Natural Stone Fire Pit Design & Maintenance Considerations <span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;" class="mce_SELRES_start"></span> <span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;" class="mce_SELRES_start"></span> In a previous blog, we discussed the most popular types of fire pits. With this in mind, it’s now time to think about some specific design and maintenance considerations for your project. Here are a few things to consider before you begin to build a natural stone fire pit: Design Considerations for Any Fire Pit Whether you’ll be using concrete blocks, natural stone, or another material to build your fire pit, you’ll want to start by checking local codes and ordinances. A special permit may need to be obtained in some areas before a fire pit can be built. In areas where fire pits are allowed, there may still be restrictions regarding its design details and specifications, including how close the fire pit can be to a home or other structure. When designing a custom fire pit, aesthetics are also extremely important. Put together inspiration photos and gather as much information as possible to get a true feel for what you want to create. If designing a natural stone fire pit, use the many different stone types and cuts available to your advantage. Consider, for example, combining different kinds of stone (or other colors of the same stone) to create a truly one-of-a-kind look. Mixing various tones, such as warm tones with cooler tones (as found in Liberty Hill granite), can also be a great way to add a little ambiance. Finally, using different cuts (such as rectangular and strip patterns) in your design can give the finished fire pit a stunning look and feel that your family and friends will look forward to gathering around all year long. Maintaining a Natural Stone Fire Pit: What You Need to Know Should you opt for a natural stone fire pit, there are some practical maintenance tips you’ll want to keep in mind as well. While many stones are very resistant to heat, the most important thing to be aware of is that they’re not 100% heat-proof, and under the right conditions, stone can crack in extreme heat. This occurs when natural stone is exposed to very high heat in a short period of time. This extreme and sudden fluctuation in temperature can be too much for even the strongest stones and could result in cracking. For this reason, we always advise customers to build their fires slowly; rather than going for a roaring fire from the start, it’s encouraged to start with a small fire and gradually build up to a larger one. This will allow the stone the time it needs to adjust and prevent damage. Finding the Materials You Need for Your Fire Pit Project There’s a lot to consider when designing and building an outdoor fire pit. From choosing the right material to coming up with a design that will encourage people to gather and share memories for many years to come, it’s essential you find the right (and best) materials to bring your vision to life. At Connecticut Stone, you can turn to us for all your needs. We carry a wide range of high-quality natural stone products and supplies to kickstart your project, and our customer service is second-to-none. Visit our showroom or stone yard for yourself to see all that we have to offer; we’re currently accepting appointments at our stone yard, and our showroom is open throughout the week. If you have any questions about how we can help with your fire pit project, reach out to our team at (203) 882-1000.
