Are Wood-Burning or Gas-Burning Fire Pits Better?

Fire pits are a great way to spend time with family. During the chilly weather we have here in Michigan, they add a necessary heating element to your outdoor living space, and even in the summer, a cozy fire is a charming way to spend an evening at home.

When designing your new fire pit, you'll have a choice between a wood-burning pit and a gas-burning pit. While both are great options, one might fit your lifestyle and budget a little bit more than the other. Factors like cost, safety, and maintenance levels all come into play when deciding between a gas and a wood-burning fire pit.

Wood-burning fire pits tend to cost less than gas-burning fire pits.

Of course, your budget is a huge part of the decisions you make when designing a new fire pit. If you choose to go the gas-burning route, a gas line will have to be installed. After that, you'll have to keep the tanks filled with gas which could rack up the cost of maintaining your fire pit.

If you choose to go the wood-burning fire pit route, you won't have to pay for a gas line to be installed. You can just simply chop some wood and you're good to go! The overall cost of your fire pit project depends on the size of the structure; however, generally, it is safe to say that it will cost you less to install a wood-burning fire pit.

A gas-burning fire pit requires less maintenance and work than a wood-burning pit.

If you are the type of person who wants as little maintenance as possible when it comes to your new fire pit, the gas-burning option might be for you. While there is not a ton of maintenance required for a wood-burning fire pit, you'll have to clean it out regularly to get rid of any built-up ash and soot. The only maintenance for a gas-burning fire pit should be periodic gas line checks, which should be done by a professional.

Gas fire pits also require less work to get the fire started. With the simple push of a button, you'll be able to enjoy the warmth of the fire. Wood-burning fire pits, on the other hand, require a little bit of time and patience to get the fire going. Starting a fire from scratch could be fun for some, and not so fun for others!

Both gas and wood-burning fire pits have their pros and cons when it comes to safety.

Both types of fire pits are safe overall; however, since we are dealing with fire and gas, it's important to be aware of the hazards. With a gas-burning fire pit, the lines need to be checked regularly by a professional. If you smell gas while using your fire pit, make sure to turn it off immediately and contact a professional.

With a wood-burning fire pit, you don't have to worry about gas leaks. However, it's important to be aware of how close you or your loved ones are standing or sitting next to the fire pit because wood can crackle and pop and send embers flying.

Ready to choose between a gas or a wood-burning fire pit? Call us to schedule a consultation!

Fire pits bring warmth, light, and conversation to any property, and our team at Outdoor Expressions Landscaping has 19 years of experience designing the hardscaping elements that turn a house into a home. If you live in the East Lansing, MI area, or nearby area like Okemos or Haslett, call us today at (517) 333-7999 to schedule a consultation for your new gas or wood-burning fire pit!