Fire Pit on a Trex Deck: Is it safe?
Whether you chose the Trex composite decking brand yourself or inherited the outdoor living area when you bought the property, there are a few considerations to make before adding your personalized decorating stamp, mainly fire pit options.
The dominant question for many composite Trex decking owners is, “Can I use a fire pit on my composite decking?”
Absolutely, and with precautions, you can easily install a fire pit with a bit of planning.
What is Composite Decking?
There are several manufacturers of composite decking, but Trex is the best option for a versatile decking substitute for lumber.
Composite decking is made of a blend of plastic components like polypropylene or polyethylene and other additives to make it durable and appealing. Basically, it’s plastic engineered to mimic the benefits of wood decking while overcoming some of the downsides of natural wood materials.
Most composite materials are mixed with wood flour, fiber, sawdust, or chips to create a tough, durable, low-maintenance product for all climates.
Is Trex Decking Fire Resistant?
These two terms are not interchangeable. It is designated to differentiate between the melting points and self-extinguishing capabilities.
Fire Resistant means non-flammable at a chemical level and is self-extinguishing, while retardant is slow to burn.
Both terms need to be rated and standardized by industry professionals to meet specific criteria.
Trex decking is rated Class C (III) and surprisingly has the same burning factors as wood.
But you can install a fire pit on Trex deck or another composite decking (read manufacturer guidelines for warranty) if you follow basic precautions.
Gas Versus Wood Burning Pit on Trex Decking
Who doesn’t love sitting around a campfire chatting and laughing and smelling like soot the following day? Natural wood flames are mesmerizing to watch, and man’s ability (or inability) to start a fire is still hotly debated in many backyards.
Perhaps gas is a better option for entertaining in outdoor living areas, and with the click on a remote, voila—flames.
Regardless of which option appeals to you, natural gas, propane, or wood, preparing your deck for a fire pit requires minimal research and little planning.
Wood Pits
Wood may be an excellent choice for larger yards, but for smaller intimate backyards and decks, consider that wood sends sparks and embers into the air that may cause damage to the decking and other parts of the house and yard.
Pros:
Authentic fire ambiance and beauty
Readily available
Inexpensive
Better flame
Cons:
Messy ashes
Labor intensive
Sparks and embers
Higher heat
We’ve already discussed that composite decking burns just like wood. Trex decking starts to melt at 176℉, and wood can burn to reach a temperature of 1000℉ and more.
Gas Pits
Propane gas is portable and is less messy than a wood fire as there are no ashes to clean out or wood to chop and stack. Gas fire pits come in endless vessel varieties and add decorative value to outdoor living spaces.
Natural gas fire pits are an excellent option but require professional installation. The selection is stylish and affordable.
Pros:
User friendly
Clean
Versatile and complimentary styles
Less heat
Cons:
Fake looking flame
Less heat
Less burn time
May require professional installation
Pick a Spot
Before installing your wood or gas fire pit on the deck, call your insurance company and your local authorities about the detailed terms covered under your policy and the fire pit regulations in your area. In many places, gas fire pit fires are not permitted during fire bans either.
Placing fire pits too close to a building can damage the exterior or, worse, start a fire. Aim for 20-30 feet away from flammable structures.
However, even if your yard and deck are small, you can still enjoy a fire pit. There are a few options to consider.
For optimum safety, place your fire pit in an out-of-the-way location to avoid tripping hazards and that it meets the distance requirements mentioned above.
Prepare your ideal fire pit location and ensure that you are not too close to your neighbor, any trees or shrubs that may catch fire, and out of harm’s way for children and pets.
Leave enough room that sitting 3-5 feet from flames is comfortable.
Prepare the Area
Regardless of which option appeals to you, wood or gas, prepare the area by raising the pit off the Trex or wood decking by creating a heat barrier.
Use pavers, bricks, or fire grates to lift the pit off the deck. For larger wood fire pits, ensure you leave at least an 8” clearance between the deck and bottom of the pit. For wood pits, invest in a fire grate topper for added protection.
Investing in fire pit mats to prevent damage to your decking material is crucial. Mats come in various sizes and shapes to fit most styles of pits. Look at consumer ratings and reviews to determine which mat fits your needs.
Most portable gas and wood fire pits already sit on legs or include stands for optimal clearance. Still, a fire prevention mat is an inexpensive accessory to save your decking from damage as an extra precaution.
What Kind of Fire Pit Can You Put on a Composite Deck Like Trex Deck?
Everyone has a preference when it comes to backyard decking choices and the best fire pit options. For Trex or composite decking, gas fire pits may be a better solution and safer regardless of your ideal preferences.
All decking options are expensive. Wood has experienced massive increases in the last couple of years, and not everyone appreciates composite decking for its benefits. Every product on the market has benefits and drawbacks.
Exploring wise decisions and reviews is an excellent alternative to experimenting on our own and investing time and money without proven results.
Gas and propane fires produce less heat and flames and make attractive additions to our outdoor living spaces. That they are hassle-free makes them a perfect choice for many families.