You need to put Sand in the bottom of a Fire Pit, because the sand serves as a barrier between the wood and the ground, helping to protect the fire pit from developing cracks. Additionally, the sand helps to extinguish the flames more quickly if needed, and it also prevents sparks from flying out of the pit and potentially starting a fire elsewhere.
With the summer season finally arriving, many people are dusting off their fire pits and getting ready to enjoy an evening around a roaring flame. While most of these individuals know how to build a proper pit and maintain it through the seasons, they might still be wondering why putting sand in the bottom of a fire pit is such a good idea for their fire pit. Here are some ideas on why putting sand in the bottom of a fire pit is so important to consider when building your outdoor oasis.
Keeps The Fire Glass Clean
If you have ever experienced looking into a fire but not being able to see it because there is too much ash mixed with the fuel, then you know how this can ruin an evening. Burning wood embers or charcoal produces ash, and you probably don’t want to be breathing that into your lungs while you are inhaling the smoke of the fire. Putting sand in the bottom of a fire pit prevents this because it absorbs any ash that might fall through the grate, keeping everything clean for your enjoyment.
Absorbs Heat
As your fire burns, heat rises and can be problematic if not controlled. If you put a cover over your fire pit without doing it this way, then the heat will only rise and do nothing but leave you with more of a mess than you started with. Putting sand in the bottom of your fire pit will allow the heat to be absorbed, keeping the rim of your pit cool so you don’t accidentally burn yourself on it.
Keeps The Fire Burning Hot
As with absorbing any unwelcome ash, sand also keeps the fire burning hot because it absorbs some of the byproducts of combustion which can detract from the strength of the flames themselves. This way, you get a hotter fire, and more even flames too.
Helps Deter Pets From Enjoying The Fire Too Much
If you have a dog or cat that enjoys everything about an evening by the fire except for when it is time to go inside, then putting some sand in the bottom of your pit might help solve those issues. While it is not a perfect solution by any means, animals do have a hard time sitting on sand because of the way the granules feel to their skin and fur, making them less likely to want to sit down for an extended period of time.
An More Accessible Surface For Grilling
If you are using your pit as a means to cook food, then sand in the bottom of your pit will make the surface more accessible for cooking, much like when you use it as a grill. The sand still allows for airflow under what you are cooking so that the flames can continue to deliver enough heat for everything to cook properly.
The sand at the bottom of your pit will provide so many benefits for your enjoyment throughout the year, and it is easy to put in too. When you are building your pit, simply lay down a layer of sand before putting in the fire grate, then the rest of the materials that you intend on using. You can always add more later when needed or if you are switching up what you are using.
So, if you were wondering why putting sand in the bottom of a fire pit is such a good idea for your fire pit, you now know why it will be beneficial to your overall enjoyment of your pit. If you want fast, easy results when building yours then check out our guide on how to build an outdoor fire pit.
