Fire Pits Are the Key to a Fantastic Backyard Pool Space
Winter time is here. In the recent years, backyard living has become more popular than ever with many homeowners adding outdoor kitchens with dining areas, terraces, outdoor TV and speakers throughout their backyard oasis. With all these great outdoor living features, the fire pit is number one, especially when it comes to swimming pool accessories. Many pool owners want to extend the hours they can use their pools and the surrounding environment. Fire pits are the perfect solution! Fire pits provide the perfect area to gather with friends for crisp, moonlit nights and toasted marshmallows. It is essential to select the right fire pit based on available space, budget and, most important, local ordinances. Are you ready to choose the best fire pit to go with your new swimming pool? Let’s start planning!
Plan a Budget
A lot of different factors go into the cost of adding a fire pit. You must look at the overall size, materials used, gas or wood, DIY or professionally built, custom or manufactured, as well as if you want to include any built-in seating areas. There are some customers who are on a tight budget and choose to go for a small fire that they dig and build themselves. No matter what your budget may be, our designers will work with you to design the perfect fire pit to go along with your family’s new pool. At Dogwood, we not only provide the design but also ensure a well-built fire pit deserving for your outdoor family room that is built to stand the test of time.
Permanent or Portable Fire Pits?
As you plan on what you want for your backyard, you may want to think about permanence. Always ask yourself if you want a built-in fire pit as a focal point in the yard. An integrated design represents a custom-made fire pit based on your specifications. You can enjoy that step to step process that starts with the “design in mind” to the finishing product.
Gas or Wood Fire Pits?
Now here is a question you should ask: wood or gas? Those who favor the natural outdoor smell, often prefer burning real logs. If that’s the case, make sure you have a screen and a steady supply of wood. Others prefer the convenience of gas or propane for an instant fire with a remote switch. It may not be as hot as a natural wood fire, and it won’t crackle and smoke. Then again, there are dual-fuel fire pits that let you do both. Remember to keep in mind that budget is the key. In most cases, we highly recommend the convenience of gas fire pits.
Location
Where you want to have your fire pit may be determined by communities, permits, or both. Some cities require a minimum 10-foot distance from your house and neighbors’ yards. Others don’t need a permit if the fire pit fits within set size requirements. Our experts and designers can guide you through the process of selecting the right location.
Safety First
Also, remember that safety comes first. A fire of any kind, no matter the size, requires serious attention to safety. The National Fire Protection Association offers the following fire pit safety advice:
- Check wind direction before you light a fire.
- Don’t use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.) to light or relight fires.
- Don’t wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fitting clothing near fires.
- Avoid using soft woods like pine or cedar, because they can “pop” and throw sparks.
- Make sure to keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the fire.
It’s also important to know how to safely dispose of the ashes after the fire is out. If you happen to live in an area prone to wildfires, you should close your fire pit as a requirement of your homeowner’s insurance. Check with an insurance agent to understand any potential impact a fire pit may have on your coverage.
Now it’s your chance to get a great oasis and prepare for the summer. Let Dogwood help you build your family’s dream pool and backyard oasis. Our team of pool experts strives to help make the pool building process an easy and enjoyable one. Contact us HERE or by calling 678-368-7000 to take the first step towards making your custom pool and backyard oasis dreams come true. And remember, Your Backyard Has Dreams Too!
