Can you put a fire pit on a wood deck without burning down the house? Won’t the combustible materials that make up your deck and the sparks from a wood-burning fire pit create a bad situation? Read on to see what the leading outdoor deck carpenter in Emerald Isle, NC has to say about fire pit safety and proper planning.
Check City Codes
Before shopping for your new fire pit, our experts advise checking the city or town’s fire codes. Some areas implement strict safety laws dictating fire pits and their locations. Make certain you know the local laws that apply to your property before decorating this outdoor space.
Some areas allow gas pits in certain conditions or accept a wood fire pit if safety requirements are in place. These laws are particularly important in drier climates or areas prone to wildfires. It is also a great idea to check your housing ordinances for local fire safety laws—HOAs often require stricter codes on outdoor activity as per the HOA restrictions.
Protect Your Deck
Do the local laws put you in the clear for a fire pit on the deck? Legal requirements may not be enough to answer the burning question, “Can you put a fire pit on a wood deck safely?” If you love spending time on your deck, risking repairs or replacements may not seem worth it.
Repairing or replacing a deck can cost more than expected. A runaway fire will also threaten your house and family should this scenario arise. Luckily, there are several fire safety measures you can implement to ensure your home remains intact.
Stone Pavers
Solid stone pavers could mitigate damage by preventing too much heat from radiating through your wooden deck. Most pavers extend beyond the size of the pit, effectively eliminating the risk of sparks or ash landing on the wooden surface.
Width and Height Clearance
Protect the railing, awning, or other flammable materials by ensuring any fire pit is a safe distance away. Each pit will require a specific amount of space depending on its
size, heat capabilities, and other factors. Be sure to read the manual before purchasing a pit to measure whether the deck has enough room to incorporate it safely.
Other Safety Accessories
Did you know that safety accessories could remove any potential danger to your property? The following might be worth a try:
- · Flame or wind guards
- · Fire extinguishers
- · Spark guard screens
These accessories in close range should promote a safer, more relaxed environment for you to enjoy.
Consider the Deck Material
Certain materials may work better for fire pits on decks. For example, professionals consider recycled materials in composite decks as combustible as wooden decks. Concrete decks do far better with a fire pit, whereas vinyl will melt, crack, or break under extreme heat.
With the correct safety requirements and proper information, you can safely use a pit on your deck. Can you put a fire pit on a wood deck without risking your property? Call Eastern Atlantic Carpentry at (252) 262-6600 to find out more in Emerald Isle, NC.
