Having a gathering spot in your yard to congregate with family and friends in the evening is ideal. A fire pit provides warmth and a convenient, relaxing location after a long day. It is the perfect addition to any backyard, but choosing the right type for your home should not be a quick decision.
Many types of fire pits are available, but the choice comes down to a custom outdoor fire pit or a prefabricated one. There are pros and cons to both. You have to find which one fits your lifestyle and budget!
What You Can Expect to Spend
When it comes to the question of what one would expect to spend on a fire pit, the price of a DIY kit from your local big box store can range anywhere from under $100 to around $500. There are some more expensive prefabricated models out there. The high-end prefabricated models can run homeowners anywhere from $1,000-$4,000. Kits can be found at a store or shipped right to your home.
Custom fire pits are more of an investment. They usually start at around $5,000 for the design and installation process and increase in price. This price reflects the time, labor, and design efforts put into the custom piece. In addition, custom fire pits can use various materials and have options such as built-in seating, retaining walls, and other features that make them a focal point for your backyard.
Conclusion: Budget buyers should go for prefabricated kits. Homeowners looking to add an exterior focal point to their space should look into a custom fire pit.
The Level of Quality Between Prefabricated & Custom Outdoor Fire Pits
A prefabricated model will cost less because the quality is much lower than a custom-built fire pit option. Most prefabricated models need to be replaced every few years due to weathering and lower-end materials. Most kits have stones or pavers, a steel ring frame, and lava rocks. The parts in these kits can fall apart, break, or rust over time.
Custom fire pits are built to last. They are permanent structures that take a more significant investment upfront but result in a well-built, higher-quality structure that will endure weathering and high use. However, the true value is in both the structure and the memories you will surely make around it.
Conclusion: You get what you pay for! If you want true quality and plan to stay in your home for a long time, consider the investment in a custom-built fire pit.
A Comparison of the Installation Process
Installing a prefabricated model is as easy as 1-2-3. You can go to the store, spend a little bit of cash, and have your new fire pit built within a few hours. One or two people can install it, and it needs no further instructions than what the kit provides.
This option is perfect for families who want a quick change in their yards and are ready for a fire that night! It needs no planning or budgeting to make it happen and saves on the installation cost.
Custom fire pits take longer to achieve, resulting in a beautiful hardscaping element. First, homeowners need to work with a local landscaping company, like Master’s Landscape Design, to determine exactly what they want in a fire pit. Once the design is settled, installation time needs to be scheduled, and a few days must be set aside to complete the project.
Both prefabricated and custom fire pits need to follow local municipality codes regarding the placement of the structure. Any fire element should be placed on a non-flammable surface at least 10 feet from the home or any other flammable structure.
Conclusion: Installing a DIY kit is much quicker and easier. Professionals are necessary to install a custom fire pit, but you do not have to lift a finger in the process.
Get a Custom Fire Pit Consultation
There is no right or wrong choice when adding a fire pit to your property! Both options will achieve an outdoor feature for your friends and family to enjoy. Homeowners should consider budget, structure, and lifestyle before making a decision.
If you are ready for a custom fire pit, contact a professional landscaping company, like Master’s Landscape Design, to make it happen. You can start the process by calling us at (615) 288-2052 and scheduling a free consultation!