a fire ring might be for you. Fire rings are lightweight so they are easy to move from place to place and are made from metal for lasting durability. Fire rings are placed around a campfire, directly on the ground to contain the fire for additional safety. Fire rings can also feature unique cutouts to give any outdoor space a stylish look. 

Chimineas 

Chimineas get their name for the French word for “fireplace”. These wood-burning outdoor fireplaces feature a bulbous body with a vertical chimney and were traditionally used in Mexico for cooking and heating for hundreds of years. Chimineas provide comfortable warmth and the chimney directs smoke upwards away from any people who many be sitting around it, making it a great option for entertaining. Plus, chimineas enclose the fire for additional safety. 

Portable Fire Pit 

Fire pits aren’t just for your backyard. They can also be great for camping, barbecues and tailgating. Portable fire pits are built to move, making them easy to take on your next trip. These fire pits have a lightweight design that make them to easy to carry. Select models also have convenient features like folding legs and carrying cases so they are easy to pack up and transport.  

Our Pick for Best Portable Fire Pit

Sunnydaze 29 Inch Portable Folding Fire Pit with Carrying Case and Spark Screen 

Fire Pit Materials 

Steel 

Steel is a commonly used material for fire pits because of its ability to be molded into unique shapes and stained or painted with a variety of colors. If you’re considering a steel fire pit, look for one with a powder-coated finish as unprotected steel is susceptible to rust.

  

Tile and Stone 

Tile and stone fire pits are a stylish option that is commonly used for more permanent fire pits like fire tables. These fire pits feature solid construction with a steel frame and mesh body. Rocks or bricks are then applied to the body using standard masonry procedures. Tile and stone give a fire pit a beautifully crafted, artistic appearance.  

Copper 

Copper is a striking versatile material that can easily be molded into a variety of designs for a unique look. Plus, copper is highly durable and will not rust so you can use your fire pit season after season. In fact, over time most copper fire pits develop a distinctive green patina.    

Cast Iron 

Cast iron fire pits are durable, solidly built pieces that are capable of withstanding the elements. Because of their sturdy construction, it is very difficult to knock them over, and they are also highly resistant to rust so you can safely leave them on your patio or in your backyard all season long.  

Choose the Best Fire Pit for Your Needs 

Now that you know what to consider, it’s time to find the right fire pit for your yard or patio. Check out our wide selection of fire pits and find the perfect option to transform your yard or patio into a cozy outdoor sanctuary.