When it comes to patio fire pits, there are two types that take the pick: the wood burning and the gas fire pit. The wood-burning fire pit offers the classic nostalgic feeling of a campfire and allows you to enjoy the crackle and scents of burning firewood. Gas fire pits, on the other hand, use liquid propane to create flames. They can be alternatively connected to a natural gas supply.
Here comes the big question: Should you invest in a classy gas fire pit or the classic wood-burning fire pit for your patio? Don’t think too much. In this blog post, we will dive into all the important information to help you make an informed choice.
Gas vs. Wooden Patio FirePit: Pros and Cons
We have an understanding of the gas fire pit and wood fire pit, so let’s take a look at the benefits and considerations of both.
Gas Fire Pit:
Pros:
- It gives you clean-burning fires without the smoke and ash.
- It is quick and easy to ignite.
- It is an environmentally friendly option since it emits fewer pollutants and reduces your carbon footprint.
- It runs continuously and provides a steady heat source for your outdoor gatherings.
- There are zero to minimal fire hazards with gas fire pits, so you can rest assured while enjoying the heat.
Cons:
- It is more expensive than wooden fire pits due to the cost and gas line installation.
- The gas lines require careful handling
- It needs a large fuel tank, which may take up more space in your outdoor area.
- It takes a longer time to install compared to a wood-burning fire pit. Plus, it might require professional assistance.
Wooden Patio Fire Pit:
Pros:
- It is less expensive than gas fire pits.
- It is much faster to install and does not require professional assistance.
- It adds an aesthetic appeal to your backyard and a feel of rustic charm.
- You get an authentic and immersive experience, complete with the crackling sounds and scents of the fire.
Cons:
- It does not give you clean burning like gas fire pits. It results in smoke, ash, and potential air pollution.
- There is a high risk of accidental fires if not managed carefully. So it requires extra care and attention.
- It would be best to have a wood storage area to keep your wood dry and organized.
- It is harder to ignite and requires extra effort to keep the flames up.
- You must clean regularly to remove ash.
- It can become a fire hazard if not properly extinguished or attended to.
Factors To Consider When Choosing
Fuel and Storage:
Gas fire pits use liquid propane or natural gas to produce flames, while wood fire pits rely on plain firewood. Since wooden fire pits need to accommodate larger logs, they are often bigger than gas fire pits.
And when it comes to storage, wooden fire pits require a designated area to store firewood. This is to keep the wood dry and free of termites. On the other hand, gas fire pits require a roomy storage tank to hold their gas supply.
Time Needed:
Gas fire pits are faster to light up thanks to their convenient ignition buttons. Wood fire pits require a little more effort, plus you need patience to get the blaze going. But fear not; once the fire is up and healthy, it’ll keep you toasty until it’s time to add another log.
Energy Efficiency:
Gas fire pits shine bright like a well-fueled flame. Not only that, they burn cleaner and emit fewer emissions into the atmosphere. On the flip side, wood fire pits release way more emissions each time they’re used. This makes gas fire pits the more eco-friendly choice.
Installation:
Installing gas fire pits requires professional finesse because the gas lines must be properly set up to ensure safety and optimal performance. On the other hand, wood fire pits require no assistance. You can do it all on your own.
Costs:
Wooden fire pits come in various price ranges, depending on your chosen materials and design. The materials alone range from $300 to $800 or more. Installation typically costs around $50 to $60 per hour, with an average installation time of one day, bringing the total cost to $200 to $500. So, on the budget scale, a wood-burning fire pit will set you back between $500 and $1,300, depending on any fancy finishing touches.
When it comes to gas fire pits, however, costs may vary. This is because of their various materials, sizes, and placement options. Material-wise, you’re looking at a cost anywhere between $400 to $3,000 (or more). Professional installation for gas fire pits typically falls between $500 and $800, depending on the complexity of the gas line setup. So, the total for a gas fire pit might give your wallet a little shock initially, ranging from $900 to $3,800.
Maintenance:
Wooden fire pits require more maintenance, accumulating soot, ash, and logs that need regular cleaning. And you have to make sure that you completely extinguish the fire to avoid any unexpected fiery surprises.
Gas fire pits are low-maintenance and cause no trouble. Their clean-burning nature means no residue, soot, or messy cleanup. Just give the exterior a quick wipe-down, and don’t forget to cover it when rain or snow pays a visit.
Experience:
Gas fire pits may not leave a lasting impression on your clothes, but they offer hassle-free enjoyment. Wood-burning fire pits, on the other hand, embrace the sensory delights of crackling logs and give off a distinct aroma. It’s all about choosing the experience that ignites your inner fire pit passion.
Safety:
Safety first! For gas fire pits, ensure thorough checks for any gas leaks. You do not want to have those as they are very dangerous. Keep those gas lines well-maintained and practice routine safety inspections. As for wood fire pits, exercise caution and ensure the fire is completely extinguished. You should always maintain a safe distance from flammable structures as well.
Environmental Concerns:
Let’s talk green. Wood is a renewable resource, giving it some eco-friendly points. However, gas fire pits take the crown for cleaner burning and emitting fewer pollutants into the atmosphere. This makes them a breath of fresh air, particularly for those with asthma or respiratory concerns. Wood particles, unfortunately, can cause trouble for sensitive lungs.
Safety Tips When Using Either Fire Pit
Here are some essential tips to ensure your fire pit adventures stay fun and worry-free:
- Supervise the fire pit diligently while it’s in use, and never leave it unattended.
- Be prepared for any surprises. Keep a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand nearby. You never know when you might need to kill some unwanted flames.
- Keep children and pets at a safe distance from the fire pit. Let them enjoy the outdoor ambiance from a cozy spot away from the heat.
- Say “no” to liquid fire adventures. Avoid burning flammable liquids like gasoline or lighter fluid in your fire pit.
- Stick to the right kind of wood. Do not use treated or painted wood for your fire pit. Those chemicals can release toxic fumes.
- Keep your distance and ensure a safe zone by keeping the fire pit at least 10 feet away from anything flammable.
- Before leaving the fire pit, make sure the fire is completely extinguished.
Which is Better?
Looking at both options, it’s not an easy decision to make.
Wood fire pits bring that classic, crackling ambiance to your outdoor space. Picture gathering around the dancing flames, hearing the soothing sound of logs transforming into glowing embers. It’s a sensory experience that ignites nostalgia and warmth in equal measure.
On the side of the more modern gas fire pits, they bring convenience to the table with their instant flames at the push of a button—no need to fuss with kindling or wait for logs to catch fire. Just ignite the gas, sit back, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere without breaking a sweat.
So, which is better? Well, it all depends on what tickles your fire pit fancy. If you crave that traditional, rustic feel and don’t mind putting in a little extra effort to get the fire going, wood fire pits might be your flame of choice. But if you prefer the convenience of a quick and hassle-free fire-starting experience, gas fire pits will light up your life.
Conclusion
Ah, the grand finale! Now that we’ve explored the pros and cons, fuel choices, installation considerations, costs, maintenance, and safety tips, it’s time to make the ultimate fire pit decision.
Here’s the bottom line: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the age-old battle of wood-burning versus gas fire pits. It all boils down to your preferences and how you plan to use your fiery oasis.
Remember, the choice is in your hands (or, rather, in your backyard).
We hope this article has given you the guidance you need to make an informed decision. Whatever path you choose—whether wood crackling or gas hissing—we’re confident you’ll fall head over heels for your fire pit experience. So gather ’round, invite your loved ones, and let the flames paint unforgettable memories on the canvas of your outdoor space.
