Fire pits are one of the best additions to any backyard. However, because of their shape, they tend to collect water when it rains.
Unfortunately, water can break your fire pit, which is why you should prevent it from pooling.
This article is for those who want to learn how to keep a fire pit from filling with water!
Can Fire Pits Get Wet?
Yes! In general, you can leave fire pits outside even if it’s raining. Manufacturers design fire pits so they have drainage systems underneath.
Still, there are some downsides to failing to protect a fire pit from filling with water.
Top Reasons for Preventing Water From Collecting in a Fire Pit
Here are some reasons to prevent fire pits from filling with water.
- The water can cause rusting and eventually break your fire pit over time.
- You’ll have trouble relighting a wet fire pit.
- Moisture can interfere with gas burners in fire pits. Your fire pit’s efficiency will be reduced.
- Burning wet fuel in fire pits can create excess smoke that lowers air quality.
- Stagnant water in fire pits can attract insects. You can prevent mosquitoes and flies from breeding in your fire pit.
- You can prolong the life of your fire pit and save on the extra costs of having it fixed!
6 Ways to Prevent Water From Filling a Fire Pit
These are the best ways to prevent water from filling a fire pit!
1 – Use a Fire Pit Cover
Covers can protect your fire pits from rain, snow, dust, and other debris. There are many types, and each has its advantages!
- Metal Covers: Metal covers are heavy-duty, and they last a lifetime. In emergencies, you may use a metal lid containing an unwanted fire.
- Vinyl Covers: Vinyl covers are lightweight, waterproof, and cheap. You can have them customized to fit your fire pit snugly, but they can be unsightly for some.
- Wooden Covers: Wooden fire pit covers have great aesthetics and functionality. With a wooden cover, you can use your fire pit as a table when it’s not lit up!
2 – Install a Drainage System
Most fire pits come with drainage systems, but if you’re making one from scratch, you must install it yourself.
To do this, you may drill holes into the bottoms of above-ground fire pits. It’s also possible to enlarge existing holes with the same method.
For those making classic fire pits, you can use drain pipes to lead water away during rain. In this case, you must take precautions to protect the pipes from melting in the heat.
Of course, you should consult a professional if you don’t have a background in using power tools.
3 – Clean Your Fire Pit After Each Use
Ash, debris, and burnt wood can easily clog the drainage holes in fire pits. Because of this, cleaning a fire pit after each use is a necessity.
Maintaining the cleanliness of your fire pit is one of the best steps you can take to prevent water from pooling. Not to mention, burning fire pit debris is illegal in some areas!
4 – Build Fire Pits With Porous Walls
If you have a homemade fire pit, you may improve drainage by using porous rocks as your materials.
Some rocks allow water to pass through, so you don’t have to worry about pooling. Here are a few to consider.
- Pea Gravel: Pea gravel is great for drainage and is comfortable to walk on. You can use this stone for the bottoms of fire pits.
- Crushed Limestone: Crushed limestone is a sturdy material that can withstand being in the elements for years. It absorbs heat well and lets water run between cracks.
- Lava Rocks: Lava rocks give your fire pit a rustic look, and it lets rainwater drain properly!
5 – Move Portable Fire Pits Indoors
If you have a portable fire pit, you should consider storing it in your shed or garage when it’s not in use.
Doing this is the simplest way to avoid getting fire pits wet in rain. Plus, you don’t have to spend on covers and drainage systems.
The only downside to moving a fire pit is that it’s heavy, and you must wait a few hours before moving it. This is because fire pits can take up to 12 hours to cool after use!
6 – Position Your Fire Pit on a Slope
Finally, before constructing a fire pit, you should consider its placement. Having a fire pit on a slope means you can take advantage of its natural drainage!
You can dig a shallow ditch around the fire pit to funnel water downhill.
Final Thoughts
Preventing a fire pit from filling with water will protect it from rust and costly damages. You can do it by buying a fire pit cover and installing drainage systems.
On top of this, you should clean your fire pit after each use and consider moving it indoors.
Don’t worry. If you follow this guide, your fire pit can last for years!
Ben has a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering. When not constructing or remodeling X-Ray Rooms, Cardiovascular Labs, and Pharmacies, you can find him at home with wife and two daughters. Outside of family, He loves grilling and barbequing on his Big Green Egg and Blackstone Griddle, as well as working on projects around the house.
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