A fire pit can add a finishing touch to any outdoor kitchen or backyard patio, and selecting the right fire pit bowl can offer versatility and years of enjoyment. Deciding what the family would like to use the fire pit for is a crucial step in selecting the right bowl. Taking weather and annual wear and tear into account will also help select the most appropriate fire pit bowl for any backyard.
Fire pit bowls are available in a number of sizes, and selecting the right size for the available space is important. For larger areas, a bowl with a larger spread can fill a space that might make other bowls seem insignificant. A smaller fire pit bowl can be plenty for a small patio or for the center of a small gathering of chairs.
Determining what the fire pit is going to be used for can also help narrow down choices. If the fire bowl is going to be used for cooking, there are a number that come with grills fitted specially to the top. Selecting a deeper bowl will make grilling larger pieces of meat easier, as the heat coming up from the coals will cook the meat rather than the fire itself. Some fire pit bowls come with lids, which can also be helpful when cooking over the fire. If the intention is only to cook small pieces of meat or vegetables, a more shallow bowl can be more than adequate.
Durability is another factor to consider when buying a fire pit bowl. Thicker, heavier steel can withstand the elements better than a more lightweight model. Fire pits that will be left outside should be made of a heavier material, such as a heavy steel. Those under a shelter or bowls that will be taken inside when not in use can be made of a lighter material, such as clay or a more lightweight steel. Choosing a fire pit bowl that has some kind of handle or edge can make emptying and cleaning it much easier.
Fire pit bowls come in a variety of shapes, colors, and designs. Choosing the best one can also include finding one that fits the decor of the area where it is going to be placed. The color of the fire pit bowl can be selected to complement patio stone or furniture. Some bowls have designs cut out of the sides, and these can also be selected to match outdoor decor. Designs cut all the way through the bowl and not lined with steel mesh can spill ashes or chunks of wood onto the patio and should be avoided.