Fire Pit vs. Outdoor Fireplace: Which Feature to Add in Addition to Your Paver Patio in the Shawnee, KS Area

If you’re having a paver patio built at your home in the Shawnee, KS area, you may be trying to decide whether you would prefer a fire pit or an outdoor fireplace included in your backyard space. There are benefits to each of these fire features, and we’ll compare the two in this article to help you make a decision.

Fire Pits

Fire pits are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern look of a square or rectangle-shaped fire pit, or the traditional style of a circular fire pit, a professional landscape contractor can build the perfect fire pit for you.

These features can be built using a variety of materials, including masonry block and natural stone. Speak with your landscape contractor to see a portfolio of fire pits that they have built in the past. This will help you decide which style and materials you like best.

You can choose whether you want a wood-burning fire pit or a gas-powered fire pit. With a wood-burning fire pit, you can enjoy the crackling sound of the burning wood and the associated aroma that fills the air. You’ll get campfire vibes from a wood-burning fire pit. 

A gas-fueled fire pit can be conveniently powered on or off with the flip of a switch. Gas fire pits do not create smoke, so they are a great option if you have anyone in the family with breathing concerns. You can also enjoy the decorative element of being able to select a filler, such as glass beads or smooth lava stones.

Fire pits offer an entertainment benefit in that you can roast marshmallows over the fire to make smores or roast hotdogs for a delicious meal. Gather around to share ghost stories on Halloween night for even more fun.

Outdoor Fireplaces

Outdoor fireplaces can help create vertical interest in your outdoor space. Wood-burning outdoor fireplaces must have a chimney to help direct the smoke up and away from the outdoor area, while gas-fueled outdoor fireplaces do not produce smoke and will not require a chimney.

These features can be built using masonry blocks, natural stone, or even stone veneer. They can have an impressive design and style that adds rustic elegance to your outdoor space. Consider including built-in storage areas within the design where you can always have firewood handy. 

Many homeowners include a built-in outdoor pizza oven where they can make homemade pizzas with the delicious flavor produced by a wood-burning oven. No matter what options you choose, you’ll surely enjoy the warmth and glow of the fire on a chilly evening.

Which Should You Choose?

Whether you choose a fire pit or an outdoor fireplace depends upon how you plan to use your outdoor space. You may want to consider the needs of your family and friends to determine the best option. If you simply cannot choose between the two, go with both! Having a fire pit area on one side of your backyard and an outdoor fireplace on the other is always an excellent option that meets the needs of everyone.