Outdoor Fireplace or Fire Pit?

Deciding Between An Outdoor Fireplace or a Fire Pit

Those living in the Bay Area who plan to install a fire feature might come down to two choices- should you get a fire pit or a fireplace for your home?

Patio Paver Fire Pit Backyard

Factors may include cost and how it can ultimately beautify your home, but here are a few more essential elements you can consider:

Property Area

Outdoor firepits may be built on open spaces in patios, and they are about a foot in height. They can’t do much when you want some privacy; rather, a fire pit is used to great effect when you plan to make new friends. Having too much wind in open spaces may cause spark and smoke issues.

On the other hand, an outdoor fireplace is much taller than pits, and can serve as a barrier, a partial wall or an element that could become a room’s focal point. Having too high a wall could keep freely-moving wind away from your property, though.

Investment Return

These two fire features can surely increase your home’s property value if you ever decide to sell. It’s a unique home piece that will be remembered by real estate agents and potential buyers alike!

Home appraisers are keen to count permanent outdoor fireplaces as part of the overall home value because they add living space, which buyers factor in when thinking about square footage. In this case, either a fire pit or a fireplace can immediately add to your family’s enjoyment and potentially add property value when you need it in the future!

Purpose

How do you intend to use the outdoor space? This is one of the most important aspects that you should ask. Would you have friends and family over regularly, or do you want something more romantic?

A fire pit will do well if you intend to maximize your outdoor space for barbecues and social gatherings. You can constantly set up a casual, relaxed atmosphere with drinks and food in a 360-degree seating for an amazing soiree. Fireplaces are grand, central pieces that couples or lovers will enjoy more. You can set intimate seating arrangements, perfect for curling up or for drinking wine.

Safety

You will also need to factor in safety, especially if you have young kids or pets. Consider placing a fire pit somewhere nearer an open space and away from potential fire hazards. Fireplaces are safer in the way that the fire and smoke is somewhat confined, but both still require an emergency extinguishing backup.

Viking Pavers can build your dream fire pit or fireplace according to your exact specifications.

Our experts can beautify your home in the Bay Area by providing unparalleled work quality and stunning attention to detail. If you’re looking for a backyard fire pit or fireplace design with pavers, give us a call at 800-941-1014 or use our free quote online form.