Gas vs. Wood-Burning Fire Pits Which One is Right for You?

When designing your perfect outdoor space, a fire pit can be the centerpiece that adds both beauty and warmth. As you explore different options, you'll find two main types of fire pits to choose from: gas fire pit tables and wood burning fire pits. Each offers a unique experience for your outdoor gatherings, so how do you know which one is right for you?

In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between a gas fire pit table and a wood burning fire pit round, and how to decide between the two. From ease of use to ambiance, let’s explore what makes each option stand out.

Understanding Gas Fire Pit Tables

A gas fire pit table is powered by either natural gas or propane, offering a modern and convenient alternative to traditional wood-burning options. These fire pits have a sleek, tabletop design and are often made from materials like stone, concrete, or metal.

Pros of a Gas Fire Pit Table:

1. Convenience

A major advantage of a gas fire pit table is its ease of use. With a simple push of a button or turn of a dial, the flame ignites. You won’t need to gather outdoor pit fire wood or deal with the mess of kindling. This makes it ideal for people who prefer quick setup and minimal effort when it comes to starting the fire.

2. Control

Gas fire pits allow you to control the size of the flame with precision, adjusting it to the ideal level for your needs. Whether you want a small, cozy glow or a larger blaze, the flame intensity can be fine-tuned easily. Plus, there's no need to worry about constant monitoring as with wood-burning fires.

3. Clean Burning

Since a gas fire pit table doesn't rely on wood burning fire pit round, you won't need to worry about smoke, ash, or debris. This is especially beneficial if you have sensitive neighbors or want a cleaner experience in your outdoor space.

4. Extended Use

With a gas fire pit table, you can enjoy your fire pit during different seasons. There’s no need to wait for dry weather or struggle with wet wood. Simply turn on the gas, and you’re ready to go.

Cons of a Gas Fire Pit Table:

1. Less Authenticity

Some people argue that gas fire pits lack the authentic, rustic feel that comes with burning real wood. The sound of crackling logs and the smoky aroma are part of the traditional fire experience, which is missing in a gas fire pit table.

2. Dependency on Gas

A gas fire pit table requires a constant supply of propane or natural gas. This means you’ll need to keep an eye on gas levels and ensure that you have a refill or connection to a natural gas line, depending on the model.

3. Higher Initial Cost

While gas fire pit tables offer a lot of convenience, they tend to be more expensive upfront compared to large wood fire pits. Additionally, the ongoing cost of refilling propane tanks may add up over time.

Understanding Wood-Burning Fire Pits

A wood burning fire pit round (or any other wood-burning model) is the more traditional type of fire pit, using outdoor pit fire wood to fuel the fire. It provides a classic fire experience and has a rustic charm that many homeowners love.

Pros of a Wood-Burning Fire Pit:

Authentic Fire Experience

For many people, the experience of a wood-burning fire pit is unmatched. The sound of the crackling logs, the smoky aroma, and the heat that comes from the fire give it a unique ambiance that is perfect for outdoor gatherings. If you enjoy the ritual of gathering firewood and tending the flames, this is the way to go.

No Need for Gas

Unlike gas fire pit tables, which require a steady supply of propane or natural gas, wood burning fire pit round models rely on outdoor pit fire wood. This means you can use firewood you already have, especially if you have a source for wood on your property. There's no need to worry about gas supply interruptions or refills.

Lower Initial Cost

Generally, wood burning fire pit round options come at a lower upfront cost compared to gas fire pit tables. If you're on a budget, this might be an appealing feature. Plus, the ongoing cost of firewood is often less expensive than buying propane for a gas fire pit.

Customization

With a wood burning fire pit round, you can customize the fire pit experience. You can choose the type of wood to burn, experiment with different wood blends, and even cook on your fire pit with a grill attachment.

Cons of a Wood-Burning Fire Pit:

Maintenance and Clean-Up

One of the main drawbacks of wood burning fire pit round models is the mess. After each use, you’ll need to clean out the ashes and remnants of the firewood. Additionally, wood can be dirty, and there’s the risk of debris blowing around your yard.

Smoke and Ash

Wood-burning fires produce smoke, which can be bothersome, especially if the wind blows it into your face or if you have guests with respiratory issues. The smoke and ash are part of the experience, but they can also make the area smell smoky and dirty.

Wood Supply

Keeping a steady supply of outdoor pit fire wood can be challenging, especially during wet seasons when wood becomes difficult to store or keep dry. You'll need to plan ahead to ensure you have enough firewood for all your outdoor gatherings.

Which One Should You Choose?

The decision between a gas fire pit table and a wood burning fire pit round depends on your preferences, lifestyle, and outdoor space. Here are a few things to consider when making your decision:

1. Ease of Use vs. Authentic Experience

If you’re looking for ease of use, quick setup, and minimal maintenance, a gas fire pit table is your best bet. On the other hand, if you value the authentic experience of a crackling wood fire, then a wood burning fire pit round is ideal.

2. Budget

If you're on a tighter budget, a wood burning fire pit round is a more affordable choice in terms of both the initial cost and the ongoing fuel cost. However, if you're willing to invest in convenience and a cleaner burning option, a gas fire pit table might be worth the extra cost.

3. Space and Design

For smaller backyards or patios, a table top fire pit or gas fire pit table might be the best option as they are compact and can double as functional outdoor furniture. For larger spaces, a large wood fire pit or wood burning fire pit round can serve as the centerpiece of your outdoor gathering area.

4. Maintenance

If you prefer a low-maintenance setup, the gas fire pit table offers convenience with easy ignition and minimal clean-up. For those who enjoy tending to a fire and don’t mind the extra cleaning, a wood burning fire pit round can provide a more hands-on experience.

Conclusion

Both gas fire pit tables and wood burning fire pits have their own unique advantages, and choosing between the two depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you choose a gas fire pit table for easy operation and clean-burning or a wood burning fire pit round for a classic, rustic outdoor experience, each option will bring warmth, ambiance, and enjoyment to your backyard.

Consider your budget, outdoor space, and maintenance preferences when making your decision, and choose the fire pit that will best complement your lifestyle and enhance your outdoor living experience.