A fire pit can be a wonderful addition to any backyard. The fire can make for a nice place for people to gather in the yard, and the warmth can offer a way to extend your outdoor activities into the evening when the nights start to get cool. Along with that, a fire pit can also be good for cooking food in the backyard.

A good fire pit will be made from durable materials, and it should be able to stand up to the outdoor conditions and the heat that is produced by the fire. That said, even the best of fire pits will need some maintenance to keep them in good shape.

Cleaning

Cleaning is one of the most important parts of having a fire pit that will operate safely and last a long time. Regular cleanings don’t take a lot of effort, and it will do a lot to protect the fire pit. To start, you want to clean out all of the ashes and debris that builds up in the pit when a fire is burned. Wait about 24 hours after a fire before sweeping out all of the ashes.
If you have a grill that you use with the fire pit, you will also want to keep it clean. Beyond that, you should also clear away things like sticks and leaves that may have fallen near the fire pit. This debris can be a fire risk if any sparks fly from the fire when it is burning.

Cover

Your fire pit is made to withstand the elements, but you can extend its life by keeping it covered when it is not in use. This can protect it from rain, and it can also make it easier to clean. The cover will keep things like leaves and other debris from falling in the pit, and this will mean less cleaning for you.

Bricks

Concrete pavers can make for a durable material to build a fire pit, but some care can help to keep them in good shape. Most pavers provide a good level of heat resistance, but a heat-resistant sealant can help to protect them further and it can also provide additional protection against the elements. When you build the fire pit, it is also a good idea to keep a few extra bricks from the project. After a long enough time, some of the bricks may suffer damage. When the bricks get damaged, you should replace them as soon as possible.

Use the Pit Responsibly

Responsible use is another way to maintain your fire pit. Avoid using accelerants to start fires, and don’t dump water on the fire to put it out. Letting the fire cool down gradually will be better for the materials, and this can help to prevent any damage or deterioration.

If you enjoy nights around the fire in your yard, then it only makes sense to keep your fire pit in good shape. With just a little bit of cleaning and a few additional steps, you can expect a good fire pit to last for many years.