Five Important Considerations When Buying a Fire Pit Ring

A fire pit ring is a must-have for any backyard that wants to add warmth and ambiance to their outdoor space. Fire pits provide a great place to gather with friends and family on cool evenings, roast marshmallows, or simply enjoy the crackling sound of a fire.

When choosing a fire pit ring, there are a number of factors to consider. Here are five of the most important:

1. Size and Dimensions

The size of your fire pit ring will depend on the size of your backyard or patio and how many people you want to accommodate. If you have a small space, you'll want to choose a smaller fire pit ring. If you have a large space, you can choose a larger fire pit ring or even consider paving an area for a fire pit insert. Many local governments also have ordinances about how large the inner diameter of a fire pit can be, so always check local laws prior to building a large fire pit area.

The size of the fire pit ring includes a variety of dimensions to consider, such as the inclusion of an outer lip or the inner and outer diameter of the fire ring. Ensure you have enough area to build a sizeable fire by choosing a fire ring that is 30" in diameter. If you are placing a fire pit ring directly on the ground, choose a fire pit ring with a lower lip to prevent the fire pit ring from sinking. For optimal airflow, add a fire pit grate that is at least 2" smaller in diameter than your fire pit ring to allow for heat expansion.

2. Material and Thickness

The material plays a significant role in the durability, aesthetics, and maintenance requirements of your fire pit ring. Common materials include steel, copper, and cast iron, each with its unique characteristics:

Cast/Thick Steel: Durable and affordable, thick steel fire pit rings are a low maintenance option that provide a good heat barrier, holding and radiating heat. A thick powder-coated fire ring will not warp or rust-through, and the right ring can last a lifetime.
Thin, Galvanized Steel: While a cheaper option in the short term, a galvanized steel is more prone to rust after high-temperature exposure.
Copper: Aesthetically pleasing and heat-resistant, copper develops a unique patina over time but can be more expensive. However, copper fire pits are often thin and offer low-heat retention, so they won't stand the test of time.
Stainless Steel: While stainless-steel fire pit rings are rust-free, they are usually a thin steel and discolor with heat exposure over time.

Thickness is equally important, as a thicker fire pit ring will withstand the heat and elements better, ensuring long-lasting performance.

3. Style

The style of your fire pit ring should complement the overall style of your backyard or patio. Some fire pit rings feature more mesh or cut-outs for the fire to shine through. While fun, these features may cause early deterioration or lessened durability. Many fire rings have large welds or bolts holding them together. The best fire pit rings are made from a single slab of thick steel, with no points of weakness.

4. Accessories

Enhance the functionality and versatility of your fire pit ring with optional accessories that cater to your needs:

BBQ Grate

Transform your fire pit into a grill for outdoor cooking, perfect for casual meals or gatherings. With a heavy-duty fire pit grilling grate that fits snugly on top of your fire pit ring and holds over 100 lbs, you won't need to worry about any hanging contraptions or levers. Just place the BBQ Grate over your fire ring, and cook food directly over the fire or with heavy cast-iron cookware.

Snuffer Lid

Add safety and elegance to your fire pit ring with a fitted lid. Not only does a lid protect the interior of your fire ring from debris and weather, but a snuffer lid will extinguish your fire for the ultimate safety.

5. Price and Value

Fire pit rings vary in price depending on the material, size, features, and brand. Set a budget and prioritize the features that matter most to you to find the best value for your investment.

Consider Long-Term Value: Invest in a high-quality fire pit ring made from durable materials to ensure longevity.
Compare Prices: Shop around and compare prices from different retailers to find the most competitive deals.
Value Your Preferences: Prioritize the features that are most important to you, whether it's style, functionality, or durability.

Here are some additional tips for choosing a fire pit ring:

Read reviews: Before you buy a fire pit ring, read reviews from other customers. This can help you get a sense of the quality of the fire pit ring and whether or not it is worth the price.
Consider the location: Where will you be using your fire pit ring? If you will be using it on a deck or patio, you will need to make sure that the fire pit ring is not too close to any flammable materials.

With a little planning, you can find the perfect fire pit ring to add warmth and ambiance to your backyard for years to come.