It can get stressful and hazardous if you’re not aware of how to place a fire pit on a wooden deck. Fire pits provide a fantastic way to relax during a cool evening, but if you want to put it on a wooden deck, you must be aware of certain things.
Perhaps you’re unsure whether it is safe to position a fire pit on a wooden deck. What fire pit types can I use on a wooden deck, and how do I avoid damage? Indeed, wooden decks are more prone to catching fire because of their material; however, if you use them correctly, you can enjoy your fire pit on a wooden deck.
Here, we will reveal the do’s and don’ts when placing a fire pit on a wooden deck.
Location
Do: It’s imperative to choose a location that is away from any flammable items, including your home, furniture, or extensions. Furthermore, your fire pit should be a minimum of 10 feet from your home and other belongings.
Don’t: Never position your fire pit near any item that can easily catch fire. On windy days, the fire in your fireplace can easily travel beyond, putting your home and belongings at greater risk. Therefore, always measure and ensure the fire is at least 10 feet from any flammable object.
Protective Surface
Do: Use a fire pit pad to shield your deck from gas and ashes. These pads are available in varied materials like stone and metal to protect the wood on your deck around your fire pit. Even when using a fire pit pad, you should not place a fire bowl directly on top of it, so always use the stand you get with your fire pit.
Don’t: You should not place your fire pit straight on a wooden deck. The flying sparks, ash, embers, and heat can severely damage your deck and lead to a risky fire.
Spark Screens
Do: Investing in a fire pit spark screen for extra protection against flying sparks is prudent. It will avert embers from going into the air and burning nearby items. You should have a poker tool to control the logs and flames in your outdoor fireplace easily.
Don’t: Refrain from having an open flame on your fire pit. Ensure shielding the fire with proper accessories to hold the sparks and embers from travelling, especially in windy conditions.
Added Layers
Do: Create an added layer between the wooden deck and the fire by pouring a couple of inches of sand at the bottom of the fire pit before lighting it up. It will offer additional protection.
Don’t: Never light up a fire without placing an additional layer, even if you have your fire pit on a stand and a pad surrounding the deck’s surface. Furthermore, having a layer of sand at the bottom of your fire pit will lengthen the quality and effectiveness of your fire pit pad.
Weather Conditions
Do: Relaxing near a fire pit on a wooden deck is perfect for colder climatic conditions. A slight air breeze won’t cause the fire to travel through and catch nearby belongings.
Don’t: Using your fire pit in windy conditions is not recommended, especially on a wooden deck. Fire can easily travel in windy conditions, putting your deck, house, and other belongings at greater risk.
What are the recommended types of fire pits on a wooden deck?
Typically, fire pits made using cast iron or metal and are supported by firm legs to keep them off the ground are perfect options. If you already have a similar wood-burning fire pit, you can proceed with it.
Wrapping Up
It is risky to operate an outdoor wood fireplace on a wooden deck. Still, with proper precautions, following these safety tips and using the appropriate fire pit, you’ll love a worry-free evening enjoying the fire on your patio.
So, select a safe location in your outdoor space, use a protective surface, add an extra layer to the bottom, invest in a spark screen, ensure the weather conditions are perfect and monitor the fire thoroughly.
You’ll get high-quality fireplaces in Wollongong from leading brands, including Blaze, Brunner, Euro, Nectre, Regency, Heatmaster and Pacific Energy.
