Outdoor Fireplaces Vs. Outdoor Fire Pits: Which Is More Ideal?

Rest and relaxation in front of a fire is an activity people have enjoyed since the dawn of humanity. Few experiences allow your senses to become completely entranced as when you enjoy the bright warm cracking of an outdoor fire. When it comes to building a fire feature outside your own home, however, you may be torn between a fire pit and an outdoor fireplace.

Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces both increase the value of your home. Fire pits are usually cheaper than outdoor fireplaces. They are a good option for those looking for a social campfire aesthetic. Outdoor fireplaces are safer, stronger permanent structures. They stand the test of time and add more value to the home, often recouping most of their cost.

Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits are both great additions to your home. Studies have shown fires can reduce anxiety and lower blood pressure. You can also extend your outdoor season, especially in cooler climates. If you are deciding if you want a fire pit or an outdoor fireplace then keep reading to find what type best suits your needs.

Perhaps the most defining attribute of a pure pit is that it is often situated in the center of a space with seating circulating around it. Fire pits often mimic the campfire style of seating, with people gathered around in a circle gazing at the flames.

Fire pits are usually more exposed to the elements. They are often uncovered, and can be blown to and from based on the wind and weather conditions. If the fire pit is fueled by wood, this means the smoke can be unpredictable as well. Circular Seating

Outdoor fireplaces are often more planned and permanent structures. They are also often part of a larger outdoor room, rather than a stand alone object. One key attribute of an outdoor fireplace is it has a chimney, or a mock chimney. This allows smoke to exit upwards in a controlled fashion.

Outdoor fireplaces are often found along a secure wall. This means people often sit in front of a fireplace rather than around in a circle. Fireplaces are also less affected by natural elements like wind and rain, as they are more protected than fire pits.

A fire pit can cost anywhere from under $100 dollars for a cheap model from a box to upwards of $5,000. The average cost of a fire pit is around $700. This price reflects fire pits that are easily installed.

A fire pit that requires building, natural gas installation and design work will cost significantly more. These more expensive fire pits tend to last much longer. They can also add value to your home. Either way, a fire pit is an outdoor fire feature that can be achieved on almost any budget.

A price tag for an outdoor fireplace is typically much higher than that of fire pits. The typical price range for an outdoor fireplace is between $1,500 and $10,000. The price depends on building materials and the type of fireplace you want. Gas fireplaces with stonework and high chimneys will cost more than a simple brick fireplace that uses wood for fuel.

The ultimate outdoor fireplace setups, with televisions, personalized design, weather proofing, can be between $20,000 and $50,000. These fireplaces are often part of a larger concept that involves a large indoor/outdoor space. These fireplace concepts often include a grill area and possible water features.

Fire Pits can last anywhere from one year to an entire lifetime. The two key factors that go into determining the lifespan of a fire pit are the materials used and the quality of work.

Well-designed fire pits that are installed by professionals will be built more solidly. They are less likely to crumble or deteriorate quickly than ammeter work.

Cheap ready-made fire pits are often made with lots of metal. Over time, when exposed to natural elements, these metal fire pits will rust. In fact, some metal fire pits may last only one full season.

Professionally installed cement and stone fire pits can easily last more than 20 and upwards of 100 years if diligently maintained.

Wood burning fire pits are the ultimate throwback to camp fires. They are essentially a more controlled version of that wilderness vibe. These fire pits do not require any type of feel or electrical setup, simply ample chopped wood and an operator who knows how to safely maintain a wood fire.

Wood fire pits can be potentially hazardous as the flames are not easily controlled. They also require dry chopped wood, which may be either plentiful or scarce, depending on where you live. These wood fire pits also require the most upkeep and cleaning.

Wood fireplaces can be very romantic, and bring back nostalgia for older simpler times. They will require ample storage space for dried wood, but like fire pits, will not need to rely on external power, which may be a good solution for those without access to natural gas.

Wood fireplaces are easier to contain than fire pits as the structures do a better job blocking wind and containing flames. The biggest downside to wood burning fireplaces is they make quite a mess. They need to be cleaned after each use, which can be tedious.

Outdoor fireplaces are often more elaborate, professionally designed permanent structures. For these reasons, they are often even more aesthetically pleasing to homebuyers, and significantly increase your property value.

Outdoor fireplaces may cost significantly more than fire pits, but you can easily see an 80 percent return on your investment. Outdoor gas fireplaces often see the highest return on investment. Do not let the initial sticker price of an outdoor fireplace scare you. You may get most of the money back if you sell your house.