The Difference Between In-Ground Fire Pits and Above-Ground Fire Pits (2024)

FAQs

The Difference Between In-Ground Fire Pits and Above-Ground Fire Pits? ›

Installing an in-ground fire pit is more complex and expensive, but provides superior durability, safety, and size capacity. Above-ground fire pits are quicker, cheaper, and easier to install. They can be readily moved but require more frequent maintenance.

A primary difference between an above-ground fire pit and an in-ground fire pit is the location of the flames. In-ground fire pits are, as the name implies, below the surface. Sunken fire pits have fewer risks because out-of-control fires are less likely to spread.

In-ground fire pits are a permanent feature that can add a touch of rustic charm to any outdoor space. Let's look at how depth and diameter play a crucial role in designing these fire pits. Depth: A good depth for an in-ground fire pit is between 6 to 12 inches.

A fire pit dug in gravel may have roots growing that can remain lit even after the fire is put out, and create a new fire later on. An extremely basic way to build a fire pit is to simply dig a hole in the ground and create one yourself! All you need to do to begin is dig a hole approximately 20 centimetres deep.

A sunken fire pit can be a great addition to your outdoor space. Not only does it enable you to enjoy the warmth and crackling of the fire from a safe distance, but it also acts as a specific spot for the rest of your yard.

What Do You Put in the Bottom of a Fire Pit? To create a safe, sturdy foundation for a fire pit, we use a gravel paver base. Other common materials used for the bottom of a fire pit are sand, lava stones, dirt, fire glass and concrete slabs.

We recommend crushed limestone around fire pits because of its excellent drainage. Plus, it compacts well, giving a solid base for seating and other heavy items. As mentioned above, you should choose a different type of stone for inside the fire pit itself to avoid the potential of rock explosions.

Tamp the ground to form a solid surface for the paver base and concrete blocks. Consider adding a drain during this step to keep the pit from filling with rainwater. Run the drain pipe to a low part of your yard, a drainage ditch, or tie it into an existing drain (this option is best left to a professional).

A fire pit placed in the ground is an easy and cheap option. All of the work is done by you, and you get to decide how big it can be, in accordance with local laws, of course. All you have to do is dig the hole and design how the logs are placed in the pit.

In order to create the safest, most functional ventilation system for your fire pit, install cross ventilation. To do this, place two vents on opposite sides of the fire pit to allow various exit points for heat and gas. Without multiple vents, gas can still get trapped on one side due to poor airflow.

How high should a fire pit be above ground? ›

A good rule of thumb is to make an above-ground fire pit 12-14 inches tall. This is a few inches shorter than standard patio furniture seat height. If you want to be able to sit on the edge of the pit itself go a bit higher, 18-20 inches will be comfortable.

Are holes in the base of a fire pit necessary? No. It may seem surprising, but your fire pit will work just as effectively with or without base holes. Base holes do allow a little more airflow and so offer a faster burn, but that also means you will burn through wood faster.

Assuming the fire pit is constructed safely, the only real differences between above-ground and in-ground pits is the installation labor involved and location versatility. Whether you buy a pre-made fire pit or build one yourself, an in-ground installation will involve digging up some of your backyard.

An inch of sand at the bottom of a metal fire pit can help to protect the bowl from the intense heat of the fire. Whether your fire pit is portable or permanent, having sand at the bottom is a handy precaution. If you ever need to smother the fire in a hurry, you can grab a nearby shovel to use the sand.

Fire pits are generally either shallow or deep. Although some people may prefer the look of a shallow bowl, Jackson says a deeper bowl is safer, will hold the fire better, and will protect your fire from the wind.

Material. Most fire pits are made with steel—and generally, steel is the best pick. It's incredibly heat-resistant, weather-resistant, strong, and durable.

Ground fires burn the ground fuels. These fires usually don't have much flame, they smolder. Surface fires burn the surface fuels. And, crown fires burn the aerial fuels.

A Dakota Fire Hole is an underground fire that is ideal for heat, stealth camping, and high winds. Because the fire is underground, the flame doesn't have contact with the cold air so the ground acts as insulation for the fire making it hotter than a normal one.