Fire pits are often made of metal, and when the metal gets too cold, it can cause the paint or finish to chip off and rust to form. Rust is a corrosive substance that can eat away at the metal, causing it to weaken and possibly collapse.
In addition, if rain or snow accumulates on the top of the fire pit, it can cause the structure to become unstable and potentially fall over.
Steps To Protect Your Fire Pit In Winter
- Cover the fire pit with a tarp and secure it tightly around the base; make sure no tarp is hanging low enough to drape over the sides and potentially allow water or melted snow to get inside.
- Add sand to the bottom of your fire pit for extra stability. It’s also a good idea to clean the pit between uses.
- Place a fireproof pad, such as concrete pavers or a metal drip pan, under your fire pit for extra stability. This will help prevent rust from forming and protect your patio surface from drips and melted snow.
- Store your fire pit inside for the winter. If you choose to store your fire pit in a shed or other outbuilding, check to make sure rodents and other pests have not taken up residence inside while it was stored.
- Clean the ashes out of your fire pit before storing it for the season. Ashes leftover from fires contain materials that help protect the metal by forming a barrier against moisture. The ashes provide extra protection against corrosion. Share this article with your friends, everyone should know how to protect their fire pit!
Tips For Using Your Fire Pit In Winter Weather
If you plan to use your fire pit in the winter, make sure it is at least 10 feet away from anything flammable.
Only burn seasoned firewood that will ignite quickly and burn up completely without leaving much residue behind.
Consider Using A Cooking Grill Or Portable Gas Burner Instead Of A Large Bonfire.
When building your fire, place the wood in a crisscross pattern to maximize airflow. This will help to ensure that your fire burns efficiently without creating too much smoke.
Safety Tips For Using A Fire Pit In Winter
Never leave a fire unattended. Make sure to extinguish all fires before going to sleep or leaving the home.
If you use a gas fire pit, make sure to turn it off once the flames have been extinguished and allow it time to cool before throwing dirt on top of the ashes.
Be aware of weather conditions in your area. Dry, windy conditions can quickly cause a fire to spread and become out of control.
Don’t add any liquid or chemicals to your fire pit ashes that may be used in some commercial products designed for this use. They could explode while the fire is burning and potentially injure you or other people nearby.
Pour water on your fire to fully extinguish it. Never use dirt or sand to put out a fire, as this could damage your fire pit.
Conclusion
Fire pits are a great way to enjoy the outdoors during the spring, summer, and fall months. However, they can become hazardous when used in winter weather. Make sure that your fire pit is not being stored directly on wooden surfaces or other flammable materials that could be damaged by melting snow or ice. Also, make sure the area around it is clear of any debris that could cause the structure to tip over or collapse under the weight. Ensure your fire pit is made from a material that will not rust and clean it out between uses to keep it in prime condition for years of enjoyment.
