Spending time outdoors in the fall becomes even more enjoyable with the warmth and ambiance of a fire. Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces are perfect hardscape additions for autumn, extending your outdoor living season and creating a cozy atmosphere for entertaining guests, roasting marshmallows with family, or simply relaxing under the stars. A professional landscaping company can help you design and install a fire feature that complements your outdoor space and suits your lifestyle.

In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of adding a fire pit or outdoor fireplace to your landscape and take a closer look at the various types available, helping you choose the one that’s perfect for your home.

Benefits of Installing a Fire Pit or Outdoor Fireplace

Before diving into the different types of fire features, let’s talk about why adding one to your landscape is such a great idea:

1. Extends Outdoor Living: A fire pit or fireplace creates a warm and inviting space that allows you to enjoy your outdoor areas well into the fall and even winter. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings or enjoying a quiet evening outdoors, the heat from a fire can make your patio or backyard comfortable even as temperatures drop.

2. Enhances Aesthetic Appeal: Fire features are visually striking elements that can serve as the focal point of your landscape. Whether you choose a modern, sleek fire pit or a rustic stone fireplace, these additions can transform your outdoor space and elevate its design.

3. Increases Property Value: Well-designed hardscape features, like fire pits and fireplaces, not only improve the functionality of your outdoor space but also increase your property’s value. These features are attractive to potential buyers and can set your home apart in the real estate market.

4. Provides Year-Round Use: Fire pits and fireplaces aren’t just for fall—they can be enjoyed throughout the year. Whether you’re warming up during a chilly spring evening or gathering around the fire on a summer night, these features make your outdoor space usable year-round.

Types of Fire Pits and Outdoor Fireplaces

When it comes to choosing the right fire feature for your landscape, you have several options. A professional landscaping company can guide you through the process and help you select a design that matches your outdoor aesthetic, budget, and space. Here are some popular types of fire pits and outdoor fireplaces to consider:

Types of Fire Pits

Wood-Burning Fire Pits:

Overview: Wood-burning fire pits are a classic choice that brings the authentic experience of crackling wood and the scent of burning logs to your backyard. These fire pits can be designed in various styles, from simple metal bowls to more elaborate stone or brick structures.

Pros:

• Offers a traditional and rustic ambiance.
• Provides high heat output, making it perfect for cooler fall evenings.
• Inexpensive to operate (just need wood for fuel).

Cons:

• Requires regular cleanup of ash and debris.
• Produces smoke, which may be a concern for those with nearby neighbors or sensitivities.
• May not be legal in your city/township.

Best For: Homeowners who love the smell and sound of wood-burning fires and want an authentic outdoor fire experience.

Gas Fire Pits:

Overview: Gas fire pits are powered by either natural gas or propane, offering a cleaner and more convenient alternative to wood-burning options. They can be custom-built into your patio or installed as a freestanding feature.

Pros:

• Easy to start and extinguish—just flip a switch.
• Produces no smoke or ash, making it a low-maintenance option.
• Provides consistent, controllable heat output.

Cons:

• Requires a gas line installation or propane tank setup.
• Lacks the traditional wood-burning experience.

Best For: Homeowners seeking convenience and a clean, modern look with minimal maintenance.

Portable Fire Pits:

Overview: Portable fire pits offer flexibility and can be moved around your yard or patio. They are often made of metal and come in various styles, including wood-burning and gas options.

Pros:

• Highly versatile and can be used in different areas of your outdoor space.
• Budget-friendly compared to custom-built fire pits.
• Can be stored away when not in use, preserving your landscape.

Cons:

• Less permanent and may not provide the same level of design integration as a custom-built fire pit.

Best For: Homeowners looking for a temporary or flexible fire feature solution that can be moved or stored as needed.

Types of Outdoor Fireplaces

Masonry Fireplaces:

Overview: Custom-built masonry fireplaces are permanent structures made from materials like stone, brick, or concrete. These fireplaces are often the centerpiece of a patio or outdoor living area and can include chimneys to direct smoke away from the seating area.

Pros:

• Provides a grand, luxurious feel to any outdoor space.
• Offers excellent heat output, making it ideal for fall and winter use.
• Can be designed to match your home’s architecture or outdoor design.

Cons:

• Requires a larger budget due to the custom build and materials.
• Needs ample space, making it less suitable for small yards or patios.

Best For: Homeowners looking for a statement piece that adds significant aesthetic and functional value to their outdoor space.

Prefabricated Outdoor Fireplaces:

Overview: Prefabricated fireplaces are pre-built units that can be installed on your patio or in your yard. These fireplaces are available in a variety of styles and materials and can be powered by wood or gas.

Pros:

• Quicker and more affordable to install than custom-built masonry fireplaces.
• Comes in a range of styles and sizes, making it suitable for various outdoor spaces.
• Can be moved or relocated with some effort.

Cons:

• May not offer the same level of customization or durability as a masonry fireplace.

Best For: Homeowners looking for a more affordable and convenient fireplace option without sacrificing style.

Chiminea:

Overview: A chiminea is a freestanding fireplace with a bulbous base and a narrow chimney on top. Traditionally made from clay, modern versions are also available in metal and cast iron.

Pros:

• Compact and ideal for small patios or yards.
• Offers a unique, rustic look with a charming design.
• The enclosed design helps direct smoke upward and away from guests.

Cons:

• Less heat output compared to larger fireplaces or fire pits.
• Clay chimineas can crack if exposed to moisture or freezing temperatures.

Best For: Homeowners with smaller outdoor spaces who want a decorative and functional fire feature.

A fire pit might be ideal if you’re looking for an informal, open space where guests can gather around, while a fireplace provides a more structured and formal seating area. A professional landscaping company can help you choose the best fire feature for your outdoor space and ensure it’s installed safely and correctly.

Conclusion

When deciding between a fire pit or an outdoor fireplace, consider your specific needs, budget, and available space. With various options to choose from, including wood-burning fire pits, gas-powered options, and grand masonry fireplaces, you can find the fire feature that best suits your landscape. Whether you want to create a cozy backyard retreat or a stunning focal point for entertaining, a professional landscaping company can bring your vision to life.

At Blooms Landscaping, we specialize in designing and installing custom fire pits and outdoor fireplaces that complement your outdoor space and enhance your landscape’s beauty. Contact us today to get started on your perfect fall fire feature.

We proudly serve the following cities in the Washtenaw County area: Ann Arbor, Chelsea, Dexter, Manchester, Pittsfield Township, Saline, Ypsilanti, Superior Township, Jackson, Brooklyn, Irish Hills, Spring Arbor, Tecumseh, and Adrian.