Keeping a fire pit from flooding is important to maintain its function. There are several ways to do this. One way is to make sure the area around the fire pit is level before you start using it. You can also put sand or gravel in the bottom of the pit to help absorb moisture. And if it does start to rain while you’re using the fire pit, make sure to cover it up so the water doesn’t get in.
Choose the Right Fire Pit
The best fire pit for the type of location you have in mind is a very important decision. Think about where you want to put it and then start doing research. Read reviews on different brands and styles, visit a few outdoor stores or do some online comparison shopping. When all is said and done, you’ll be glad that you put in the time and effort to choose a fire pit that will be just right for what you have in mind.
The Design of Your Fire Pit
The design of your fire pit is going to influence how easy it is for you to keep it from flooding. You can choose a fire pit with a mesh screen over the top or a metal screen covering the entire opening. This way, you can keep it from flooding even if there is a heavy storm or wind-driven rain. If there’s no mesh or metal to cover your fire pit, make sure that you put up a tarp or other type of protection as soon as you notice a storm coming on.
The Location of Your Fire Pit
You may have a deck or patio that you love, but if it’s very close to the edge of a hillside it can be dangerous. The perfect fire pit location is flat and in a fairly open area where there is no chance for rain to pool up around it. If it does pool up, it could suck the heat from the fire and put it right into your house.
Ideally, you’ll enjoy using your fire pit as much as possible without worrying too much about how to keep a fire pit from flooding. Thinking through these factors before you start shopping for one will help you out in the long run. You can also buy a fire pit that is designed for use in wet conditions or one that’s elevated above the ground .
Place the Fire Pit in The Right Spot
Fire pits should be placed in a location that is flat and level. A fire pit with a lip around the edge will trap water when it rains, which can cause it to overflow and damage your deck or patio. If you’re putting the pit on a wood surface such as another deck, placing bricks (with the tops even) under the legs will help to level out the surface.
Use a Cover to Keep Rain and Snow out of a Fire Pit
A purpose-made fire pit cover or a tarp with bungee cords will keep rain from getting into the fire pit and causing it to flood. Or, if you have a metal screen over the top of your fire pit, this will prevent most rainfall from getting in. In winter, ice can form on top of a fire pit and cause water to pool on top of the fire pit cover.
A few ways you can prevent this from happening are by removing the screen during winter months, adding sand or gravel to the bottom of your fire pit, or building a surround that’s higher off the ground to keep snow from resting on top of it.
Make Sure Your Fire Pit is Level
A wobbly fire pit makes it harder to cook on, and if the grate isn’t level, you can end up with some undercooked or burnt food. It’s a good idea to check your fire pit periodically for signs of wear and tear. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, take corrective action right away.
Make Sure the Drainage Is Working Properly
A slight slope toward the back and/or slightly higher elevation in the front will help to prevent rainwater from pooling. The screen or cover for your fire pit should catch any water flowing off of it and direct it away from your deck or patio. This way, you can enjoy using your fire pit without worrying about flooding.
Enhance Your Fire Pit with a Flat Surface
You can create a flat surface on any sloped area around your fire pit by using patio pavers. Be sure to only lay them down on an existing patio or deck; putting them directly onto the grass could damage it. This way, you won’t need to constantly be moving food and tools away from the edge of your fire pit.
Keep a Shovel Nearby to Clear Away Any Snow or Ice Buildup
You’ll also need to keep a shovel on hand to clear away any ice or snow that accumulates on top of your fire pit cover. This way, you won’t have to worry about getting too close and accidentally knocking the cover off. With some planning ahead, you can enjoy all of the benefits that come with owning a fire pit without worrying about flooding or how to keep a fire pit from flooding.
Add Sand or Gravel Around the Base of The Fire Pit to Help with Drainage
If the area around your fire pit is not level, or if it isn’t located on a solid surface such as cement, adding sand or gravel to the bottom of the base legs will help to keep water from pooling and prevent flooding. If your vinyl decking gets warped due to moisture build-up underneath your fire pit cover, you can either remove the cover or replace it with a thicker one.
Firepit flooding can be prevented by keeping an eye on how much water is getting inside your fire pit. It’s also important to use a level surface when placing your fire pit and using a draining method that directs water away from your deck, patio, or surrounding area. Covering your fire pit is another excellent way to protect it from rainfall. With these simple tips, you can enjoy having a fire pit without worrying about floods or other problems.
What to do if your Fire Pit Keeps Flooding
If you already have a fire pit and it tends to flood, all is not lost. You can sit around it when it rains if you like, but make sure to use a fire pit cover to keep the water out. If you don’t have one or can’t find yours, improvise with a tarp and some bungee cords.
Many people buy covers for their fire pits, but not everyone has one handy when it rains. In this case, it’s time to be creative. If only there was something that could be draped over the top of your fire pit that was waterproof. Well, you’re in luck! A tarp works perfectly as a makeshift cover for your fire pit.
Stack up some logs at one end of the tarp and lay them across the top of your fire pit. Make sure to drape it over far enough so that all sides are covered. If you don’t want to worry about it coming off in the wind, tie bungee cords around the tarp at several points (at least 3 or 4). Now when it rains you can still enjoy sitting by your fire pit!
A rainproof cover for your fire pit is always best, but if you don’t have one then improvise with a tarp and bungee cords. It’s better than nothing, especially if it’s pouring rain!
