Fire pit: tips for choosing and enjoying evenings by the fire
There is nothing like a crackling fire to extend evenings outdoors, in summer as in winter. The fire pit has become the centerpiece of many gardens and terraces: it warms, it brings people together and, well-equipped, it even allows for cooking. Here are our tips for choosing the right one, using it correctly, and enjoying it safely.
Which material to choose?
Corten steel
Highly prized for its natural rust appearance, Corten steel develops a patina on the surface that protects it from deep corrosion. It integrates perfectly into a garden and evolves beautifully over time. During the first few months, this patina can run and stain light-colored floors: plan for a protective plate or install it on gravel, soil, or dark paving stones.
Black steel
Painted or high-temperature treated steel offers a sober and modern look. It does not stain the ground like Corten, but requires a bit more attention: a cover and regular maintenance will extend its lifespan.
Stainless steel
Durable and easy to maintain, stainless steel is used particularly for double-walled fire pits, such as those from Solo Stove. This principle promotes secondary combustion of gases, designed to limit smoke and provide a cleaner flame.
Cast iron and portable models
For camping or more rustic outdoor settings, there are also fire pits suspended on tripods, fire barrels, or compact models, such as those from Petromax or Feuerhand.
What size fire pit?
The diameter is chosen according to the number of people and the available space:
- Less than 60 cm: for a small garden, a terrace, or portable use, 2 to 4 people.
- From 60 to 80 cm: a good compromise for the family.
- 80 cm and more: for entertaining and cooking for many guests around the same fire.
Think about the height: a low fire pit creates a campfire atmosphere, while a pedestal model or a fire pit table makes cooking more comfortable.
The accessories that make all the difference
- The grill or cooking plate: transforms the fire pit into a barbecue or plancha. On models with a wide rim, the latter even serves as a cooking surface.
- The floor protection plate: essential on wooden terraces, light stone, or tile.
- The lid and cover: they protect from rain and leaves, and the lid allows you to smother the fire.
- The spark screen: useful in windy weather or near vegetation.
- The log storage base: practical and decorative, it keeps wood within reach.
- The tools: poker, tongs, heat-resistant gloves.
Which fuel to use?
- Prioritize well-dried hardwood (less than 20% humidity): less smoke, more heat, and beautiful embers for cooking. See our guide Which firewood to choose?
- Choose logs of a length adapted to the diameter of the firebox.
- To cook, you can also use charcoal on a bed of embers.
- Light with kindling and natural firelighters. Never use gasoline, methylated spirits, or flammable liquid.
- Never burn treated, painted, or varnished wood, pallets, plastics, or waste: toxic fumes guaranteed.
Essential safety rules
Never indoors
A fire pit must never be used indoors, nor in a closed or semi-closed space: house, garage, veranda, shelter, tent, under a closed canopy. The combustion of wood and charcoal produces carbon monoxide, an odorless and invisible gas that is potentially fatal. Also, never bring a still-hot fire pit or one filled with embers inside to warm yourself.
Choose the location carefully
- Install it on a stable, level, and non-combustible surface.
- Keep a comfortable distance from the house, hedges, trees, furniture, and parasols.
- Avoid days with strong wind.
During and after use
- Never leave the fire unattended and keep children and animals at a distance.
- Keep a bucket of water, sand, or a fire extinguisher within reach.
- Let the fire go out completely. Ashes can stay hot for a long time: wait until they are completely cold before emptying them into a metal container.
Local regulations
Rules concerning outdoor fires vary according to municipalities and periods (fire risk, drought, air pollution). Furthermore, the burning of green waste is generally prohibited. Check with your town hall or prefecture, and think of your neighbors by limiting smoke.
Enjoying your fire pit all year round
In winter, the fire pit becomes the heart of aperitifs and evenings with friends: a few throws, storm lanterns for atmosphere, a hot drink, and the garden comes back to life. In summer, it turns into a friendly cooking area: grilled meats, vegetables, eggs, plancha cooking on the rim… Maintain it with a cover and store it in a dry place off-season if it is not made of Corten.
Our fire pits and accessories
Discover our Corten steel, black steel, and stainless steel fire pits, as well as patio heaters, in the Winter Special – Heating & fire pit collection. Complete with our fire & barbecue accessories, our firelighters and charcoal, and our mood lamps.