Types of Fire Pits
Tuesday, November 1st, 2011Fire pits and fire pit covers are available in a huge array of styles, price ranges, and sizes. If you are planning on buying or constructing a fire pit, it is best to get acquainted with the most common varieties on the market. The tinkerer will be happy to know that creating a fire pit is neither difficult nor expensive, but does require some determination and planning. Practically all peoples since ancient times have enjoyed spending time around a fire, whether to talk, sing, or cook. Archaeologists say that the oldest of human communities used fire pits as a personal bonding place, often conducting religious rituals, war dances, and group meals around a large fire.
Not all fire pits allow for cooking, but the standard wood burning fire pits do. They feature grates that hold food items, and some varieties even have small rotisseries. There are numerous devotees of wood burning pits, and cooking over wood. Some claim that food tastes better when grilled on a wood fire pit. A close relative of the wood pit is the portable fire pit, which is usually made of metal, and typically rests upon a frame and small wheels for easy transport. Again, a grate fits over the top for cooking purposes. In both cases, wood and portable, fire pit covers are recommended for reasons of safety and convenience.
Two of the most popular fire pits are copper and cast iron models. While cast iron runs a lot cheaper than copper, it does not last as long. One reason is cast iron’s much lower melting temperature, and gritty appearance. For those on a budget, though, cast iron is a wise choice. If you want to spend a bit more up front, copper is ideal. Its high melting point and gorgeous appearance makes it a favorite of yard designers and the artistic crowd. Even though copper costs significantly more than cast iron, its long life will likely make up for the initial price difference.
Simple stone fire pits, also known as campfire pits, are probably the most oldest of all yard amenities. The ancients used the hole-in-the-ground system, where wood logs were set aflame and surrounded by large stones. With a bit of elbow grease and imagination, you can even build a makeshift cooking grate or spit to go over the campfire pit. Some users cook rather large portions on these pits, even entire animal carcasses in some cases.
Gas pits are the most convenient style on the market, featuring natural gas or propane as fuel, and obviously no ashes or mess to clean up. Fire pit purists might consider the gas pit a sacrilege, but the gas models are indeed popular with many homeowners. As you begin to search for your fire pit, don’t be shocked when you discover the enormous variety of models available.
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