We know how important it is to keep your deck looking nice and new, especially when you have a fire pit.
However, with all the heat from the flames and your feet on the ground, over time your wood can get dry or even crack. To prevent this, we are going to show you ways that will help you build a deck protector under your fire pit!
How Can I Make A Deck Protector Under A Fire Pit?
Is your new fire pit causing damage to the deck? If so, don’t worry! We have 4 ways for you to build a deck protector under your fire pit.
Whether you want something that will stand up on its own or be attached to your current decking material, there are plenty of options available for you!
We Found Some Great Fire Pit Mats and Protectors HERE
- Heat Resistant Tiles
- Landscaping Tiles
- Pavers, Stones, And Bricks
- Cement Board
1. Heat Resistant Tiles
Some tiles can handle high heat and be placed under your fire pit. Tiles made from concrete, clay, ceramic materials, or stone will provide a level of protection against the hot embers that come up off the bottom of the fire pit.
Also, these types of tile are very durable and long-lasting so they won’t require frequent replacement
2. Landscaping Tiles
A great way to protect your wood deck, patio, or porch. These tiles come in various shapes and sizes which are all water-resistant making them fireproof as well!
The tiles are easy to clean with soap, water, and a pressure washer. They can be used on wood decks as well as concrete patios or porches.
Landscaping Tiles come in a variety of colors and different textures, all providing you with the protection your deck needs!
Whether it’s to protect your wood deck from your fire pit or stains by melting snow & ice, acid rain damage, or even wet leaves during autumn time; landscaping tiles are an inexpensive way to make sure that you get more out of your investment over time.
3. Pavers, Stones And Bricks
Pavers, stones, and bricks are the most common options for putting under a fire pit.
If you choose pavers or stone, it’s important to know that they will expand and contract depending on weather conditions – especially heat – so this could damage your deck over time.
This is why we recommend brick as a more reliable option if you want to place your fire pit under an existing wood deck.
4. Cement Board
A cement board is one of the most common materials used for this purpose. It also has a great look, especially if you are trying to match it with another material that will be exposed in your yard or patio area surrounding your fire pit.
Cement Board is very easy to install and relatively inexpensive as well. If cement board isn’t an option, there are other options like pavers or tiles which can be installed right over the top of wood decking without causing damage.
How Do I Protect My Composite Deck Under A Fire Pit?
A fire pit is an awesome addition to any yard, but it can cause some serious damage to composite decking. Composite materials are made of a mixture of wood fibers and plastic resin that simulate the look of natural hardwood lumber.
Despite their beautiful appearance, they do not hold up well under extreme heat without damage or warping.
The main issue with these types of decks is when they catch on fire due to proximity to the fire pit itself or nearby combustible material like straw mulch or dried leaves.
Here’s how you can protect your deck from this type of catastrophe:
Fire Pad
These are made specifically for fire pits to protect the deck.
These mats are typically very thick and can help reduce the damage done by extreme heat.
They come in many different shapes and sizes, some of which may be better suited depending on your specific type of fixture as well as the size of your deck (and more).
Steps To Install A Fire Pad
1. To avoid blowing embers from igniting a fire, place the fire-resistant mat at least several feet away from any railings, walls, or overhangs.
2. Center the fire pit on top of the fire-resistant pad. To ensure that the composite deck is adequately protected from flying sparks, make sure the fire pit is in the middle of the pad.
Any stray embers should be immediately doused to further protect your composite decking.
3. If your fire pit does not have a stand, lift it off the ground. Set it on top of bricks or cinder blocks.
The fire pit should not be placed directly on top of the pad. Heat might cause the composite deck to melt if it is in contact with the pad for an extended period of time.
We Found Some Great Fire Pit Mats and Protectors HERE
What Should You Not Put Under A Fire Pit On A Deck?
First, you should not put anything under a fire pit on deck that is flammable. So, don’t place wood or other materials prone to ignition near the pit itself.
- Do not leave anything flammable around an open flame such as paper goods, clothing etc.
- Avoid using lighter fluid in windy conditions because it’s very easy for that fuel to get blown out the fire pit.
- Do not use flammable liquids to start a fire in any circumstances. They are very dangerous and can cause injury or death if something were ever to go wrong with your lighter fluid, for example spilling it on yourself while lighting the flame causing you to catch alight too!
Fire Pit on a Wood Deck Safety Tips
As we all know, fire can be very dangerous. It is important to take any precautions necessary so you and those around the area are safe from damage done by a possible flame out of control or other mishaps that may arise as a result of not taking proper safety measures.
While building your own fire pit on a wood deck, it is advised to keep this in mind:
- Fire pits must never touch combustible surfaces such as decks, buildings, etc… Keep them at least three feet away from anything flammable. This includes wooden railings!
- You should also have ample access for escape routes should humans need an emergency path to exit quickly without being hindered by flames or hot coals blocking their way out. Stay aware of
- Be sure the fire pit is set up on a durable, level surface. Make sure it’s away from overhanging tree limbs, fences, buildings or any other objects that may be damaged by heat or sparks .
- Keep the surface of the pit free from any combustible materials. The fire pit should be set up on a concrete base, brick or stone surface to ensure that sparks cannot burn through or into a flammable object.
- Be sure to keep a water source nearby in case of an emergency. This is especially important when using lighter fluid for starting fires.
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