How do you use a fire pit for the first time?

Should you pour water on fire pit?

The sand and dirt method is actually preferable if you have a metal fire pit that you plan to use season after season. Water that's left sitting in a metal pit will cause it to rust, so it's best to avoid using water with this type of fire pit.

What do you use to start a fire in a fire pit?

To start a fire, you really only need four things: a lighter, tinder, kindling, and dry firewood. You can purchase specialty fire starting wood to make the process easier, as well, but it's by no means a requirement.

Do you have to put anything in the bottom of a fire pit?

While some people choose to forgo a fire pit filler and simply use a concrete or stone base, filler adds a nice aesthetic to your fire pit that can enhance your backyard landscaping. Place a thin layer of sand on the bottom of the fire pit and add the recommended 2-6 inches of filler on top of it.

Why do you put sand in the bottom of a fire pit?

The main benefits of using sand are that it helps to soak up the heat and evenly distribute the heat throughout the fire pit. Sand is also great for protecting the actual metal bowl from the intense heat the fire can put out. At the end of the day, there is no harm in putting sand in the base of a metal pit.

How to start your first fire: new fire pit purchase

Can I put a fire pit on grass?

Fire pits can be placed directly on top of grass. However, without proper precaution, there can be major damage to the grass. It is recommended to place a mat or other material underneath to avoid damage.

How do you keep a fire pit fire going?

How do you arrange firewood in a fire pit?

Building one is easy: Put two logs in your pit parallel to each other, then stack two more on top perpendicular to them. Continue to stack logs to the desired height, then place kindling in the center square and ignite.

Do you put the lid on a fire pit while burning?

A fire pit cover is a must-have accessory. It keeps rain, wind-blown debris like leaves, and even unsuspecting critters from filling your fire pit. With in-ground fire pits, adding a cover also protects guests from taking a tumble into the pit.

Is it OK to leave fire pit burning overnight?

There are several reasons why a fire pit should never be left unattended at any time, including overnight. In every jurisdiction within the United States, it is illegal to leave a recreational fire unattended. Even a small gust of wind can easily spread hot ashes or embers a significant distance.

How do you use a fire pit safely?

How do you start a fire pit with charcoal?

Spread your charcoals equally throughout the pit and then choose your method of lighting them. You can either add a few fire starters, tucking 2 or 3 under the coals, or squirt an appropriate amount of liquid and light with a long match. Be sure to use a recommended lighter fuel and to use it in a cautious manner.

What wood should you not burn in a fire pit?

Trees like pines, firs, or cypress have "soft" wood, which burns fast, leaves few coals, and makes a lot of smoke that can coat your chimney with soot (not a safe thing in the long run).

How do you put out a fire pit without water?

A common way of putting out a fire pit without water is to use dry sand or dirt. We recommend using a shovel to throw sand and dirt on the coals of the fire once it has nearly burned out to a few embers.

Can I use cardboard as kindling?

Use cardboard as kindling to start an outdoor fire. Cut or rip the cardboard into small strips and place it loosely in the fire pit, crisscrossing your strips. You can add newspaper as well if you wish. Place split logs crisscrossed in the fire venue and light the cardboard.

What can I use if I don't have kindling?

Sticks, twigs, and dried leaves

Loose bits of wood make good tinder – no surprises there. Gathering together a pile of small sticks, twigs, and dried leaves will give you a good base to build a fire. To make sure your kindling takes, ensure the sticks, twigs, and leaves you gather are smaller and easier to light.

How far does fire pit have to be from house?

Place your fire pit at a safe distance (10-25 feet) from any flammable structures or surfaces. This includes your house, trees, shed, vehicle, neighbors' property, and wood deck, among other things. Keep your fire pit away from overhanging branches. A 21-foot clearance is standard for most municipalities.

Can I put fire pit on deck?

Never, never, NEVER place a fire put directly on a wooden or composite deck. Potential expensive issues due to the use of a fire pit on a wood deck range from full-on fire damage and the destruction or weakening of the decking and the supporting structure, to cosmetic damage from scorching.

Where should you put a fire pit in your backyard?

Fire pits should be placed on a level surface, no less than ten feet away from any structure, 20-25 feet or more is best, in a wide-open space, away from trees with low hanging limbs, woodpiles, bushes, and other materials that could ignite if contact with a flame is made.

What kind of sand should I use in my fire pit?

Fire-proof silica sand is an excellent base layer for a fire pit. Silica sand can be used as cost-effective filler to cover the bottom areas of a fire pit. Fire glass or lava rock can be added on top of the sand for effect.

Can I use lava rocks in a wood burning fire pit?

Fire Pit Safety

If burning wood, place a layer of lava rock at least 4-5 inches deep. Then place your firewood on the lava rock. For gas fires, fill the fire pit with enough lava rock to at least cover the fire ring. Do not use rock or gravel of any kind in place of lava rock; it can potentially explode when heated.

How do you put a Duraflame log in a fire pit?

Putting Out Duraflame Logs

As you would with any fire, simply douse them carefully with water. Another option is to use sand, making sure the flames are completely covered. Finally, you can use a dry chemical fire extinguisher to put out a Duraflame log.

How do you clean a fire pit?

Use hot, soapy water and a soft cloth to scrub the interior of the fire pit. Rinse the soap and water thoroughly. Use a dry cloth to wipe the fire pit dry. Sitting water can cause a metal fire pit to rust, so make sure not to leave water sitting after cleaning.