Patio Fire Pits
Warm Up Your Summer Nights

There's something about fire. It captivates. Doesn't matter if you're 8 or 80. Today there are many ways that you can bring it into your yard. And, oh, it's come a long way...

Today's patio fire pits give you the perfect spot to spend the last of the summer evenings. The neighbors come over and toast a few marshmallows after the high school basketball game. You and that special someone take a bottle of wine out there after dinner.

It's no wonder that they're tops on many people's lists of outdoor additions. In Wisconsin, the outdoor times are extended into fall if you've got a way to heat your outdoor space.

Fire Pits

The above-ground patio fire pit is both attractive and low-maintenance. It can be made from a variety of materials to match any decor.

The style that we use the most is made of concrete block. This block is just as tough as the retaining wall blocks that we use. It also comes in many natural colors. About three feet across, these patio fire pits are just the right size for warming fingers and toes.

The in-ground patio fire pit is a low-profile way to enjoy a fire. Tucked down into your patio, special ventilation is built in to make sure it functions well.

Fire Pit Stands

An easy way to get a fire that not only looks good and is mobile -- metal fire pit stands. There are a huge variety of styles for this one. Fire rings can also be bought rather inexpensively and don't require a lot of prep at your site.

Although many people opt for the simplicity of the above ground fire pit, more people are building higher than before. Fire pit tables let you to have a small fire at table height. Installed with a gas insert, you won't even have to chop wood for this high-style feature.

One of my new favorites is the chimenea. I fell in love with these when Jan Paul and I were eating at a local restaurant. They invited us to eat out on their patio. The enchanting spot had rustic, red brick walls and wrought iron. Off to one side was a little chimenea -- and, boy, was it putting out a lot of heat! Potentially a chilly spot, the chimenea was the perfect solution. Needless to say, I was hooked.

Outdoor Fireplaces

Fireplaces -- yes, really. Fireplaces bring the 'wow' outdoors. So much of today's landscaping is about creating that outdoor space that is just as relaxing, just as convenient and nice as the indoors. If you want your outdoor space to feel like a room -- you really should consider this.

Consider topping off that outdoor room feel with a large, rustic pergola and a brick paver patio beneath. A few shrubs, trellis and vine for privacy and a few twinkling lights overhead. Dine alfresco or just relax on the cushions of a large teak couch.

I hope I've given you more than a few ideas to warm up your summer nights. Now your only problem will be choosing one!