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We're three weeks into January, and while some of the resolutions may be going strong, the sun's rays are at a lull. In North Austin's homes, we don't have to deal with the extreme temperature that a lot of the county does in winter, but we also probably aren't having any barbeques or pool parties. But don't let the January lows prevent you from spending time outdoors! Fire pits are the solution for bringing the heat to your outdoor gatherings. But, if you have a nice outdoor living space, you don't want to give it up for a few months yearly! Southern Love will tell you how and why.
Fire Good
Fire holds a natural appeal to humans. We can't ever seem to get enough of it. Perhaps that caveman brain instinct tells us it's a magic element that ensures our survival even in today's modern world. Whatever the reason, once we start a fire, everyone around it is drawn in and fascinated.
People love to gather around a fire, which makes it a natural social lubricant that won't leave you with a hangover. Start a fire, and the social sparks also fly.
Mmm…Toasty
One of the practical purposes of fire is that it keeps you warm. While this may seem apparent enough, it barely bears mentioning; many people forget that extending the outdoor entertainment season is possible with just a little extra warmth in our relatively mild climate. So if you love your backyard, your pit can make it inviting all year.I See the Light!
The other significant benefit of fire is that it provides light which further extends your outdoor entertaining. Once the sun goes down, you don't want your party to have to end. With a fire pit, your guests will be able to see each other and watch their steps long into the evening.Someone's In Out the Kitchen?
You can go a step further than a pit and build in an outdoor fireplace, pizza oven, grill, or whole outdoor kitchen! But, of course, you may still like a separate pit to use as a focal gathering place for you and your guests.Decisions, Decisions
Your pit is a relatively small investment for its benefits to your landscape. You can buy simple store-bought pits in the store, but some of the nicest ones are built into your outdoor living space with hardscaping. We make fire pits from stone, concrete, or brick. You must make some decisions to customize your pit for your lifestyle. You'll begin with what the primary purpose of your pit will be, then pick its size and material. Afterward, you'll have a couple of other choices to make.Gas or Wood Burning
Next, you'll want to decide what fuel your fire will burn. Your choices are gas or wood burning, and each has appeal.
With the gas-burning option, less work goes into beginning your fire. You can light it up on cue and don't need to have wood delivered or pick it up yourself. The biggest downside is that you will need a gas line installed and connected to your pit.
Gas line installation will require digging and possibly tearing up existing hardscaping if you already have some in place. You will also need to have your gas line serviced at least once a year to ensure it remains safe.
Wood burning takes less upfront installation costs but requires wood, so you'll need a source. However, if it's easy for you to get wood to burn, it may be a good choice.