How to Choose the Perfect Fire Pit Size
Warm up your outdoor space!
A fire pit is a versatile feature designed to bring warmth, ambience, and a place for socializing to your outdoor space. With a 360° view of the flames, it can serve as a captivating focal point for your lazy summer nights or social gatherings, but it’s important to choose the right size to maximize your comfort. Keep reading for easy steps to help you choose the right size fire pit.
1. Understand the Dimensions
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Selecting the right fire pit size for your home requires an understanding of its dimensions. A well-proportioned fire pit enhances safety, functionality, and enjoyment – making it a welcoming centerpiece for gatherings.
Interior Width: The interior of a fire pit is where the fire burns. This area typically ranges from 36" – 44" wide in small fire pits, though it can be up to 5 feet to accommodate large fires.
Total Width: When you factor in the depth of the walls, you get the total width of a fire pit. If the surrounding wall is intended for seating, it should be between 12" – 18" and positioned 24" – 36" inches away from the flames for safety.
Height: For optimal warmth and accessibility, an above-ground fire pit should ideally be between 12" – 14" tall – slightly lower than standard patio seating. If you plan to sit on the edge, a height of 18" – 20" works best, while those looking to prop their feet up should opt for a fire pit between 6" – 12" tall.
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Your choice of fire pit determines the available sizes, which in turn shapes its functionality. Here are some design styles to choose from:
Portable: Portable fire pits are self-contained vessels that sit close to the ground and are easy to move around. While portable fire pits are generally the smallest, they do come in a variety of shapes and sizes that make them the most popular type of fire pit.
Fire Column: If you are aiming for more height, consider a fire column that has an elongated shape. While they are still portable, fire columns are usually viewed as a semi-permanent feature.
Fire Pit Tables: For a more modern fixture, a fire pit table is a great option. These specially designed tables house a fire feature in the center and provide the perfect centerpiece for cozy conversation. Check out Everything You Need to Know About Fire Pit Tables to learn more.
In-Ground: An in-ground fire pit is a permanent feature which has the look of a bonfire. They are recessed into the ground with a barrier built around them to protect you from the flames. A fire ring is recommended for in-ground fire pits as a way to safely contain the fire.
Above-Ground: Much like an in-ground fire pit, an above-ground design is also permanent but rather than being recessed into the ground, the entire pit is built on top of the ground. They are also recessed by walls in order to keep the fire contained and protect guests from the flames.
Tip!
For more information on the types of fire pits and their features, check out our guide Types of Fire Pits: How to Choose the Right One For You.
3. Consider Size Options
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When it comes to fire pit sizes, you need to find the right balance for your outdoor space. A fire pit that is too small may not put off enough heat, while one that’s too big could pose safety issues. Depending on the space available and type of gatherings you plan to host, a small fire pit could be more intimate, while a large fire pit could fit a larger group. Here are some common fire pit size categories:
Small: If you are looking to add a fire pit to fit to your deck or in a small backyard, a small fire pit size should suffice. They usually measure around 30" wide and their compact size also makes for convenient portability, allowing you to move the fire pit as needed.
Medium: Medium fire pits are typically about 3' wide and offer more heat and space for guests around their perimeter while still maintaining an intimate setting. Many fire pit tables are medium-sized, with dimensions similar to those of a coffee table.
Large: Large fire pits are about 5' across and are well suited for backyards or patios with a large amount of space. A large fire pit is ideal for entertaining groups and creating a focal point in your outdoor space.
Extra Large: To make a grand statement, an extra-large fire pit will do the trick. Many extra-large fire pits come in the form of fire pit tables which are comparable to dining tables and can seat a number of guests.
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The size of your fire pit also depends on your available outdoor space. Depending on where you decide to put it, here are some important measurements to keep in mind:
Patio: Your patio should be at least 6' larger than the fire pit on all sides to allow for easy maneuvering around the flames. This also gives you plenty of space for other patio furniture kept at a safe distance from the fire.
Backyard: Backyards provide plenty of open space for fire pits, but be sure to place your fire at least 15' – 20' from residences and 10' from property lines for safety reasons. In general, it’s safe to position seating 2' – 3' feet from the fire pit, but allow for more space on windy days.
Overhead: You should also consider any possible obstructions overhead. It’s best to leave at least 10' of vertical clearance to avoid any stray embers catching on any tree branches or the edge of a low-hanging roof. Some fire pits, such as propane- or gas-powered ones, can be safely used beneath fire-resistant gazebos, while wood-burning fire pits can pose more of a safety risk when paired with outdoor shade structures.
