Warning About Using Firepits In The Garden

Fire pits have become a popular addition to UK gardens over recent years creating a focal point for outdoor seating areas.

However, for people who lack the space in their garden and want to add a fire pit to their decking area, Jimmy Englezos, Senior Brand Manager from Ronseal has shared a warning as they can potentially cause irreversible damage and even pose a fire risk.

Jimmy explains:
“Fire pits are better suited for use on outdoor patio areas rather than decking, but in scenarios where this cannot be avoided extra precautions should be taken to avoid any costly damages or injury.”

Three tips for fire pit safety:

1. Use a protective surface – Never place a firepit directly on top of decking as this could cause severe damage or even a potential fire. A specially made fire pit mat should always be placed underneath the fire pit as this will withstand the high temperatures generated and protect/shield the surrounding decking.

Alternatively, opt for fire pits that are raised above the ground on legs but make sure these are placed on an even surface.

Another budget-friendly option is to use paving slabs to cover the area below the fire pit to shield the decking underneath. It’s important in this case to make sure the slabs are secure to provide an evenly balanced surface.

2. Use a spark screen – Avoid having an open flame on the fire pit as these can cause embers or sparks to travel and burn nearby items. Whilst these sparks and embers are unlikely to start a fire, unless, in drought conditions, they can scorch the surface of the decking damaging the wooden fibres.

A top tip to help combat this is to gently spray the decking surface with water mist to lightly dampen it. That way if a spark or ember lands on the surface it will become extinguished.

3. Create a clear area – The fire pit should never be beside any walls or hanging structures like roofs or gazebos as these can become damaged by the smoke and heat. Any soft furnishings such as garden rugs or patio sets should be kept at least ten feet away to prevent any accidents.

It’s also a good idea to clear your deck of any debris including dry leaves or twigs as these can become ignited by a rogue spark.

Timber vs. composite decking

Different decking materials each have a different fire rating ranging from A to F, with A being the least flammable and F the most. Most timber decks sit in the D category whereas composite deck is typically rated C or B.

Timber decking is prone to cracking, warping and even combustion when exposed to extreme heat whereas composite decking is designed to better withstand it.

However, whilst composite decking is a better choice for fire pits precautions still must be taken to ensure it does not melt or warp with the heat generated.

Coal-fired vs. gas-fuelled fire pits

Gas fire pits are better suited for decking use since they cannot emit any sparks or embers however, they still generate huge amounts of heat so adequate heat protection must be used to protect the decking from damage.

They also produce a more controlled flame and so can be used in closer proximity to traditional coal-fired fire pits. In both cases, they should never be left unattended whilst lit and any children or pets should be kept away to prevent any potential injuries.

For more information on decking care, please see the Ronseal website: https://www.ronseal.com/how-to-guides/how-to-look-after-decking/