Choosing Between an Outdoor Fireplace and a Fire Pit

A fire pit and an outdoor fireplace serve the same purpose of bringing warmth and light to an outdoor space. However, while they are both great options, they also come with their own distinct advantages when it comes to working with the landscaping in your yard.

Outdoor Fireplace Versus a Fire Pit

The difference between an outdoor fireplace and a fire pit comes down to primarily one thing – size. A fire pit is often just that – a pit. It will have edged low walls around it to contain fire, but it will primarily be low down to the ground.

A fireplace, on the other hand, can come in a number of shapes and sizes, but all of them have a certain height to them. It is this key difference that needs to be kept in mind when choosing between the two.

Factors to Consider

If you want a fire element in your backyard landscaping, both an outdoor fireplace and a fire pit will fill the role and provide an inviting centerpiece of any patio. However, when choosing between them, keep the following in mind:

How is the View in Your Yard?

Not all yards are privileged to have an amazing view, but the ones that do probably don’t want it obstructed. An outdoor fireplace, as a higher structure, may interfere will beautiful outdoor views, though strategic placing can help to accent them as well. A fire pit, on the other hand, won’t obscure much and as such you are afforded more flexibility on where you can place it.

Do You Require More Privacy?

Fences and other landscaping options are often more sought after for backyard privacy, but because outdoor fireplaces are often quite tall, they can be an excellent barrier to increase intimacy and privacy to a space. Furthermore, outdoor fireplaces can also provide excellent windbreaks in some circumstances.

What is the Architectural Style of Your Home?

The myriad of designs available for both outdoor fireplaces and fire pits can match a number of different architectural styles, but sometimes they just won’t line up with certain types of homes and patios. A large barrier like a outdoor fireplace may take away from other elements of your home and end up clashing with exterior.

Picking What is Right For You

Ultimately what the decision comes down to is your personal preference. However, if you are having trouble envisioning what is right for your property, we can help. Contact us today to see what options Texas Landscapes has available for your outdoor space.