Wood Vs. Gas Fire Pit

Few things bring a greater sense of peace and nostalgia than sitting around a campfire with family and friends. You can bring that same nostalgia into your backyard sanctuary by installing a fire pit. There are lots of different options to choose from when it comes to fire pits, but they come in two basic classifications: wood pits and gas pits. Which one is best for your backyard? Let's consider the pros and cons of each. 

Wood  Fire Pits

A wood fire pit uses wood for fuel, just like a fireplace or a campfire.

Pros:

• The realistic feel of a campfire with a bigger and brighter flame.
• Wood pits put out a lot more heat.
• You get the realistic sounds of roaring flames and popping embers.
• There is nothing like the scent produced by burning wood.
• A wood fueled fire pit allows you to cook over it.
• Wood pits tend to have a lower initial cost and can cost less to enjoy in areas where wood is abundant.
• You can educate your kids how to build a campfire and about fire safety. 

Cons:

• You have to cut and split wood for your pit.
• Those who have allergies or respiratory issues might suffer from smoke, which may have an unpleasant odor.
• Charcoal and ashes have to be cleaned out and disposed of frequently.

Gas Fire Pits

A gas fire pit uses LP (propane) or piped natural gas as fuel and includes lava rock, ceramic logs or glass.

Pros:

• There is no smoke to deal with.
• You don't have to worry about finding and splitting wood.
• There is little to no cleanup involved.
• You have the option of a more modern and more decorative look.
• You can use a wider variety of heat mediums including: glass, lava, ceramic coals or ceramic logs.
• Gas pits are much quicker and easier to get started.
• A wider variety of heights, shapes and design options are available.
• They are safer to use, because you have more control over the flame and you don't have to worry about sparks and embers popping out of the fire. 

Cons:

• They are not as realistic when it comes to sound and scent.
• There is no big, bright, roaring flame putting out lots of heat.
• Paying for the gas can be more expensive than using wood if wood is abundant in your area.
• The initial cost of a gas fire pit is usually higher than a wood fire pit.
• You have to conceal the fuel tank.
• Burner cleaning and replacing the heating medium are added maintenance issues.

Whether a wood pit or a gas pit has more appeal to you and your family, it is a great addition to include in your backyard sanctuary where you can enjoy the warmth of a fire with family and friends. Contact Walden to brighten up your backyard, and don't forget to check out our fire starters. All you need is one to light up a whole wood fire.