Do you have a fire pit in your backyard? If not, you and your family might be missing out on some great times! There’s nothing better than chilling by the fire on a nice night and spending quality time with the fam. If installing a fire pit on your patio is a project you are considering, there are some important considerations when planning the design.

 Do you want a simple or elaborate firepit? If you want to keep it simple, you can purchase a prebuilt fire pit from your local hardware store and place it in a safe spot on your patio (at least 10 feet from your home). Just add some comfy patio chairs around the pit and your fire area is complete! If you want a more elaborate design with a built-in pit, you need to consider if/where there is room to build one and how you will landscape around it. Make sure you match the new space to your current patio design and décor, so the spaces flow together seamlessly.

The next thing to consider is whether you want a wood burning or gas fire pit (or both)! A wood burning pit is easier, cheaper, and faster to install. The wood burns hotter and is cheaper than gas. With a gas pit, the ease of use and low maintenance is quite compelling—no mess of wood and splinters, and no smoke polluting the air around your home! You also won’t have to worry about where to buy and store firewood. There are hybrid pits that burn wood and gas, which is a viable option to consider if you can’t decide on one or the other. If you’re considering the wood burning option, be sure to check your local building/fire code regulations regarding wood fires to be sure you can burn wood in your area.

Installing a fire pit can be completed in a day or two, which means you can have it operational before summer is over! As soon as your pit is ready to light, gather your friends and family and enjoy the first lighting together. Open your Bi-Fold, Multi-Slide, Lift and Slide, or French Swing Patio Doors so guests can effortlessly migrate in and out—they will enjoy the indoor-outdoor lifestyle created by your luxurious patio doors. Fire up the barbecue and feast on some good food while hanging around the fire with good company. Of course, don’t forget the s’mores supplies! Be safe and review these fire safety tips before lighting up.