Outdoor Gas Fire Pit Shop

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Today’s garden decor is more of an extension of your living space. Versatile outdoor spaces can be used for dining and lounging with family members, as well as entertaining guests. Decorating your garden for these functions gives you a fabulous alternative to the traditional dinner party! With the wonderful new garden decor trend of creating an outdoor kitchen and dining/living area you are expanding your square footage and increasing your home value. According to “Smart Money” magazine, consumers who spend 5 percent of the value of their home on landscaping can expect to add 15 percent or more to its value. Entertaining trends are following suit with the garden decor trends. Themed garden parties and of course the traditional American Barbeque is all the rage. It’s very easy and affordable to double your living space.

Add a few comfortable weatherproof chairs, an unused table, paint a lasting rug to your patio and you are on your way to doubling your living space or be inventive…Create a grass couch, table and loveseat, using a wood structure covered in sod. Be creative in your garden decor. Center your living/dinning space close to your “kitchen” area. In 2004 alone 14.5 million grills were sold, so that along with a small refrigerator, a prep/serving table and you have just achieved an inexpensive outdoor kitchen. You can always build a more defined structure encompassing built in appliances. Use your imagination and remember your garden decor is a refection of you and your family.

Adding a canopy or fire pit will make a wonderful addition to the completion of your garden decor. Create different rooms outside by separating the areas by plants, screens, and trellises. Place a fire pit in one corner away from all flammables, of course and place some place a few chairs around, to create a wonderful area to tell ghost stories and roast marshmallows. Use a canopy in another area and place an outdoor bed or picnic table under it and this will create a place to lounge in a shaded area and enjoy your garden. Trends are gearing towards mimicking your home outside. So duplicating your living spaces outside is an important aspect to your garden decor.

Adding life to your garden decor is also an essential part. There are many different ways to accomplish this. Make it a project for your whole family. Incorporate a vegetable and herb garden, pond or Butterfly garden to your garden decor. Nothing improves your garden more than the use of plant life, trees, native plants, perennials or annuals. Just make sure that they will survive your climate. Ask your local gardening store for assistance with your selection.

Ensure that your garden decor includes fragrant plants to enhance your outdoor experience. A Butterfly Garden is a perfect avenue to take. Not just beautiful plants to view, but an outdoor lab for your children to explore. Chose a sunny spot and include plants such as Lantana, zinnia, coneflower, butterfly bush and abelia. Butterflies especially love clusters of small tubular flowers. Some species enjoy fennel, parsley, dill, and rue which is a wonderful gateway to incorporate an herb garden. Adding a few of the fragrant plants will assist in drawing in birds bringing in even more life and color to your garden. Interjecting a birdhouse and a water source into your garden decor will ensure that the birds will come back and will provide hours of entertainment.

Exterior Worlds
http://www.articlesbase.com/gardening-articles/home-garden-decor-110872.html

Tempe, Arizona is such a great community to live in that homes for sale practically sell themselves. Who wouldn’t want to live in such a dynamic community, a place with easy access to Phoenix, Chandler, Mesa and Scottsdale? Tempe offers great schools, beautiful planned communities, and lots of variety, conveniences and amenities.

If you own a home in Tempe, you’ve probably seen your home equity increase as your home appreciates in value. You may be tempted to sell your home and use some of the equity as down payment for a larger home in Tempe.

Whether you plan to sell your home or not, chances are you’d like to make improvements to the property to increase its value. What are some changes you can make to your property to keep that home equity growing? The answer may surprise you. The trend nowadays focuses not on the inside of your house, but the outside, the landscaping.

Landscaping has become the hottest trend in property improvement. But the focus isn’t on merely adding some flowers or shrubs to your property. New buyers are looking for landscaping that creates a livable area outside the home, a yard that expands the space of the home to the great outdoors.

The Arizona sun provides so many days of beautiful weather, it’s a shame to waste time indoors. That’s part of the reason home owners are looking for what amounts to an outdoor living room.

Having a simple patio isn’t sufficient. If you really want to improve your Tempe home, consider adding a patio or terrace that reflects the elegance of the rest of your home. Instead of a mere concrete slab patio, add paving stones or tiles.

Another important feature to consider is a covered area. As much as you may love the sun, having a sheltered or shaded area to take a break is an important part of creating the feel of an outdoor living room.

The patio or terrace becomes an important part of the home for entertainment and enjoyment. What can you do to make your patio more functional, with a feeling of permanence? How about adding a built in grill, or consider making a mini-kitchen outdoors. It may take a little money to add the features, but its well worth it in terms of the value it adds to your home.

What living room is complete without a fireplace? Well, fireplaces are important parts of indoor living rooms, but not such a practical part of an outdoor living space. If you are considering adding an outdoor fireplace or fire pit, rethink your plans. These features add little value to the home because they aren’t something that is commonly used by most residents.

Water features, like ponds or waterfalls, offer little desirability. The feature may be pretty, but in the end it’s merely time consuming to maintain. A far better use of money is in a swimming pool. Traditionally, swimming pools aren’t considered a great equity generator in other parts of the country, but in Arizona, a pool can be a deal maker for a home.

More and more home owners are investing serious money in the landscaping around their home. They find the investment pays off not only in future sale of the property, but also increases their enjoyment of the home.

Consider making some improvements to the outside of your Tempe home, and you’ll find that your house has a whole new lease on life.

Reg Gustin
http://www.articlesbase.com/non-fiction-articles/giving-your-tempe-home-a-shot-in-the-arm-55767.html

Furnishing and accessorizing a deck can easily be a pleasant experience. A wide variety of different products are vailable to a homeowner. It is very important to avoid going to the extreme by placing too much on the deck.

This can easily turn the outdoor living space into an obstacle rather than a structure that enhances its aesthetic and functional qualities in relation to the home and yard.

In situations where the deck is to be used year round or during the evening, outdoor lights, fire pits and patio heaters merit consideration. Plan extra space around grills and fire pits. Take the steps required to ensure that passageways that are frequently used are a minimum of 4 feet wide and are clear of any kinds of obstruction.

Hot tubs and water features should only be considered if there is sufficient space available. Features such as these demand careful planning, substantial amounts of space, weight supports and their own electrical circuits.

Decorative lighting is a great way to establish the mood on a deck. The possibilities are almost limitless. Low voltage commercial light strings can be woven along railing systems or in nearby overhanging branches. Low voltage light fixtures can also be hidden in hanging planters to create a feeling of ambiance.

The addition of lights to the surrounding yard greatly enhances the view from the deck at night creating drama as well as a sense of security. Utilize spotlights or floodlights to accent trees, shrubs and sculpture. Add spread lights to throw light horizontally across a garden or flower bed. In addition, position wash lights to reveal texture on a surface such as a chimney or masonry wall.

Decorative lighting fixtures for the outdoors are available in both line and low voltage types. Often they are available with a choice of lamps that include halogen, incandescent and compact flourescent. The latter lamp type is energy efficient and lasts the longest.

Avoid solar powered lights because the light output they generate is quite low. LED lighting fixtures are the wave of the future for low voltage deck and landscape lighting. These lights work well on stairs, in railing systems and when mounted on railing posts.

LED bulbs have an incredible lifespan and virtually never need changing. Although LED light fixtures cost more initially than their traditional counterparts, they are cheaper in the long run. They also conserve energy and are cooler thus reducing any danger related to finger burns.

A hot tub can be a great deck addition for relaxation but it requires a good deal of planning. Details must be worked out well in advance for its size, the number and placement of water jets, the location on the deck and support. All this must be done before any concrete is poured and any framework is built.

Hot tubs come in a variety of materials that include acrylic, stainless steel and ceramic tile. They also vary greatly in size with capacities up to 8 people.

The hot tub should be located in a space that maintains privacy. A separate open air or screened gazebo can work extremely well while providing a handy place to store towels, robes, shoes and even books.

Where the hot tub is part of the main deck structure, consider the installation of built-in seating around it. Think about placing planters in such a way as to separate the hot tub from other activity areas. Hot tubs can be installed flush with the deck surface or they can sit on the deck’s surface.

Flush type hot tubs need a concrete slab for support. Hot tubs on the deck surface require extra footings and additional framing.

Any hot tub will need a water source, an electrical source, housing for the pump, valves and filter. A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is a must to prevent possible electrocution. A wise decision would be to involve a licensed electrician and plumber in the addition process of a hot tub to the deck.

Ornamental water features, either freestanding or wall mounted, can buffer unwanted noise and provide a measure of relaxation. They require a power source to operate the pump motor. Water can be added occasionally to replenish the system and help to keep the pump functioning efficiently.

In cases where the foutain has a large water basin, a direct water source and a float valve can be used to maintain the water level automatically.

Reflecting pools and small ponds are wonderful possible deck accessories. Most often they are permanent structures with poured concrete or brick bases. A pump is a necessity to keep the water aerated and prevent the growth of algae. Again, a GFCI is an absolute necessity.

The pond or pool can be lined with either a rigid or flexible liner to keep water from draining away. Stones can be place around the edges to keep the liner in place and add a natural look. A wide array of aquatic plants such as water lilies can provide many decorative opportunities for the home gardener.

The number one activity on a deck is the burning of meat. Portable grills include larger grilling areas, side tables for resting serving plates, wheels so that the grill can be moved out of the way when necessary, rotisseries and side burners.

Built-in grills are a recent popular option. The advantages of these include permanent gas hookups, large grilling areas and roasting capactitiy, optional burners and rotisseries as well as durable weatherproof construction.

Portable or permanent food preparation and staging counters are becoming more popular. The space below the counter can become a cabinet for the storage of basic cooking and serving supplies. Cabinets on locking casters can add a great deal of portability to the food preparation and serving area.

Construction of such items will require the use of exterior grade plywood, water resistant finishes and polished stone, stainless steel or pocelain tile countertop materials.

The choice of whether or not to have a fire pit on a deck hinges upon how often it will be used and whether or not local bylaws allow it. In addition fire pits take up much space, pose safety issues and can be an eyesore at times. An alternative to a fire pit might be a chimnea or a portable fireplace.

The second choice, often called a fire bowl, is generally ringed with a stone ledge which can double as a place to set down a drink or plate.

More and more homeowners are opting to extend the outdoor entertaining season on the deck by using parasol shaped patio heaters. They are movable and burn kerosene, butane, propane or natural gas. Patio heaters come in many styles, sizes and price ranges.

Safety features can include emergency cutoff valves, flame controls, electronic ignition and infrared heating technology. The best placement is in a wind sheltered area.

The final option would be a built-in masonry fireplace located near the perimeter of the deck. It can be constructed with stone or brick which can complement materials already in existence around the house and yard.

Successful deck planning should take into account furnishing and accessorizing a deck so that homeowners, family members and guests will have every opportunity to enjoy their time on this new outdoor living space.

Richard Vande Sompel
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/how-to-accessorize-a-deck-237334.html

As homeowners continue to seek out those ways to maximize their living space, they inevitably turn to the outdoors where a patio may be in use in temperate weather. But as temperatures drop and the outside becomes a place we avoid, outside gathering spaces fall to the wayside until the thaw. However, with a safe and efficient patio heater, outdoor space can be enjoyed year round.

Those in search of a patio heater can most often turn to their local home improvement store to find something to meet their needs. You can find a patio heater of any style, color, and cost that will not only provide the heat you need but transform the look of your patio. For those who prefer to keep their outdoor space as natural looking as possible, an in-ground patio heater can look similar to a fire pit and blend seamlessly in with the environment. Wood or charcoal can be used to ignite this style of heater.

More popular, however, is the stand-alone patio heater that comes in a variety of sizes and colors, and is made from a variety of materials. The pot-belly stove stand-alone patio heater is quite popular today; its wide mouth allows you to load and ignite wood, charcoal, or smokeless pellets; the smoke is vented at the top. This style of patio heater is compact and quite efficient, generously heating an entire outdoor space in very little time.

Choosing an appropriate patio heater largely depends on its frequency of use. If your outdoor patio is something that could easily extend your living space if only you could use it all the time, then choose a more permanent, efficient patio heater. You may pay a little more, but it will be well worth it in space gained. For outdoor space that is used infrequently, you may be better off with a lesser model of patio heater. Choose a design that will work efficiently with less expensive fuel sources.

No matter which patio heater you choose, you will find a whole new world opened for you as you begin to enjoy your outdoor space regardless of the weather.

Michelle Bery
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/use-a-patio-heater-to-enjoy-your-outdoor-space-111455.html

Hi, I’m looking for a cheap way to provide some patio heating. I know you can get clay chimeneas and fire pits and I have a few clay plant pots (just bought from my local supermarket) and I was wondering if lighting a fire in one of those would be safe? I’m not really up on clay and stuff….but I just wondered if it was PURE clay they use or is it a mix of materials that would render it unsafe to use in this fashion? Any help guidance would be appreciated…or any other unique idea for creating patio heat for low/minimal cost that I can sort out in a matter of hours (planning a romantic evening for my other half in the garden!)

If it cools to fast it will break . Try an old washing machine tub on top of some fire brick,it will put out a lot of heat and will burn great .

I’m making a small firepit out of these cement blocks we bought at homeDepot. but my dad is really worried that the fire will wreck the cement "patio" that will be underneath. Is there anything that I can line the inside of the fire pit with so it doesn’t wreck the cement under it?

line it if you have the room with fire bricks

Information regarding those store bought propane fire pits. How long do they burn? Cost of running for about 5 hours. Any suggestions of which work best? Last longer? I am looking at the ones that look like they have a stone foundation or larger burn area more than the small ones that would go on a patio.

My favorite is the castlerock firepit at The Home Depot. If you go to homedepot.com and type "castlerock firepit" or "3-6242-57-0SL" into the search it will pop up. These can burn propane fairly quickly though, especially if you have it on the highest setting. Expect to burn 1 gallon of propane on average for a 5 hour period. So at $3.50 / gallon, you’re look at a little under $1 an hour to run. The biggest headache is refilling or exchanging the 5 gallon propane tanks every week if you’re planning on using it everyday, 5 hours per day.

Outdoor fire pits are one of the fastest growing trends in outdoor design. Enjoy a cozy campfire year round! And fire pits are a great way to lighten up any barbecue or backyard gathering. They are also excellent for fighting cold temperatures and adding unrivaled ambiance to your patio, deck, and yard. Portable outdoor fire pits are typically manufactured from cast iron, copper, stainless steel, aluminum or ceramic, with accessories such as optional pit covers, and for gas and propane fire pits optional lava rocks and ceramic logs. Most fire pits are fueled one of two ways-wood burning or gas/propane.

Portable outdoor fire pits are the perfect investment for people who want an outdoor, low maintenance fire but either can’t afford or don’t need the solid structure of a custom built outdoor fire pit. You may be looking for large, semi-permanent outdoor fire pit made of copper, steel, cedar, brick, or stone; or, maybe a fire pit that is a little smaller and more portable, so you can even bring it along on your next car camping trip.

Designed for small fires, these units offer ambiance and warmth in the comfort of your own backyard for use on the ground or tabletop. Enjoy the beauty and comfort of an outdoor fire without the worry of the fire getting out of control.

Portable patio fire pits are available in many styles. The variety of choices makes it easy to choose one that will coordinate with your outdoor furniture. More ornate outdoor fire pits might include touches of granite or even mosaic patterns for decoration. Copper fire pits are durable and have a classic look that appeals to many people.

Chimineas are miniature ceramic or steel fireplaces, perfect for use on decks on and patios. The difference between a chiminea and a basic fire pit design is that the chiminea (or chimney) channels smoke up and away from you and your guest. That is a real benefit to those whose eyes are sensitive to wood smoke. Traditionally made out of ceramic, this outdoor stove was meant to cook food and provide heat by burning wood logs. The chiminea’s recognizable shape, with its rounded body and cylindrical, flaring stovepipe is quite appealing.

Most outdoor fire pits should be placed on a brick, stone or concrete surface to prevent fire. Wood decks require a fire resistant pad or barrier to be safe. Make sure the fire pit on level ground and that you have a fire extinguisher, sand, or water nearby. Cover all fire pits after use (after all parts are cool) to protect the materials from rain, sun and debris. Gas fire pits and propane fire pits are an excellent choice for places that have restrictions on outdoor burning. There are some disadvantages to gas fire pits: They are not suitable for cooking, you need to use quite a bit of gas to get the appearance of a wood fire and they’re generally more expensive-from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

Outdoor fire pits are a good investment for your outdoor living space because they can be utilized in multiple seasons depending on your geographic location. With comfortable outdoor furniture surrounding your new functional fire pit centerpiece, you can lounge in comfort and enjoy the warmth of the fire for hours. Online sites are a good starting point to see what is available.

Kate Wilkins
http://www.articlesbase.com/gardening-articles/outdoor-fire-pits-enjoy-your-garden-all-year-round-846764.html

I’ve heard of hanging a plastic bag of water (or vinegar, or something…actually i don’t know what’s in it)…in a doorway or by windows to keep flies out. Do you know what that is, or have any other suggestions? I don’t like "fly tape" or anything like that.
We like to sit on the back patio by the fire pit, but there are tons of flies.
Any ideas?

Half filled sandwich bag of water hung in a doorway method.
http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/gl_diseases_pests_insects/article/0,1785,HGTV_3580_1381705,00.html

On horses essential oils are used to reduce the number of flies that congregated on their faces. Oils like eucalyptus, rosemary, tea tree, or lavender appear effective. If the horses don’t like the smell they aren’t saying. They certainly do not like the flies.
These are often mixed with garlic and that really smells sulfuric, but it works, too.
For the horses mix a few drops of each essential oil into a little dab of Murphy’s Oil soap and add to apple cider or white vinegar and water. Put the resultant mixture into a spray bottle and shake well before using. Other people use strong, cold tea instead of water, crushed garlic or lemon peel as well as essential oils.
Citrus oil and rosemary smells good. Blend a lemon peel with a few tender tips of rosemary then just cover with boiling water. Allow to steep overnight and strain the mixture the following morning.
I think you can just buy lemon oil and other essential oils if that is easier.

Others feed their horses garlic capsules and add vinegar to the drinking water.
Then there is a prepared spray for horses.
http://www.arbico-organics.com/1108702.html

You could just hang rosemary around where you sit instead of wearing it. It will cool the walls of your house, too.
"Scents actually have a function … as protection from insects in some plants or as protection from drought in hot, arid climates (the thick volatile compounds we smell provide a protective layer around leaves). The old English custom of covering brick walls with sprigs of rosemary for cooling has been supported by modern research, which shows rosemary has 74 times the cooling effect of fresh air (thyme has 68 times the cooling effect, lavender 60 times)."
http://www.uvm.edu/extension/publications/oh/oh66.htm

Since flies are attracted to the amonia of manure or decaying flesh maybe sweet smells repel them. Flies certianly are attracted to Euphorbia, Sedum, members of the cabbage family, Dutchman’s pipe or the house plant alocasia. Elephant’s ears, Colocasia, are also fly attractors along with other aroids like skunk cabbage.

You could attract bats for their nocturnal dinning habits.