Cast Iron and Steel Fire Pits
Gordon Swanson
A fire pit can add warmth and visual interest to any outdoor living space. With many options on the market for fire pit materials, cast iron and steel fire pits are enjoying increasing popularity.
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Cast iron fire pits offer several advantages over their counterparts made of different materials. First, they're extremely sturdy and durable. They offer some of the greatest warmth of any fire pits, so if you're in a cold climate, they may be optimal for you. They're not prone to rust, and many people consider them great for cooking.
On the downside, they're quite heavy and expensive, prone to discoloration if exposed to moisture and, since they become so hot so quickly, can be dangerous if touched before cooling.
Steel fire pits are also quite popular, and with good reason. They're weather resistant, lightweight, durable and relatively inexpensive. They may not be as sturdy as cast iron, but they can offer a pleasing aesthetic and are quite low maintenance.
The cons of stainless steel fire pits are mostly in the eye of the beholder. Some find them a bit bland design-wise, as brushed steel generally has a uniform and somewhat familiar color. They can also become quite hot when in use, and they should be treated with caution during and after any fire.
Cast iron and steel fire pits both provide durable, attractive options—it's up to you which metal will be helping to heat things up in your outdoor living space.
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