Outdoor firepits can really transform an outdoor space into somewhere everyone wants to spend time. In summer it is nice for cooking on and sitting round into the night; at other times of the year it also makes a nice gathering point for you and guests.

They provide warmth, spark creativity and discussion, ignite passion and provide a unique focal point for your garden, but if you are thinking of buying one, there are some things to consider:

Style

Styles of fire pits vary from basic metal bowls to elaborate, multi-level units that can be a combination of fire pit and beer cooler. Weighing up your budget alongside what you need is a good way to find that happy medium and provide you with the perfect fire pit.

Laws

Fire pits need to adhere to certain regulations; for example, they can’t be built on covered porches or be used under low branches or in windy areas. Always check with your homeowner’s association or city council for restrictions on outdoor fire pits, fireplaces and the burning of certain fuels.

Fuels

Most fire pits are either wood, propane or gas burning. Propane and gas are much neater than others but won’t provide you with that authentic crackling wood sound and smell. If you burn wood you will have to source and store a moderate stock pile whilst gas and propane are much easier to operate and ignite and you won’t have to deal with large storage spaces.

Materials

Always choose a material that will age well to extend the life of your investment. Cast aluminium is less likely to rust, whereas copper is highly fashionable but has a tendency to stain.

Cost

You can find a nice safe fire pit model for around £200 but depending on your budget you can go higher or lower than that. More expensive materials will drive up the cost but may save you money in the long run with their durability and easy-to-maintain nature. Deciding on whether you’re going to burn wood, propane or smokeless fuels will also influence the long-term costs.