Whether you purchase a great fire pit or build a new one on your own, an attractive fire pit in your backyard will create a cozy and elegant environment. Most homeowners install fire pits in their backyard so that their outdoor space can look much more refreshing.
Fire pits are available in various sizes as well as shapes. Apart from that, fire pits are also available in temporary and permanent versions. They will undoubtedly add functionality and style to your property. However, maintenance is one of the most important factors of a fire pit. Maintaining your fire pit will not only enhance its beauty but also its longevity.
In this article, we will discuss the top 4 tips that will help you to maintain your fire pits.
Location
Location is the first thing you should know while maintaining your fire pit. Remember that the right spot of your fire pit will impact the maintenance drastically. Fire is dangerous and you should remember this fact while installing your fire pit. It’s recommended to find a location that has some protection from the wind. This way you can avoid scattered ash or smoke problems. Apart from that, nearby overhang trees should also be trimmed regularly. If you have a fire pit in your backyard, you should clean yard debris from 10 feet radius of the fire pit.
Avoid Cracking
If you use your fire pit in cold conditions, the hotness might cause stress in the internal materials of the fire pit. No matter how expensive or durable a fire pit you use, the hotness in the cold climate will affect the molecules. When installing large fire pits in the cold region, make sure the footers are extended to the frost line. You can also install your fire pit on top of a reinforced concrete base to reduce the risk of damage. Cracking issues are very common for fire pits. So, you need to take extra precautions while maintaining it. Even though the initial cracks are harmless, but severe cracks will reduce the lifespan. You can also use a fire pit cover to protect your fire pit from harsh weather.
Know What to Burn
Many people don’t know what they should burn in their fire pits. Even though wood is the common material for burning purposes, but you should avoid pressure-treated wood. As per LinkedIn, pressure-treated wood releases toxic fumes and ashes. These harmful toxins not only damage the pit surfaces but also cause severe health problems upon inhaling. Hence, make sure you use dry and split wood. Don’t burn greenwood. You can also use wooden sticks to start the fire. However, other accelerants can damage or discolor your fire pit.
Remove the Ashes
Ashes are extremely acidic. This is why you need to shovel ashes from the fire put regularly. This is one of the most important tips as shoveling ashes will help you to prevent long-term fire pit damages. Once you use the fire pit, use a metal ash container and collect the ashes. Remember that embers smolder long even after the fire has been extinguished. So, make sure you douse the fire with water.
Conclusion
These are the top 4 fire pit maintenance tips you should know. Visible from a distance, fire pits are undoubtedly one of the greatest additions to your home. So, it’s your responsibility to take good care of them.
