Are you considering adding a fire pit to your backyard, but worried about the potential damage it could cause to your grass? It’s understandable to have concerns, as fire pits can generate heat that can stress and kill your grass.
However, with the right precautions, it’s possible to enjoy a fire pit without harming your lawn. In this article, we’ll explore the question of can you put a fire pit on grass, and provide practical tips for doing so safely.
We’ll cover different types of fire pits, including gas, wood, and portable options, and discuss the pros and cons of each – and different types of grasses, including artificial turf. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how to protect your grass while enjoying the warmth and ambiance of a fire pit in your backyard.
Key Takeaways
- Fire pits on grass can cause damage due to heat radiation.
- Fire pit mats, pavers, and sand or soil can protect the grass from heat damage.
- Safety precautions should always be taken when using a fire pit, including checking surroundings, keeping it on level ground, and never leaving it unattended.
Can You Put a Fire Pit on Grass?
So, can you put a fire pit on grass? Yes, but you need to take precautions to protect your lawn from damage.
Protecting grass is the number one concern when it comes to using a fire pit on grass, regardless of the type of firepit.
Using patio slabs or heat shields are a good option for protecting grass from being scorched. You can also use a fire pit mat, pavers, or sand as a barrier to protect the grass from heat damage.
Soil can also act as a barrier to protect the grass, but it’s not as effective as mats or pavers. If you do burn your grass, our guide to repairing burnt grass can help.
Gas Fire Pits
Using a gas fire pit on your lawn can be a great addition to your outdoor space. Gas fire pits are popular because they’re easy to use, require little maintenance, and produce less smoke than wood-burning fire pits. However, using a gas fire pit on grass requires precautions to ensure safety.
While gas fire pits produce less heat than wood-burning fire pits, they can still cause damage to your grass. To minimize the risk of damage, avoid having the fire pit roaring the whole time and raise the fire pit off the grass with bricks or pavers under the feet.
Wood Fire Pits
Wood fire pits provide a cozy and rustic atmosphere, they also pose a greater risk of damaging your lawn.
To protect your grass from burning, consider using patio slabs or heat shields to create a barrier between the fire and your lawn. Another option is to build a base of sand or soil inside the fire pit, or use a thick layer of rocks, as pictured above.
This will help to insulate the heat and protect your grass from damage. Just be sure to create a thick enough layer of sand or soil to properly protect your lawn.
Artificial Grass
You should never place a fire pit, (gas, portable, or wood) directly onto artificial grass. Even though artificial grass is not flammable, a hot ember or spark can still melt the plastic fibers, causing holes in your turf.
Instead, use a fire pit mat, or create a patio area from non-flammable materials such as pavers, gravel, or stones.
How to Protect Your Grass When Using a Firepit
If you don’t want to build a designated fire pit area, or a patio, there are some other options to help protect your lawn. They are either a fireproof mat, or a more of a structure to sit your firepit on. Of course, you can always use both for extra protection for your grass.
I’ve listed two great recommendations below. For more ideas, check out my article on what to put under a fire pit on grass.
5 Layers Double Sided Firepit Mat
This Double Sided Firepit Mat is a durable and stylish solution for protecting your grass from the heat and flames of your fire pit. It’s made from a combination of silicone and fiberglass, and is designed to withstand temperatures up to 1100°F.
The mat’s reversible 2-in-1 design means you can use it with either the black or brown side facing up, depending on your preference. Plus, its size of 36 x 48 inches means it will fit most gas and portable firepits, with a little room to spare around the outside.
Not only does the Layers Double Sided Firepit Mat provide protection for your lawn, patio, or deck, but it also saves you money in the long run. By preventing damage to your grass or deck, you won’t have to spend money replacing wood or repairing any fire damage. Additionally, the mat’s anti-skid surface and flat design eliminate tripping hazards for added safety. And with its stylish look, it can even pass for a nice-looking rug!
Product Specs:
- Material: Silicone and fiberglass
- Fireproof: Withstands up to 1100°F
- Reversible 2-in-1 Design: Black and brown side
- Size: 36 x 48 inches
- Fits Most Grills & Smokers: Leave some room along the perimeter
Pros:
- Durable and flame retardant
- Stylish design
- Anti-skid surface and lie-flat for added safety
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- May not fit larger grills or smokers
- May be more expensive than other fire pit mats on the market
- Rectangle design isn’t preferable for round fire pits
Aluminum Deck Defender and Grass Guard
Protect your outdoor surfaces with the stylish and durable Aluminum Deck Defender. This heat shield reflects and insulates against extreme temperatures from gas and wood-burning fire pits and chimineas. The Deck Defender has a 2-piece construction with an aluminum top plate and lower steel sub-frame that work together to block heat. The powder-coated frame includes wide feet for lawn applications, making it a versatile addition to any outdoor space.
The lightweight Deck Defender requires no assembly and is easy to use. Simply place it under your fire pit or chiminea and burn as usual. Tested to extreme conditions, the Deck Defender is 100% fire-proof and can withstand temperatures up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit. It also has a weight capacity of 350 lbs and is outdoor storage safe, sitting above the surface to prevent moisture from accumulating.
Product Specs:
- Size: 26 L x 26 W or 36 corner to corner
- Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
- 100% fire-proof all-metal construction
- 2-year limited warranty
Pros:
- Protects surfaces directly under fire pits from heat damage
- Sits above the lawn to allow airflow underneath
- Handcrafted with quality USA materials for longevity and appearance
Cons:
- Not suitable for use with oxygen-supplied fires
- Not big enough for larger fire pits
Risks With Putting a Fire Pit on Grass
If you’re considering putting a fire pit on your lawn, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks involved. Here are the two most common problems:
Heat Stress to the Grass
To avoid damaging your grass, you’ll want to be mindful of heat stress caused by the fire pit. Heat stress occurs when the grass is exposed to excessive heat. In short, the heat kills the grass.
The only way to prevent heat stress and dead grass is to put something under the firepit to protect it from the extreme heat. This can be patio slabs, brick pavers, heat shields, or fire-resistant mats. If you have a Solo Stove and want to use it on grass, make sure you use the stand under it.
You can try wetting the grass before lighting the fire pit, but I didn’t have a lot of success with this. The heat of the fire quickly dries out the grass and it still dies!
Safety Tips for Enjoying Your Fire Pit on Grass
Fire pit safety precautions are also essential when using a fire pit on grass. Here are some tips:
- Before lighting the fire, check the surrounding area for loose branches, debris, and leaf piles.
- Keep the fire pit on level ground to avoid tipping over
- Never leave a fire pit unattended
- Extinguish the fire before going to bed
- Supervise children and pets when using a fire pit
- Have water handy, and a fire extinguisher in case of an emergency
- Keep it at least 20-25 feet away from structures, and 10-15 feet away from tree branches
- Avoid using lighter fluid or other fuels to start the fire. Opt for fire starter, twigs, wood shavings, or newspaper
- Use a screen over the top of the fire pit to prevent sparks flying and landing on grass
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’re now equipped with the knowledge to protect your grass when using a fire pit.
Remember to always choose a safe location for your fire pit. If you have artificial grass, be sure to use a non-combustible base underneath your fire pit.
When using a gas fire pit, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and keep the area around the fire pit clear of flammable materials.
If you’re using a portable fire pit, take extra care to choose a level location and use a screen to prevent sparks from flying out. And finally, if you’re using a wood fire pit, be sure to use seasoned firewood and never leave the fire unattended.
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire pit without damaging your grass.
If you prefer not to put a fire pit on grass, consider alternative options such as a patio or gravel area. Make sure to check your local fire codes and regulations before setting up your fire pit.
Stay safe and have fun!