Fire pits are build to be rugged, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they should be exposed to the elements when not in use.

So if you are wondering, should I cover my fire pit, this article will give you the quick answers you need to know how to protect your investment!

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should i cover my steel fire pit

If left out in the rain and snow, eventually your steel fire pit is going to rust.

While you may like the patina that rust could create on some fire pits, adding to its character, over time the rust will deteriorate the metal so much that it could weaken and break.

If you can’t store your steel fire pit in a garage or shed, it should always be kept covered when not in use to keep it protected and give it a much longer life.

should i cover my propane fire pit

Care should be taken with anything that burns propane to deter gas leaks.

Rain, snow, and excessive moisture can damage the components of the fire pit over time.

By having a cover in place, you can prevent water from rusting the burner and keep the elements from weakening the tubes and connections.

Also, covering your propane fire pit when it’s not in use can also help keep out debris such as leaves, twigs, and pollen that might accumulate inside the burner area.

Covering your gas fire pit will make lighting it up next time much easier and safer.

should i cover my stone fire pit

Whether or not you should cover your stone fire pit comes down to a matter of preference.

Water won’t hurt the stone themselves, but if you have a metal liner it has the potential to rust if not covered.

Stone fire pits can hold water in the bottom if it doesn’t have adequate drainage, and if that something that bothers you, covering it will help keep it dry.

An uncovered fire pit has the potential to be filled with debris, which doesn’t harm the pit, but again, if this is something that irritates you or looks unsightly, covering your fire pit will keep it clean.

Finally, one other question to ask yourself is whether or not you want to keep your stone moss and fungus free is important to you or not. This doesn’t hurt the pit, and some actually like how rustic it makes the stone look, but if this isn’t something that appeals to you, a cover can help.

What can i use to cover my fire pit

Many store-bought fire pits either come with their own cover, or have an optional cover you can buy that fits perfectly over the fire pit.

Another option is using a tarp to cover your fire pit.

It’s important to choose a heavy-duty tarp that is resistant to tearing and to secure the tarp with weights like bricks or cinder blocks placed strategically around its edges, or to tie it in place with rope or bungee cords.

If you’re looking for a more DIY approach, constructing a custom wooden cover might be an appealing option. With some basic woodworking skills and materials like pressure-treated lumber or cedar boards, you can create a sturdy lid that fits snugly over your fire pit.

This type of cover not only protects your fire pit but also adds an aesthetically pleasing element to your outdoor space.

There are also metal covers available that protect your pit and can also be used to put out your fire, like this one.

Ultimately, the choice of what material to use for covering your fire pit depends on personal preference, budget considerations, and the level of protection you desire.

Regardless of the method you choose, it’s essential to ensure that the cover fits securely so that mice and other critters don’t make a home inside your fire pit.

By investing in a suitable cover for your fire pit, you can extend its lifespan and keep it looking great for many years of cozy outdoor gatherings.

Other articles you may be interested in:
Ways to Reduce Smoke From a Fire Pit
Should a Fire Pit Be Below Ground?
Fire Pit Tips