In the winter, when the crisp air is blowing in the evening, you’re seated amid the cosy embrace of flickering fire surrounding the crackle of flames. How would you feel? Delightful! Isn’t it? These days, outdoor fireplaces and fire pits have replaced the traditional campfires, reviving any patio or backyard into an oasis of warmth and ambience. You might be curious about the difference between an outdoor fireplace and a fire pit. Here, we’ll reveal their differences so you’ll learn what’s perfect for you to stay cosy during winter.

Outdoor Fireplace

An outdoor fireplace is a permanent fixture, and they are often architecturally beautiful structures built into a wall to one side of an outdoor space. It allows people to sit in front of an outdoor fireplace to enjoy the delightful flames. A wall can offer privacy or act as a windbreak. If you’re using a wood-burning fireplace, you can direct the smoke upwards and outwards using a flue. 

At Fireplace Masters, we have traditional wood fire, gas and electric options available, so you can choose the one you prefer.

• Wood Fireplaces: We supply and install a range of wood fireplaces from leading brands such as Quadra-Fire, Regency, Blaze, Brunner, Charnwood, etc.
• Gas: We supply and install an extensive range of outdoor gas fireplaces from prominent brands, including Regency, HeatMaster and Lopi. 
• Electric: We supply and install a wide range of electric fireplaces from trusted brands like Regency, Evo, Holbury, Jetmaster, New Forest and Real Flame. 
  

Fire Pit

The fire pit has an open design, facilitating guests to gather around and freely indulge in lively conversations amid the dancing flames. Its modest, low-profile shape nurtures warm connections, facilitating face-to-face interactions and developing treasured moments with loved ones. Fire pits are portable, accessible, affordable options that don’t compromise on shared experiences.

At Fireplace Masters, we stock Patio Horizon Onyx Firepits from the leading brand, Jetmaster. These firepits are built to last as they are made using high-quality stainless steel and include tempered glass gems and easy-to-use ignition controls. With just a button push, you can enjoy a beautiful fire that burns cleanly on a bed of glass gems. It’s now easy to experience the magic of outdoor fires.

How do you decide between an outdoor fireplace and a fire pit?

Choosing an outdoor fireplace or a fire pit boils down to your preferences and requirements. Here are some vital considerations you need to keep in mind:

• Atmosphere: You must consider the mood and the ambience you want to create. Outdoor fireplaces provide a structured, cosy atmosphere, ideal for friendly gatherings. Fire pits offer a more casual and shared setting, encouraging free movement and interaction around the fire.
• Space: Outdoor fireplaces are like permanent fixtures and demand a dedicated space. An outdoor fireplace might be perfect if you have a larger area and require a focal point with added privacy. Conversely, fire pits are more adaptable and easily fit into smaller spaces.
• Functionality: Your requirements will help you to decide better. So, it would help to consider how you’ll use the fire feature. If you like to cook outdoors, you can get outdoor fireplaces that have built-in pizza ovens or grills. Fire pits can roast marshmallows or warm you up on chilly nights; however, they do not provide many cooking options.
• Maintenance: Typically, outdoor fireplaces need more upkeep, including cleaning the chimney and ensuring adequate ventilation. Conversely, fire pits are generally easier to maintain, but you must clean out ashes regularly.
  
  

The Bottom Line 

Ultimately, your preference, space availability, and how you envision using the outdoor fire feature will help you decide between an outdoor fireplace and a firepit.