Decking and Portable Fire Pits

Thinking about adding a portable fire pit to your composite Utah decking? If you are, you certainly are not alone. Portable fire pits in Utah have skyrocketed in popularity. Yet, they can also pose a danger, especially on your deck. Utah customers especially, should be aware of the especially dry summer conditions and that any kind of fire pit has the potential to emanate sparks. When this happens, your new fire pit can become a possible fire hazard. We’ve included a few steps that can be taken to ensure that your deck (and home) doesn’t become a fire casualty. First, make sure that your new portable fire pit has a fire preventing accessory. Portable fire pits usually come with wire mesh on top that can act as a spark resistor. These spark resistors do exactly what their namesake suggests: while allowing smoke to pass through the top, they stop most sparks from exiting the wire mesh. Having a sensible, function spark resistor on your portable fire pit is one of the smartest way to ensure that your fire remains inside the portable fire pit, rather than outside on your new deck. Utah deck owners are often aware that another great accessory that you should purchase along with the portable fire pit itself is a fire resistant pad. This tool is usually placed directly underneath or around a portable fire pit and is designed to catch most sparks that might inadvertently exit the wire mesh. Next, make sure that you always have a fire extinguisher or hose handy. Even thought this might seem to be common sense, we are constantly surprised when homeowners do not have one nearby. When enjoying a fire from a portable fire pit, always be ready for any scenario in which the fire could possibly escape its enclosure. Another thing that should always be considered is the type of Utah decking that your deck is comprised of. Some are more flammable than others, and possibly should never entertain a portable fire pit. While composite decking is less likely to catch fire than many other decking types, the same fire precautions should apply regardless of decking type. If you are thinking about getting a new deck for your home, give us a call at Vinyl Industries and we’d be happy to answer any questions that you may have!