Identifying the Perfect Location for a Fire Table
Once you’ve decided which fuel suits your needs, the next step is to determine where your fire table should go. The placement of your fire pit table makes a substantial difference regarding it safety, functionality and aesthetics. Before setting anything up or buying a unit, take stock of the following factors.
Safety Concerns
First off, placing your fire pit table in an appropriate location is crucial from a safety standpoint. The chosen site should avoid overhanging branches, curtains or other flammable items that could fall or blow into the fire. Find a level surface like concrete, pavement or a hardwood deck. Refrain from using an uneven one on grass or dirt, if possible.
Functional Use
Next, factor functionality into where you place your fire table. A fire pit table set too far from seating areas is inconvenient. People want to gather around one while they’re socializing outside. Consider where you usually sit during BBQs. Will the fire pit table work there or could it if you moved furniture? Arranging seating around the table is always an alternative. Position sofas around a low-set fire pit as you would around a cocktail table. For propane and natural gas fire tables, be mindful of tank storage and the position of gas lines.
Aesthetic Appeal
Finally, consider how your fire pit table looks in your outdoor space’s overall layout and organization. Do you want something that’s going to make a dramatic visual impact? If so, consider placing the unit in a central location as this will help draw notice. Do you prefer a more seamless integration with current outdoor decor, landscape and architecture? Place the table out of high-traffic areas where it’s less prominent. Small patios may feel cramped when a fire table is centrally located. See how it works to one side.
Permanent or Movable Fire Feature?
Once you’ve figured out the purpose, fuel and placement of your fire pit table, you’ve got an important decision to make. Do you want to make a big commitment (and investment) to install a fire table that is permanently built-in to your outdoor setting, or is a heavy but portable model more to your liking?
Fixed fire tables are safer than portable ones, since they cannot be jarred by children or animals. They also can be customized to match your existing outdoor architectural style and materials. Unless you’re Bob Vila, you will likely need to hire a contractor or mason to construct a permanent fire pit table or install a pre-made one that mounts to the surface.
Portable firepit tables are typically smaller and less expensive than fixed alternatives but give you flexibility to move around. This is advantageous if you periodically like to rearrange furnishings or need to for various events. You can choose a design, color and material that complements or contrasts what you have in place.
Strategic placement of your fire pit table
Your choice of fuel greatly affects your location options for a fire table. Natural gas versions will likely be placed closer to your home unless you’re willing to splurge on gas lines, while propane ones require you to lug and hide unsightly tanks. Ethanol and other fuels are a bit more flexible but have other challenges. Once you’ve decided on placement, it’s time to turn your attention to the material used to construct your fire pit table. The next section of our guide will walk you through the most popular alternatives.
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