Fire Pit Covers: Extend the Lifespan of Your Fire Pit

As summer comes to an end and most of your entertainment activities are moving indoors, you may be wondering how to protect your fire pit from winter weather. Although you can enjoy the warmth and ambience of your outdoor fire pit year-round (think roasted marshmallows and hot chocolate), if you’re not planning on using it often, it’s probably a good idea to cover it up.

The Benefits of Fire Pit Covers

Similar to other outdoor furniture, a fire pit is exposed to weather elements that can cause damage over time. During the winter, protecting your fire pit with a high-quality fire pit cover can help shield it from wind, ice, and snow damage. Even if you live in a place with a mild, temperate climate, you’ll still need a cover for your fire pit. When exposed to prolonged periods of direct sunlight, UV rays can cause paint to fade, which will destroy the appearance of your fire pit.

Furthermore, covers can shield your fire pit from insects and animals that can seek refuge from the cold. Rodents like mice and rats may find a comfortable place to live in your fire pit when not in use. Once they’re cosy within the gas fire pit, rodents can eat through its rubber components and wires and fill it with nesting materials and faeces.

Extending the life of your fire pit is another benefit why you should cover it when not in use. This is especially beneficial since fire pits are valuable investments that can increase your property value. In fact, according to research, adding a firepit can raise the selling price of your house by 15% to 40%. By covering it, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your investment for many years to come.

Safety is another reason why you should be thinking about covering your outdoor patio accessory in winter. It might be difficult to keep small children away from the allure of an exposed, neglected fire pit. By adding a secure cover to your fire pit, you can minimise the chances of falls, scrapes, and bruises.

Finally, covering your fire pit reduces the need for regular cleaning. Both gas and wood-burning fire pits require regular cleaning and upkeep to maintain their attractiveness and safety. But cleaning leaves, twigs, and other debris from your fire pit can be a boring chore. Luckily, fire pit covers can keep your valuable investment clean, free of debris and ready for use anytime, saving you valuable time and effort.

Types of Fire Pit Covers

Fabric covers are the most common and practical type of covers. These are usually made from a durable material like PVC or polyester. One of the advantages of polyester is that it offers enduring strength, eliminating concerns about cracking even with extended use. Also, apart from being durable, polyester covers are capable of providing both water and UV protection. Another perk of polyester covers is that they are available in various colours and patterns to fit your outdoor style.

Vinyl is another popular choice for safeguarding your outdoor fire pit. It’s lightweight, easy to store, and generally a more budget-friendly option than polyester covers for fire pits. However, prolonged sun exposure on vinyl can cause brittleness and breaking over time. Next, fire pit covers are available in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. Therefore it’s important to choose one that will fit your fire pit perfectly.

Before making a purchase, you will need to carefully measure the fire pit you plan to cover. For instance, if you own a square fire pit, you need to measure its length, width, and height with a standard measuring tape. If you own a round fire pit, measure the height and diameter of your fire pit. If you struggle to find one with your exact dimensions, it’s always advisable to choose a cover that is slightly larger in diameter.

If your fire pit is a unique shape like an octagon or hexagon and you can’t find a standard-sized cover that fits, you can opt for custom-sized options. These are made to fit your fire pit perfectly, ensuring no area is left vulnerable to weather damage. Also, when looking for a new cover, think about the ease of installing and removing the cover.

It’s always a good idea to choose one that’s easy to install, particularly if you intend to use and store the fire pit frequently. Look for features like an elastic or drawcord hem, which not only keeps the cover in place but also makes using it very easy. An easily handled cover adds to the overall convenience of maintaining your patio in winter and year-round. On a final note, when the winter is over make sure to store your cover in a dry place to prevent mildew and sun damage.