What type of fire pit lasts the longest?

Fire pits crafted from 304-grade stainless steel or thick-gauge Corten steel generally offer the longest lifespan due to their extreme resistance to rust and heat warping. High-quality Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) is another top-tier option, as it is engineered to withstand the elements without cracking or peeling like traditional stone or brick.

What is the best material for a fire bowl?

Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) is widely considered the best material for gas fire bowls because it is lighter than solid concrete but significantly more durable against freeze-thaw cycles. For those seeking a more rustic or industrial aesthetic, thick-gauge cast iron or copper are excellent alternatives that provide exceptional heat radiation and a unique patina over time.

Can you use a fire pit as a water feature?

Standard fire pits cannot be converted into water features, but you can purchase specialized fire and water fire pits designed with integrated plumbing. These dual-purpose features use a central burner for the flame and a separate spillway system to circulate water, creating a dramatic and luxurious focal point for high-end landscapes.

Are propane fire pits good?

Propane fire pits are an excellent choice for users who prioritize convenience and cleanliness, as they produce no smoke, ash, or flying sparks. They are particularly "good" for patios or wooden decks where wood-burning fires might be restricted or unsafe, offering an instant-on flame with the turn of a knob.

Which is better, gas or propane fire pit?

A natural gas fire pit is the better long-term choice for permanent installations because it provides an ample amount of fuel supply and costs significantly less to operate over time. However, propane is the superior option if you want a portable unit or wish to avoid the high upfront cost of running a dedicated gas line to your outdoor living space.

Fire Pits

Stay warm all season long by upgrading your backyard with our convenient gas fire pits. Don't forget to grab essential fire pit accessories like wind guards and weather covers.

How To Choose Your Gas Fire Pit

Choosing the right gas fire pit system comes down to fuel and materials. You need to start by deciding between natural gas and liquid propane. Natural gas requires a hard piped connection to your home utility line. It's highly convenient because you never run out of fuel, but the installation is permanent. Propane offers much more flexibility for your layout. You can use standard twenty pound tanks to power your system, which means you can move the unit around your patio whenever you redesign the space. Propane also burns slightly hotter than natural gas.

Sizing and BTU Output

Regardless of your fuel choice, you must pay attention to BTU ratings. BTUs measure heat output and directly impact both your flame height and your overall warming radius. Most standard fire pit systems push between forty thousand and sixty thousand BTUs, which provides plenty of warmth for an average seating area. If you want maximum heat for a large crowd, you will need to look for high capacity burners rated well over one hundred thousand BTUs.

Matching your heat output to your patio size prevents your space from feeling freezing cold or uncomfortably hot. You also need to keep fuel delivery in mind when looking at high output systems. A standard twenty pound liquid propane tank drains incredibly fast and can freeze up if you run a burner pushing massive amounts of heat. If your layout requires a wide heating radius, hard piped natural gas or bulk propane lines become necessary to keep the system running efficiently.

Disclaimer: These estimates provide a general baseline. Always consult your specific product manual, hire a certified gas professional for installation, or contact our product specialists to verify the exact BTU and gas line requirements for your project.

Material Durability and Custom Options

Once you settle on fuel, you need to pick a housing material that fits your climate. Here are some of the options you can choose from.

GFRC and Concrete Options

Once you settle on fuel, you need to pick a housing material that fits your climate. Glass fiber reinforced concrete or GFRC is incredibly popular for gas fire tables because it resists cracking under extreme temperature changes. It provides a heavy stone look without the fragile nature of traditional concrete.

Stainless Steel and Copper

Stainless steel is your best bet for internal components and burner rings because it actively prevents rust in damp environments and extends the life of your burner. Copper is a premium choice that develops a unique patina over time and handles heat stress exceptionally well.

Custom Enclosures

If you prefer a custom stone or brick surround, you'll want to look at a ready-to-finish enclosure. These frames give you a solid foundation to apply your own veneer while keeping the internal components safely housed.

Safety Certifications

Always verify your chosen burner system carries an ANSI Z21.97 certification to ensure it meets established national safety and performance standards. This specific rating proves the unit has been independently tested to handle real-world outdoor conditions like heavy rain and high winds. It also guarantees the ignition system and valves won't leak or produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in your seating area. Skipping this certification puts your property at risk and can easily cause your project to fail local building code inspections.

Expert Support for Your Fire Pit Project

Planning an outdoor heating project can get complicated. If you are still unsure about fuel types, BTU requirements, or custom enclosures, you do not have to guess. Our team of NFI certified specialists is ready to answer your questions and help you finalize your layout. Give us a call to get expert advice tailored to your specific backyard. Once you find exactly what you need, your new system will ship for free on all orders over $99.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fire Pits

What type of fire pit lasts the longest?

Fire pits crafted from 304-grade stainless steel or thick-gauge Corten steel generally offer the longest lifespan due to their extreme resistance to rust and heat warping. High-quality Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) is another top-tier option, as it is engineered to withstand the elements without cracking or peeling like traditional stone or brick.
What is the best material for a fire bowl?

Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) is widely considered the best material for gas fire bowls because it is lighter than solid concrete but significantly more durable against freeze-thaw cycles. For those seeking a more rustic or industrial aesthetic, thick-gauge cast iron or copper are excellent alternatives that provide exceptional heat radiation and a unique patina over time.
Can you use a fire pit as a water feature?

Standard fire pits cannot be converted into water features, but you can purchase specialized fire and water fire pits designed with integrated plumbing. These dual-purpose features use a central burner for the flame and a separate spillway system to circulate water, creating a dramatic and luxurious focal point for high-end landscapes.
Are propane fire pits good?

Propane fire pits are an excellent choice for users who prioritize convenience and cleanliness, as they produce no smoke, ash, or flying sparks. They are particularly "good" for patios or wooden decks where wood-burning fires might be restricted or unsafe, offering an instant-on flame with the turn of a knob.
Which is better, gas or propane fire pit?

A natural gas fire pit is the better long-term choice for permanent installations because it provides an ample amount of fuel supply and costs significantly less to operate over time. However, propane is the superior option if you want a portable unit or wish to avoid the high upfront cost of running a dedicated gas line to your outdoor living space.