The Pool Doctors of Rhode Island know that just because the sun has gone down doesn’t mean you have to call it a day around the poolside. Swimming pool owners in Coventry, RI know that adding a fire pit to the poolside can add hours of fun and enjoyment even after the sun goes down. A fire pit has become a new must-have for outdoor living enjoyment. They offer warmth on chilly nights and can also be used to roast marshmallows and even meals.
Swimming pool contractors in Coventry, Rhode Island offer these tips for individuals looking to enhance the ambiance of the swimming pool, spa or hot tub area in their backyards with a fire pit.
- Choose your style. Fire pits come in myriad shapes and sizes. Make certain you know what you want to accomplish with the installation of your fire pit. If you’ll be entertaining large numbers of people around the pool and fire, you might want a fire pit that houses a bigger fire. A large-pit style is also a good choice if you plan to cook out over an open fire. You can choose from open pit designs to those with walled in sides and chimneys. The type with chimneys also allows for a more smoke-free seating area.
- What’s it going to be made of. There are a wide range of materials to choose from when it comes to your fire pit. The most common materials include cast iron, copper and stainless steel. There are also styles for built-in fire pits that are made of concrete or stone. All of these materials are durable enough to house fires and coordinate with the rest of your patio decor.
- What kind of fuel. As with the myriad styles and options, choosing the type of fuel you’ll burn comes with choices. For many people, it’s a personal preference. Fire wood is the optimal choice if you want your fire to look, smell and act like a traditional campfire. If you go for a wood fired stove, opt to burn hardwoods like oak as it provides less smoke. Pine ignites easily and is smokier. Avoid treated woods as they can emit dangerous chemicals into the air. If cooking over your fire pit is what you plan to do, you might opt for a charcoal burning fire pit.
- Keep it safe. As with anything in and around your swimming pool, safety should be top of mind when choosing your fire pit. When you’re working with your swimming pool contractor make certain you select a fire pit that comes with a mesh cover to keep the flames and embers from flying out. Never have the fire pit too close to electrical appliances – if you have an outdoor kitchen area – and keep it away from dry grasses or trees. Many people find it best to center their fire pit on a concrete or decorative tile base. If the fire pit is on a stone base, flying embers can be put out before they cause a fire. Always keep a bucket or two of water handy around the fire pit to extinguish any errant flame or bits of wood that may escape.
A fire pit is a great addition to your Coventry, Rhode Island swimming pool area and outdoor living space because it adds warmth and ambiance and enhances the number of hours you can spend poolside. A well-chosen fire pit will add many additional hours of fun for your family for many summer seasons.