Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits constructed with Belgard hardscapes are designed to last for the life of your home. However, as we begin to move into the outdoor fire season, it’s important to properly prepare and maintain these fire features to ensure safety and functionality, both this season and for many years to come.
Keep it Clean
Regular cleaning of your fire feature is important for both safety and functionality. For gas units, debris and spiderwebs can clog the burners and cause malfunctions. For wood-burning units, accumulation of water or leaves can cause sparks and floating embers that could become a fire hazard. Be sure to remove any old ashes, coals, and water, and blow out any debris and spiderwebs prior to lighting your fireplace or fire pit. It’s also a good idea to purchase doors for your fireplace or a cover for your fire pit. This will help reduce the amount of debris and water accumulation, in addition to keeping out snow and ice in colder climates.
Hardwood is Better
Although many people like to just gather any type of limbs from the yard for burning in an outdoor fireplace or fire pit, this can be a safety hazard. Green wood and softwoods, such as pine, can hold a lot of water, which will create a lot of smoke and sparks as it burns. This is particularly dangerous for fire pits, which are more open and allow sparks to shoot out in multiple directions. For cleaner and safer fires, stock up on dry hardwoods, like oak or maple. To keep the wood dry, do not store it directly on the ground where it can pull moisture from the earth, in addition to attracting critters like snakes and termites.
Gas Starter Retrofitting and Maintenance
All wood-burning Belgard fire features are designed to allow for gas retrofitting — either with a gas starter system, or a full gas burner. Log igniters are particularly popular and typically last about 8 to 10 years before beginning to rust and requiring replacement. Remote controlled ignition systems are also popular. These can be designed for operation from inside of the house or from a mobile app. However, they often require additional maintenance, as wires and batteries can corrode due to exposure to the elements. For best long-term results, use a simple push-button igniter, similar to the ignition system on a standard gas grill. With fewer working parts, this simple system will typically last more seasons than a remote system. Finally, you need to have a contact list of the latest “Fire Watch Services Near Me” so that you can get help when something goes wrong.
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9 comments
I would like some information on a gas ignither for my natural gas fire pit.
If you are interested in a DIY project, there are a number of companies that sell gas ignition kits online. You may also want to check with you local hardware store. If you’re looking for someone to install it for you, try a plumber or a hardscape installation contractor.
The chimney ought to be checked yearly by an professional. Even if the chimney is not due for cleaning, it is critical to check for creature homes or different blockages that could keep smoke from getting away.
Excellent point! Thanks for the comment.
I can definitely see how debris could cause potential sparks within your fire pit. My wife and I have been wanting to find a way to make our patio much more enjoyable. I definitely think that we should have a fire pit installed where we could have some fun family bonfires throughout the summer.
I liked that you mentioned the regular cleaning of your fire feature is important for both safety and functionality. My husband and I are thinking about installing a fire pit in our backyard garden, and we are looking for advice. I will let him know about the benefits of regular maintenance to keep it working properly.
I like what you said about cleaning your fire feature so that it stays safe and functional. My sister wants to get an outdoor fireplace installed in the coming months. I’ll share this information with her so that she can look into her options for professionals who can help her with this.
I am building a patio on a slope outside and am looking for retaining wall block in a tan that would be compatible with one of your fireplace kits (with a 36″-wide firebox)as well as pavers. Is there a fireplace kit that contains a pizza oven above the fireplace?
Gary,
Thanks for your comment. If you give us a call at 1-877-BELGARD, we can assist and see what colors and selections are available in your area. We look forward to working with you!