The once humble Australian backyard used to consist of a grassy patch, an entertaining area, and a swimming pool if you were lucky. These days, a backyard is an extension of the home and features multiple impressive elements that are perfect for entertaining and spending time with family and friends. A fit pit is one of them. Here we’ll explain why adding a fire pit to your pool area is a great idea.
Have a plan
A fire pit that has been planned well and integrated into the pool area will greatly add to the appeal of your backyard. When it’s inviting, you’ll be more inclined to use it often. Measure out the space, draw up a draft, consider the materials you’ll use, and don’t rush your decision without careful thought. If you have no building experience, it’s best to hire a professional, that way you’ll know it’s been installed correctly, and it is not going to be unsafe. If you decide to buy a portable fire pit, choose one that compliments your pool area and make sure the seating you choose is comfortable and looks good.
Before you build your fire pit, you must
Check with your local council to see if you need a permit to build your fire pit before you commence construction. If you build it without one, you risk receiving a fine for unauthorized building work. The other thing to consider before installing your fire pit is its placement. Your fire must not encroach any of your pool fencing boundary lines otherwise your pool may be deemed non-compliant, and you might have to move your pool fence or firepit. Either way, it’s a situation you want to avoid from the get-go.
Why should you consider a fire pit for your pool area?
Extend your outdoor time
When we have friends and family over, we usually catch up outside having a BBQ or swim, but when the weather cools down, you may be tempted to head inside where it is warmer. Having a fire pit ready to go can extend your day into the evening as sitting around the fire will keep you nice and toasty.
Great way to Socialise
Sitting around a fire pit with a drink in one hand and a marshmallow on a stick in the other, does it get any better? This is the perfect social setting for unwinding with friends which can promote relaxation and boost mood.
Can add value to your home
A permanent fire pit and seating that ties in and works well in the space can add significant value to your home. It adds a design element to your pool area and can make it look luxurious.
Make your pool area multi-functional
Having multiple points of interest in your backyard is a sure-fire way to get your family outside. While a swimming pool on its own is a fantastic backyard addition, the truth is you won’t use it every single day, so it’s important to consider other components that you can enjoy while outdoors. A fire pit is an ideal way to do this.
Give your pool area the wow factor
Not many other things could top a built-in fire pit and seating in the pool area and, it’s guaranteed to be a talking point at your place. Fire pits are the new must-have backyard accessory, and many homes now feature them.
Some things to consider when placing a fire pit in your pool area
Safety
There’s no denying that fire can be dangerous and your number one priority when choosing a fire pit for your pool area should be how safe it is. It needs to be strong and sturdy, and if it’s not being built-in, the area where it sits needs to be fire-resistant. Children should never be left unsupervised while around the fire, and they should be denied access into the pool area after the fire pit has been on as they can remain hot for some time after.
Whether you want wood or gas
Several different burning fuels can be used in a fire pit. The most popular two are wood and gas. Do you need to ask yourself if you want an old-school-style fire pit with burning wood logs? Or would you rather have something you can turn on and off instantly? Unless you have your heart set on a wood fire pit, gas is usually better in terms of convenience. You can get your fire going instantly, and it doesn’t get as hot which can make it safer. Ultimately, it’s up to you and how much you want to spend on a fire pit.
The size and the seating
How much room you have to work with can determine how big your fire pit area can be. Just remember it should complement the space, not engulf it. You should establish how many people will be using the fire pit at any one given time and ensure you have enough seating to suit. You’ll also need to consider the placement of the seating, its width, and height. Your seating should be comfortable so you can enjoy it for extended periods if you wish.
Its location
You should think about where your fire pit will go carefully, especially if you are having it built-in. Because once it’s installed, it can be expensive and time-consuming to fix. Ensure the space is well ventilated, away from children’s play areas, and out of reach for children.
Make sure you can light your fire pit
In Queensland, there are rules around lighting your fire pit, and they vary from region to region. You can use your outdoor fire pit if there are no current local fire bans issued, and your fire pit mustn’t negatively impact neighbours through odour or smoke. Under no circumstances can you light a fire when there is a declared fire emergency or fire ban. You can find more information here on the Brisbane Government website – https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/clean-and-green/natural-environment-and-water/air-quality/brazier-and-fire-pit-use
Here at The Fibreglass Pool Company, we know first-hand how amazing fire pits can look in a pool area. With some careful planning and a stunning swimming pool, you can create a showstopping feature at your place. Contact our friendly team today for more information.
