Having a fire pit under a covered patio would be nice because it is multi-functional. It would give off heat to keep you and your guests warm, but it would also bring together a camping atmosphere that would be sure to make everyone happy. You’d even get to make s’mores and hot dogs without taking a trip into your kitchen!
You’re probably thinking that sounds too good to be true. Well, you’re in luck because it is true! You can actually put a fire pit under a covered patio. But there are many dos and don’ts that you should understand before putting a fire pit under a covered patio.
Let’s talk about the don’ts and what not to use under a patio cover first before we go into detail about the safest way to have a fire pit under a covered patio.
Can Wood-Burning Fire Pits Go Under Covered Patios
For starters, wood-burning fires should never be used under a covered patio. If there isn’t enough airflow, the toxic smoke produced by the wood can build up quickly making the ratio to toxic smoke and oxygen dangerous.
Another reason not to use a wood burning fire pit under a covered patio is the potential for fire from sparks. Propane or natural gas flames don’t produce sparks like wood.
Should Fire Pits Go Under A Cloth Covered Patio Tent
You should not use any type of fire pit under a cloth based patio cover. No matter the fuel to produce the fire pit flames, there’s just too much potential for the flame to catch the cloth on fire. The heat alone can melt the material even if the flame isn’t close enough to catch a fire.
I would also be careful around patio covers that have side cloth material as they also could catch on fire or melt from the heat.
Can You Use a Fire Pit Under a Small Covered Patio Close to House
If you have a small covered patio that is located close to your house, you should not use a fire put underneath. All fire pits should be a minimum of 10 feet away from your house, including overhead.
You also shouldn’t use a fire pit under a low flat sloped roof as the roof isn’t tall enough to provide the safe distance away from the fire pit.
Fire pits are also not recommended to use in a screened in covered patio.
Best Ways to Use a Fire pit under a Covered Patio
For starters, most cities require pre-approval before installing any type of fire pit. Check with your local municipality and local fire department to make sure you’re fire pit is legal and safe.
You should also make sure that the location, ventilation, flooring type, and ceiling height meets the requirements of the specific fire pit before purchase.
Though this might make you fearful to even think of this, you should always have a fire extinguisher within easy reach. Though the chances are low, there is still a chance of the flames to catch something on fire. It’s better to be prepared than to be unprepared with a patio in flames.
This is good safety practice for any fire pit no matter the location.
Gas Fueled Fire Pits Are Best Under Patio Roofs
If you think your covered patio ceiling is tall enough and far enough away from your house, the best type of fire pit is propane or natural gas based. These fire pits have a safer flame with no sparks and can be easily turned off quickly.
Gas burning fire pits still need a lot of ventilation to be used safely under a covered patio. Most coffee table height gas burning fire pits will work well under a covered patio. Their lower profile should give you the required distance from your covered patio roof.
There are several different choices for low profile gas burning fire pits but our favorite is the Cosiest Coffee Table Propane Fire Pit. With it’s low profile and included extras, it makes a great fire pit to put on your covered patio. At only 18″ tall and included glass wind guard and fire glass it’s a great option.
If your patio roof is taller, then this Outland Fire Pit Table is a good choice since the propane tank fits under the table for a clean look with no gas lines showing.
If your covered patio gets really cold, your might want to opt for additional heating options. We discuss in detail the best outdoor heaters for a covered patio in a separate article.
Conclusion
If your heart is set on having a fire pit on your covered patio, make sure you take all the proper safety precautions and get the right type of fire pit. Before purchasing any fire pit, read the manual and talk to your local fire department. It may take a little more research, but it’s worth it to stay safe!!
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