Fire Pit vs. Fireplace

 In Landscaping and Hardscaping

With the cooler weather approaching, it is time to think about spending a beautiful night in your backyard, around a fire with family and friends. Maybe you are thinking about installing a new fire pit. Maybe an outdoor fire place is more your style. Each option has its pros and cons – depending on your needs and desires. Consider the following main points when deciding which option will work best in your backyard.

Space: How many people do you plan on entertaining? How much space do you have to spare?

These are very important questions to ask before beginning the project. Fire pits are typically smaller and take up less space, whereas fireplaces are larger structures that require more space. Fire pits can also accommodate more people – commonly eight to ten people. Fireplaces, because of their design, can only seat four to six people around the hearth of the fire. If you have limited space or want to entertain a larger group of people, a fire pit is the way to go. On the other hand, if you want a larger, more extravagant, structure, and don’t plan on entertaining more than six people, a fireplace is the best option.

Budget: How much do you want to spend?

Budget is another main factor to consider when choosing between a fire pit and a fire place. A fireplace will most likely cost more than a fire pit. However, a fireplace may add more to the value of your home than fire pit would.

Privacy: How much privacy do you want in your backyard?

Since fireplaces are bigger and typically found adjoining a patio or other structure, they will give you more privacy than a fire pit would. Fire pits won’t add any privacy from your neighbors since they are typically placed in an open space of your backyard.

Aesthetics: What look are you going for?

Because a fireplace is larger, you have a lot more flexibility on the design and looks. A fireplace will allow you to get creative and develop it according to your personality. If you’re looking for a multifaceted design that really stands out, this might be the best option for you.

Fire pits also have many design options, but because they are smaller structures you are somewhat limited in comparison to fireplaces. You can do a square or round fire pit. You can use pavers or natural stone. You can even add lava rock or recycled glass into the mix to add a pop of color and a unique look.

To sum it all up, before starting a fire pit or fireplace project, evaluate your backyard and figure out how much you can spend and what you can fit into the space allotted. Be creative and come up with something that suits you and your family’s wants and needs. And most importantly, enjoy the time you spend sitting around a warm fire with a glass of wine and the people you love.

 

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