
Can you use a fire pit on a wooden deck?
It is safe to put a fire pit on a wood deck, but you’ll want to do a few thing to make sure it’s safe. It isn’t just a matter of putting fire on top of a wooden structure—even if there isn’t direct contact between the fire pit and the deck, the heat and sparks that fly can still cause a dangerous fire.
What is the best firewood for fire pits?
Types of Firewood for Fire Pits
- Almond. If you live in an area with almond groves, then this may be the best choice. ...
- Ash. This is one of the most common choices for fire pits because you can burn the wood while it is still green.
- Avocado. ...
- Bigleaf Maple. ...
- Black Oak. ...
- Cedar. ...
- Coast Live Oak. ...
- Hickory. ...
- Pacific Madrone. ...
- Valley Oak. ...
Are propane fire pits safe on decking?
Most pre-made propane fire pits and fire tables are safe to use on a composite or wood deck. Unlike wood fires, there are no sparks thrown from a gas fire pit, so the risk of unintentional ignition is much lower.
How to protect my composite deck under a fire pit?
- Position your fire pit in a relatively low-traffic area to reduce unintended contact with the fire pit or its hot contents
- Be aware of and position your fire pit away from overhead structures (i.e. ...
- Select a spot that can accommodate seating positioned 3-5 feet away from the fire pit in all directions

Are Propane Fire Pits Safe on Decks?
ThisCookoutLife.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an affiliate, this website earns from qualifying purchases.
Are propane fire pits safe for decks?
Before you ever get started, you should first keep from installing this too close to the home.
Considerations When Placing a Fire Pit on a Deck
Fire can be dangerous, so it is extremely important that you take multiple precautions if you are hoping to use your fire pit on a deck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Each deck is unique, and there are many different types of fire pits out there. This can lead to some more specific questions that need answered. The questions that will be addressed here are:
Final Thoughts
Fire pits can easily change the entire aesthetic of your outdoor space, including your deck or patio. Sitting around a warm fire listening to the sounds of nature is one of the perks of summertime that many people would love to have in their outdoor space.
Are Propane Fire Pits Safe on Decks?
Certified propane fire pits are the safest and best fire pits compared to any other fire pit for the deck. Propane fire pits produce comparably low heat than wood-burning pits. Thus they are safe to use on all kinds of decks. Besides, you can control the gas and quickly turn it off.
How hot does a fire pit get?
A wood-burning fire pit may reach temperatures of up to 1,200°F (1,100 °C). That’s the temperature for a bonfire, and it’s hot, so take care on your balcony! A propane gas-powered gadget has about 70K BTUs, which is more intense than most other options in this category.
Which Decks Are Safe For Using Propane Fire Pits?
So, let us see whether you can set a propane fire pit on decks like wooden decks, vinyl decks, and concrete decks. But what about composite decks? Can you use a propane fire deck on wood and composite decks? We shall also see that.
What Is Composite Decking?
Composite decking gained popularity because of its low price compared to wooden decks. It is a kind of decking made from a mix of materials like wood fibers, PVCs, other types of plastics, and some bonding agents.
What Are The Safety Considerations With Propane Fire Pits On A Deck?
As you can see, no matter what type of fire pit you use, you must take some safety measures, such as heat shields, screens, and spark guards.
Tips For Keeping Your New Fire Pit Safer
Imagine yourself enjoying a nice barbeque party with your friends and family. Someone accidentally tips off your propane fire pit, and your use gets on fire! Not a pleasant thing to happen, right?
What Are Some Of The Most Important Things To Be Aware Of When Using A Propane Fire Pit In An Outdoor Setting!
No doubt, propane fire pits are comparatively safer than wood-burning fire pits. Even so, it is better to stay aware of matters for your safety. When you are using a propane fire pit, be careful about the following things:
How long does a propane fire pit last?
The fire pit uses little fuel even at its highest setting. The tank can run for more than 20 hours, which indicates one can be used for a whole season.
How much damage did fire pits cause in 2018?
The majority of these injuries were burns. In 2018, $11.1 billion in property damage occurred in structure fires, including $8 billion in property loss in home fires.
What is the most common form of ignition for gas powered fire pits?
The most common form of ignition for gas powered fire pits is called “match lit”. You don’t have to use a match, it means you are supplying the initial flame, typically with a bbq lighter.
How many BTUs does a fire pit have?
Due to its narrow design, it’s great for tighter spaces like balaconies or small wood decks. It still provides, however, 50,000 BTUs of firepower and heat.
What is a Bali fire pit?
The BALI outdoor fire pit sits a little over an inch off the floor and is an angular fire pit with a square burn area. It has a cabinet body that can house a propane tank, or gas conversion tools and hoses.
Why do you put a fire mat under a firepit?
These mats help minimize the dangers associated with burning debris flying out of the firepit or with an accidental tipover.
What is an outland propane fire pit?
The Outland Living Propane Fire Pit Table is a great smokeless fire pit for the deck that doubles as a table. One of the many benefits of this outland living propane fire pit table is that it combines elegance with a purpose.
What makes a fire pit safe?
The main things that make a fire pit safe to build on a wood deck are the following: Clearance: Making sure that the fire pit is not near flammable objects or has them in proximity to it is vital to preventing a fire on the deck.
What is the danger of a fire pit?
Radiant heat is a largely hidden danger in comparison to the flames and embers of the fire in a fire pit. Through the electromagnetic radiation that the fire gives off, nearby flammable objects such as dry leaves or pine needles can spontaneously combust without ever being touched by fire.
What is a fire pit wind guard?
Wind and flame guards: Wind and flame guards are usually square or rectangular glass partitions that are placed around a fire pit to both ensure safe clearance and also to prevent the wind from catching flames or embers from the fire pit and scattering them across the deck.
How much does a fire pit weigh?
The weight of a fire pit can vary drastically from as low as 38 pounds up to 260 pounds, depending on the model the materials it is constructed out of. (Source: Ohio Flame)
What is the best way to protect a fire pit?
The best way to incorporate base protection in your deck fire pit is to use a hearth pad.
When building a fire pit on a wood deck, do you need to consider the clearance around the fire pit?
(Source: This Old House) This is the area that needs to remain completely clear of any flammable objects that could ignite and spread the fire beyond the fire pit.
Can you have a fire pit in a HOA?
If you live in an HOA-controlled neighborhood, check the restrictions on exterior buildings and accessories on your property, as many HOAs forbid a fire pit even if the city ordinances allow it. It is also a good idea to check if there are “burn bans” in your local area.
What is the best fire pit for a wooden deck?
If you want a sturdy, durable, and large-size fire pit for your wooden deck, then this OKVAC 28” will be the best one that will serve you the best. It is convenient to use and will be worth your money.
What is the best fuel for a fire pit?
Propane is the safest fuel to use in a fire pit for a wooden deck. Propane is non-fume. It is soot-free and has no sparks like other fire fuels. So you can rely on propane for your wooden deck fire pits.
What is a Bali Chimenea fire pit?
Bali Chimenea is a classically designed fire pit that will create a traditional ambiance on your patio. It’s even heat distribution will send warmth all around your patio. Also, this fire pit is sturdy enough to serve you for years. This one is suitable for your wooden deck.
How tall is a fire pit table?
The fire pit table is solid steel made, coated with a quality anti-rusting spray that makes the fire pit table sturdy. That won’t crack or cross. It is 25 inches in height. Space in between the burner restrains the bottom from getting warm.
What is a fire pit made of?
Firepit for wooden decks made of solid material like iron, cast iron, or steel that are eligible for use in any ground without harming that. These decks have supported with a sturdy frame body coated with rust-proof and heat-resistant paint. These fire pits fire fuels are clean fuels like LPG that will burn efficiently without fumes, soot, ...
Why put a spark screen on a fire pit?
It will prevent the debris and char from falling apart on the deck and reduce any fire’s possible risk. It will also protect your deck.
What fuels are used in fire pits?
These fire pits fire fuels are clean fuels like LPG that will burn efficiently without fumes, soot, and chars. If the energy is wood, then spark screens, easy ventilation is present for a safe and secure experience.
