Whether you want to toast marshmallows in your backyard or stay warm on cool fall evenings,  the uses for fire pits are almost endless. However, there’s a catch; if you want to enjoy all the uses of a fire pit, its design, location, and size must be perfect for your lifestyle.

Walking into a lawn and garden store or browsing online gives you an overwhelming array of options, making choosing the right fire pit confusing and frustrating.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect fire pit design for your lifestyle. We will discuss some popular types of fire pits, various fuel sources, and pit materials.

Types of Fire Pits

Fire pits enhance your outdoor comfort and serve as a great gathering spot for friends and family. Choosing the right type of fire pit can elevate your patio or backyard’s ambiance, making it a more inviting space to spend your free time.

Fire Pit Table

Fire pit tables come in various styles, but all rest on four legs. The design is similar to outdoor tables, only with a fire pit in the center. You can use the table edges to hold drinks or to prop your feet up—just remember to stay away from the fire.

These types of fire pits tend to be larger than other styles. The heavy construction and large size also make moving fire pit tables difficult. If you decide on a fire pit table, knowing where to place it before bringing it home is a good idea.

Fire Rings

Some homeowners want a fire pit that resembles a traditional campfire. Consider adding a fire ring to your backyard if it sounds appealing to you.

Fire rings are typically constructed from metal, are lightweight, and are relatively easy to move. You can find these fire pits with or without the bottom bowl, giving you additional design options.

The ring keeps the fire contained, whether sitting on the ground or in a bowl. It also prevents embers from spreading. However, keeping the fire ring off the ground may be a good idea when pets and children are running around.

A great advantage of fire rings is that they come in multiple designs, so it’s easy to find one that fits your lifestyle and preferences.

Fire Bowls

Fire bowls come in all sizes, making it easy to find one to fit your space. Smaller fire bowls are easily portable, and all sizes are easy to clean.

You can place the bowl on the ground or elevate it, whichever look is best for you. Elevating the fire bowl allows heat to dissipate, something to consider if you live in cooler climates. The excess heat can help keep you warm on chilly evenings.

Fire Columns

Smaller than other types of fire pits, columns can give your outdoor space an elegant and dramatic appearance. 

Some fire columns come with small bowls, so you can still roast marshmallows over the fire. Others contain recessed compartments that look like the fire is on top of the column; think of something resembling a torch.

Anyone with a small patio or limited outdoor space should consider a fire column. You can also find fire columns with intriguing detailing to make it a noticeable structure in your backyard or patio.

Tabletop Fire Pits

Not everyone has an expansive backyard or large patio area. In that case, a table fire pit may be perfect if you have room for a small outdoor dining set.

Tabletop fire pits are small and can fit easily on almost any table, providing ambiance and warmth. Since they are smaller than other fire pits, you are slightly limited in their use. However, these fire pits are portable and easy to clean.