Can a Pergola be Constructed Over a Fire Pit in the Shawnee, KS, Area?

A pergola is an impressive outdoor living feature that would add vertical interest to your landscape, and a fire pit can add cozy warmth. You may wonder if a pergola can be built over a fire pit at your home in the Shawnee, KS, area. The answer is yes; a pergola can be built over a fire pit, but it’s important to take some precautions. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Basic Fire Pit Tips

Any time fire is involved, it’s essential to proceed cautiously, and fire pits are no exception. Be sure to take all fire safety precautions and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. It’s also a good idea to keep a fire blanket handy in case of an emergency. Your landscape contractor will be familiar with local codes to ensure your fire pit and pergola are built accordingly.

Natural Gas vs. Wood-Burning Fire Pits

It is generally recommended that a natural gas fire pit be used when it is being built beneath a pergola because of the potential for hot ash and embers to escape the fire pit. Another option is to use a fire screen to help contain the ash and embers. Whatever you do, make sure that the fire is completely extinguished before leaving the area, and never let a fire burn unattended.

Wood-burning fire pits produce smoke, which could lead to the blackening of the pergola due to soot accumulation over time. This would be especially noticeable if a white pergola is installed over a wood-burning fire pit.

Ventilation

It is always essential to have proper ventilation around a fire feature. Pergolas are a great option for shelter above a fire pit because of the open-air concept. However, make sure not to use curtains or other pergola privacy features while the fire pit is on. Beyond the fact that improper ventilation can cause an area to quickly fill with smoke, it can also cause heat to become trapped and rise to the beams of the pergola, potentially causing damage such as cracks.

You could also have a ceiling fan installed above the fire pit to help with ventilation. Plus, the cool breeze will come in handy on a hot day.

Pergola Height

Keep in mind that the pergola must be built according to the minimum clearance provided by the fire pit manufacturer or builder. Generally, natural gas fire pits need a minimum clearance of about 120 inches, while a liquid propane fire pit needs a clearance of 94 inches. In addition to determining the proper clearance, your landscape contractor can recommend which type of fire pit would be appropriate for how you plan to use it, as well as what materials should be used to build the pergola and for the flooring around the structure.

Change the Location

You may also want to consider having the fire pit built just outside of the pergola so that while you can enjoy the fire from beneath the pergola, the fire pit itself is not located directly beneath it. This frees up more space for you to have comfortable patio furniture, a comfortable dining area with a table and chairs, or any other features you wish to have near the fire pit.