Bring warmth outdoors with firepits

In the winter edition of our gardening newsletter, The Dirt, Edgar Godinez, owner of Urban Customs Landscape, shares his expertise on fire pits and how to incorporate them into your backyard for the perfect get-together. 

Edgar got his start 21 years ago at his father’s landscape company and grew his skill and career in a big way — with his own successful design-build firm, which earned this year’s President’s Award from the local California Landscape Contrators Association for a renovation project that uses a fire pit as a focal point. 

What makes fire pits so alluring?

Godinez: Fire pits elevate outdoor spaces by creating a warm gathering area for family and friends. They add a welcoming atmosphere that expands your living space outdoors and significantly enhances the overall look and feel of your home.

What’s better, gas or propane?

Godinez: Gas-line fire pits offer the benefit of never running out of fuel during gatherings and they can be fully customized to match your outdoor design. However, they do come with higher costs due to gas line installation, proper construction for heat resistance, and the possibility of requiring permits or HOA approval.

Propane tank pits can be installed quickly — often in a day — and cost significantly less than a custom-built gas-line fire pit. They provide convenience and immediate use. On the downside, they cannot be customized as extensively and do not deliver the same tailored aesthetic. Additionally, you must regularly replace propane tanks.

What key takeaways would you like to share?

Godinez: When planning for a fire pit, be sure it complements the style of your home and is located in a safe and accessible area. Remember to size it to comfortably accommodate the group you will be entertaining. Most of all, have fun. Enjoy the process and let your creativity guide you. A fire pit is one of those features you simply can’t go wrong with.

Read more at IRWD.com/thedirt.