bonfire

Wood Vs. Gas Fire Pit

Backyard Wood 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. 

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Stack of firewood
Family around the fire

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