The kids are back in school and the days are getting a little shorter. Both are sure signs that summer is winding to a close. Of course, here in the Sunshine State, the temperatures continue to rise into the upper 80s in September. And by November, we’re still fortunate to see the mercury reach up into the upper 70s range. Fall brings a drop in the humidity levels for sure so being outside isn’t nearly as oppressive as it can be in the summer months.
It’s a great time of year to spend time outdoors in the evenings with family and friends gathered around the fire pit. Of course, we don’t need the fire for warmth, but you have to admit the flickering light it emits helps create a comfy, cozy atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to engage in meaningful conversations or to rehash those memories that leave you with warm, fuzzy feelings. S’mores could become the favorite dessert choice, too. After all, we all have to admit roasting the marshmallows over the fire makes them taste so much better than nuking them in the microwave. Right? For that matter, the same goes for hotdogs as far as we’re concerned.
Fire pits create ambiance
Relaxing around the fire pit seems a natural thing to do. Watching the flames dance and hearing the crackle of the wood as it burns down to ash creates a relaxing ambiance of its own. But, when you take the time to design a fire pit that meshes with its surroundings and reflects your own personal flair—it can easily become the “pièce de résistance!” Backyard gatherings are sure to carry on at your place throughout the fall and winter seasons.
The materials used to create your fire pit lend to the ambiance as well.
Suitable materials
If your outdoor space is built using stone, a stone fire pit would likely be a good choice. You can design your fire pit to blend into the environment using the same type of stone used for outdoor flooring or other features in the space. However, you could also use a different type of stone to create a dramatic contrast.
Other options are available, of course, just make sure that the materials you choose can stand up to a fire and intense heat. The exterior of your fire pit doesn’t have to be fire-resistant but it must be heat-resistant. If it’s not, you’re likely to experience a meltdown… both figuratively and in real time!
The interior of your pit should be constructed using fire bricks because they are created specifically for use in fireplaces and pits. Don’t use river rocks or pea gravel in or around your fire pit because they retain moisture and might explode if they reach extreme temperatures.
The perfect spot
Deciding where to place your fire pit is an important aspect of your design. You want to create an inviting space, but you need to take some things into consideration. For instance, consider any low-hanging branches or vines that would be in danger of igniting. It’s recommended that your pit be at least 25 feet from trees and buildings. However, we know lots of homeowners place their fire pit directly on the lanai or patio. Just remember that the heat from the fire can also affect the surfaces of things placed nearby. Granted, the heat isn’t going to radiate as intensely as an all-out bonfire, but it’s good to keep that thought in mind.
If you’re placing your fire pit out in the yard, you might want to place it near your woodpile for convenience. And, we’ll mention that having the hose nearby is a good safety measure to take. Better safe than sorry, right?
Laying the groundwork
You need to establish a paver base to establish a stable foundation for your fire pit—and we’ll mention that even if you’re installing a small fire pit on your patio, setting up a base for it will protect the patio surface. The pit should be about one foot deep because it allows for those gathered around it to see both the fire and each other. Check for any local ordinances, though, because there may be specifications you need to follow directly.
Sand, lava stones, dirt, fire glass, or concrete slabs can be used to make up the base of your fire pit. You want to completely line the bottom of the pit to create a secure, level surface to build your fire in. This step also insulates your pit from dampness and keeps the fire from escaping underneath.
The steps to follow when laying down the paver base are:
- Remove all sod using a sod lifter or shovel.
- Tamp the soil down.
- Add gravel.
- Wet the gravel and tamp it down.
- Add another layer of gravel and tamp again.
- Check to ensure the paver base is level.
Once your paver base is down, you’re ready to install your ready-made fire pit or to begin building your own.
Feeling warm and fuzzy
We might not be all about hay rides, bonfires, and drinking warm apple cider during the fall season as is said to be the norm in other parts of the country but we get the connection between sitting around a fire and fellowshipping with friends and family. It’s a time to deepen our bonds with them and we may not even realize it’s happening. It’s a natural occurrence when we spend time together. The memories you’re sure to form will occur naturally too.
However you spend time with those you love this fall, we hope both the bonds and the warm, fuzzy memories last a lifetime!