Will a portable fire pit damage concrete is one of the most common questions we get here at Delta. There are some specific steps you can take in order to ensure you and your family are safe. One of the best recommendations we give is to never use a fire pit within 20 feet of your home. In addition, it is also very wise to invest in a quality fire pit mat. Why? Fire pits create up to 1400 degrees F. So, you have to ensure your patio or wood deck is not damaged by the heat fire pits create.

We also recommend using gas powered pits. That being said, we all are different. There is nothing like the outdoors feel of a wood burning fire pit. These definitely are the what fire pits are all about. The problem is they create much more of a mess to clean up after each use.

Are Fire Pits Worth It?

Of course. There are cheaper fire pits under $300 and expensive fire pits. It all depends on what you are looking for. The old saying that “you get what you pay for” can, in many ways, be very true. Are you looking for a simple fire pit that isn't going to break your bank account?

Well, you may want something far more mobile and lighter. Are you more focused on style and long-term use? You may want to invest in a higher priced gas powered fire pit. There are numerous options in the market place to choose from.

So, will a portable fire pit damage concrete? Yes and no is the answer. They certainly can if you are not taking proper precautions.

Does A Fire Pit Need To Be Permanent?

No. There are numerous metal fire pits that are not only light but highly portable. They are simple to use but the drawback is most are not rust proof. You certainly want to invest in a rust proof fire pit. The most important thing to remember is to operate your fire pit away from your home or property. Concrete is much more fire resistant as compared with a wooden deck.

In addition, fire pits that are build from pavers or stones are also good examples of permanent fire pits.

Is A Fire Pit On Concrete Safer?

Yes. It is very easy to start a fire on a wooden deck or patio. In addition, a fire pit mat is one of the best investments you can make when it comes to fire pit use. It ensures the surface you are operating your fire pit on is not damaged. For examples, grass and wood are two surfaces that can easily catch on fire.

So, you have to watch how close to your home you are operating your fire pit. One of the best things you can do is to place your fire pit on concrete. The main reason for this is obvious. It is the safest of all the surfaces and can withstand the heat as compared with wood, grass or your patio. That being said, this is not to say that concrete cannot be damaged because it can. Again, a quality fire pit mat is a wise investment on your part.

Focus on A Strong, Solid Foundation For Your Fire Pit

The best place to put a fire pit is on a concrete slab. Of course, concrete is not damage proof. That being said, it is the best surface of the choices we have mentioned for fire pit use. High heat will damage all surfaces regardless if they are concrete or not. The good news is concrete will not catch on fire like grass or wood. So, the best option is to always go with concrete.

What Are The Top Alternatives of Using A Fire Pit on Concrete?

The best option is to invest in a fire pit with legs. You can also find many that are pre-fabricated. These fire pits can be placed on concrete but will lessen the chance of your concrete being damaged. Again, the last thing we want is a fire to start, your property or family being affected.

A stone or paver fire pit is a great alternative. This is the best method moving forward. Why? You can place your fire pit on a concrete slab with no concern of your concrete being damaged. The goal is to have a good time with loved ones and guests, not to be concerned about a fire. Again, always keep safety in the back of your mind. Fire pits can be a lot of fun but they also come with risks. So, if you follow the above mentioned tips you will be set up for success.

There are great fire pits for cooking marshmellows or lower cost options. The last piece of advice I want to share it to always consult with a concrete professional. These experts know what are the best options you have when it comes to operating your fire pit.

Closing Thoughts

So, we have discussed why concrete is your best option when it comes to fire pit use. We have also written about wooden deck use as well. The bottom line up front is to always keep your fire pit at least 20 feet away from your home. It is very easy for wood-burning fire pits to have wild embers or flames that can cause damage.

So, will a portable fire pit damage concrete? It can but if you take precautions mentioned in this post you don't have to worry about it.

If you are not concerned about the clean up process then a quality wood-burning fire pit may be an option. Gas powered fire pits and electric fireplaces are much less easy to use. In addition, no clean up after use. Safety is always the most important component of fire pit use. There are numerous options to choose from on and offline.

Electric fireplaces can be extremely suitable for indoor use or within a covered patio. The good news is there are wood-burning, gas-powered and electric fire pit options to choose from. It all depends on what you are looking for. If you don't have a budget go with style and long-term use. If you want something cheaper you can find fire pits as low as $50.

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