A fire pit is an excellent way to enhance your backyard’s ambiance and create a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy memories with your family and friends. However, it is important to properly place your fire pit in a safe location away from any overhangs, including your awning. While it may seem like a good idea to place your fire pit under a covering for more warmth, doing so can be dangerous and counterproductive. Mesa Awning walks you through all the reasons you shouldn’t have a fire pit under an awning and some of the alternatives you can consider.

It’s a Fire Hazard

The primary reason why you shouldn’t have a fire pit under an awning is that it poses a fire hazard. If your awning is made of fabric, it can easily catch fire due to the heat and embers generated by the fire pit. Moreover, the flames can quickly spread to nearby structures or plants, especially in the dry spring and summer days here in Arizona. This not only leads to significant property damage but creates life-threatening situations as well. To avoid these dangers, it’s best to keep your fire pit at least 10 feet away from any combustible materials, including your awning.

It Creates Smoke Damage

Another issue with having a fire pit under an awning is potential smoke damage. Smoke can easily accumulate under a covered area, causing damage to the ceiling, furniture, and other materials inside the covered space. Smoke can also pose a health risk to you and your guests, especially if you have respiratory problems like asthma. In addition, the smoke can cause your awning to discolor and become unsightly. So, to maintain the beauty and functionality of your awning, it’s best to keep your fire pit away from it.

It Causes Aesthetic Damage

A fire pit can also damage your awning in several other ways. The heat generated by the fire can cause the fabric to warp, melt, or shrink, leading to unsightly and costly repairs. The ash and embers can also discolor or stain the awning fabric, reducing its aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, if the fire pit is placed too close to the awning, the heat can cause the metal frame to corrode, weaken, or bend. Overall, placing a fire pit under an awning can result in costly and avoidable repairs.

Some Alternatives to Consider

If you have a fire pit and you’re concerned about having it under an awning, you can consider other alternatives. For instance, you can place your fire pit on a non-combustible base, such as bricks, pavers, or concrete, in a designated area of your backyard. This keeps your fire pit away from your awning and your home, reducing the risk of fire and preventing smoke damage.

If your desire for a fire pit is to use it for warmth when the sun goes down, consider other heating alternatives, such as a tabletop gas fire pit or a heating lamp that will keep your entire patio warm.

Build the Backyard of Your Dreams

Having a fire pit in your backyard is an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors and create lasting memories with your loved ones. However, it’s important to place your fire pit in a safe location, away from any combustible materials, including your awning. With the help of Mesa Awning, you can create a stunning and enjoyable backyard. We put up awnings, pergolas, and carports all around Mesa, AZ. So, get your free quote today by calling your friends at Mesa Awning at (480) 969-4064, and start building the backyard of your dreams.