Cool fall nights pair perfectly with a warm fire — especially when you have guests over. Nothing is cozier than crowding around a fire with friends, family, or a good book and a cup of coffee (decaf, of course). 

Have you ever thought about installing a fireplace or fire pit in your backyard? Let’s take a look at which option is best for you.

Fire Pit 

When you think of a fire pit, you probably think about crowding around a fire, roasting marshmallows, and avoiding the smoke trail. That’s essentially what a fire pit is: it’s an informal fire used primarily for entertaining larger groups of people. They’re generally less expensive, and they can seat more people around the fire than a fireplace can.

If you’re thinking about installing a fire pit, keep in mind that they require more maintenance, and the fire isn’t as contained as a fireplace. But… S’mores. It’s hard to beat sitting around a fire roasting marshmallows with friends and family.

Wood Burning Fire Pit

A wood fire pit can be a great way to use your outdoor space — especially if you live in a wooded area. While lighting a wood fire may take a bit more time to start than a gas fire, this can also be enjoyable for those looking to get the most out of their outdoor space and feel closer to nature while being close to home.

Wood-burning fire pits are less expensive than those that burn gas because you don’t have to run a fuel line or install a propane tank. However, that time can be offset by the time needed to obtain, store, and use wood. 

Gas Burning Fire Pit

If you are interested in installing a gas fire pit, it’s important to know if you can connect to the natural gas line of your home. If not, do you have an appropriate storage option to house a large propane tank? Unlike a wood fire pit, a gas-burning fire pit requires little to no cleanup. There also isn’t any smoke with a gas-burning fire pit which can be a huge bonus if you have allergies or respiratory concerns. With gas, professional installation is the best option to ensure your safety from leaks.

Outdoor Fireplace

Unlike a fire pit, a fireplace is designed to sit in front of or beside it. In other words, it’s not the primary focus of your space; although, it adds a warm ambiance to your patio. A fireplace is more intimate and used for fewer people. It’s the perfect place to cozy up with a book or unwind with your spouse at the end of a long day. 

There are more options for fireplace design, and they can make an elegant architectural statement. The smoke must be directed up and out of a chimney, and it can be used in inclement weather when incorporated into a covered patio design. 

Ready to Install?

Before you decide between an outdoor fireplace or a fire pit, ask yourself how you plan to use it. How you answer will help determine which is best for your space. Contact the team at Olive Branch Landscape Management for a custom landscape design. 

Andrew Booth and Jeremy King became co-owners of Olive Branch Landscape Management in 2019. With their variety of skills, Olive Branch Landscape Management is dedicated to serving the community in Central Arkansas. Contact us today!