A gas fire pit can turn your backyard into a cozy gathering place, perfect for entertaining and enjoying warm evenings under the stars. But when it comes to getting your gas fire pit, you have some decisions to make. Choosing a DIY Fire Pit vs Complete Ready to Finish Kit. If you want a fire feature that is all ready to go without having to design or build it, a complete system is what you need. All of the hard work is done for you, and you can still customize your shape, size, and color. But, if you are looking for a bit more creativity and customization with the materials and design, you might want to build it yourself (DIY), or buy a complete kit. Both choices have their advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore these two options to help you make an informed decision for your outdoor space.
DIY Fire Pit
A DIY gas fire pit is a great option for you to have complete control over the design, size, and materials. This allows you to create a unique feature that perfectly complements your outdoor space. You can choose finishing materials that you already have around your home, or materials that are more cost effective. Many people choose to use paver kits when going this route. Paver fire pits are one of the simpler and more affordable options and our burner packages will be the absolute best way to add fire.
This creative freedom empowers individuals to tailor their fire pit to seamlessly blend with their existing landscape and personal aesthetic, a feat often unattainable with prefabricated kits.
Beyond aesthetics, the DIY approach also holds the potential for substantial cost savings. Depending on the materials and complexity of your design, savvy builders can often construct a gas fire pit at a fraction of the retail price. This affordability factor can be particularly appealing for those working within a tight budget. There’s also a unique satisfaction that comes from building something with your own hands. Completing a DIY fire pit can be a rewarding project.
But be aware of the challenges of DIY fire pits…
Building a gas fire pit from scratch is a rewarding project, but it’s also essential to be realistic about the challenges involved. Even a simple gas fire pit requires planning, gathering materials, and careful construction. You’ll need to research the best techniques and dedicate time to the build. Expect to spend several weekends or evenings on the project.
While some designs are beginner-friendly, others might involve masonry, metalworking, or even gas line installation. If you’re not comfortable with these skills, or don’t want to do the math involved, it’s crucial to choose a simpler design or seek professional help.
A DIY fire pit can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to enhance your outdoor living space, especially when working with a landscape company. By carefully considering your skills, time constraints, and design preferences, you can create a beautiful and functional fire pit that complements your home and overall landscape design.
Ready to Finish Fire Pit Kits
A ready to finish kit is another great option! These kits come with everything you need to hook up and burn a gas fire. You simply finish the kit with your choice of veneer. Some favorites are tile, stone, granite, steel, stucco, or wood, you can get creative! Their primary advantage lies in their convenience.
These kits arrive with all the essential components neatly packaged together and include an aluminum frame, backer board optional, pan and burner, a key valve for flame height adjustment, and two vents (you’ll decide where these go and cut the openings). This eliminates the need for sourcing materials individually, making the assembly process straightforward and accessible even for those with limited DIY experience.
And that’s why…
ready to finish kits offer a significant time-saving advantage. Unlike the potentially lengthy process of building a fire pit from scratch, kits can be assembled in a matter of hours, allowing you to enjoy your new fire pit sooner rather than later.
Finally, safety and compliance are paramount when dealing with gas appliances, and reputable kits prioritize these concerns. They are typically designed to meet relevant safety standards, offering peace of mind that your fire pit is built to be safe and reliable. This eliminates the guesswork and potential risks associated with DIY gas line installations or improper construction.
The Trade-offs…
While gas fire pit kits excel in convenience and speed, it’s important to consider their limitations. One notable drawback is the limited customization they offer. While our kits may provide a range of design variations, they ultimately constrain your ability to create a truly unique and personalized fire pit. If you have a specific vision or aesthetic in mind, a kit might not fully satisfy your creative ideas.
Another consideration is the higher upfront cost. Kits typically come with a higher price tag compared to sourcing materials individually for a DIY project. This is due to the convenience factor and the inclusion of all necessary components, so if you’re on a tight budget, a DIY fire pit will likely be cheaper than buying a kit.
Making the Decision
The right choice for you depends on your priorities, budget, and skills. Here’s a quick guide:
- Choose DIY if: You enjoy hands-on projects, have a specific design in mind, and want to save on costs.
- Choose a Ready to Finish Kit if: You prioritize convenience, want a quick and easy solution, and are comfortable with the design options available. You will have the ability to use the materials you desire to complete the design, allowing you the ability to match your patio or deck.
While complete gas fire pit kits offer undeniable benefits, they also come with trade-offs. If you prioritize absolute customization or seek to minimize costs, a DIY approach might be more suitable.
However, if convenience and speed are most important, a kit can still be a fantastic way to add a customized fire feature to your outdoor space.
But no matter which path you choose, a gas fire pit will undoubtedly upgrade your home and provide countless hours of enjoyment for years to come. Happy fire pit building (or assembling)!
