When we speak of fire pit covers, we are talking about two different types of accessories. These are not referring to the spark screen covers or safety screens made of stainless steel mesh material. But the copper fire pit or metal fire pit snuffer covers or fire pit lids coated with a heat-resistant paint and used to put out the fire in your patio heaters or outdoor fireplace.
The other kind of firepit cover is a fabric or vinyl cover that protects your entire unit. In this article, we will describe and discuss both and outline the many good reasons why you should invest in both a snuffer cover and a protective cover for your fire pit. Read on to learn more.
Fire Pit Snuffer Covers
A snuffer cover for your fire pit is an invaluable accessory. Investing in a heavy duty metal lid that fits securely over the pit when you are ready to put the fire out ensures will be no stray sparks. This type of lid limits (or eliminates) air flow to the dying embers of your fire, you can be sure the fire does not rekindle after putting it out.
A sturdy metal lid or stainless steel cover on a fire pit also helps prevent rain entering the bowl of the pit. If you have an in-ground fire pit, a strong metal cover will keep animals and people from accidentally falling in when you are away.
Snuffer lids come in a variety of styles. Avoid the flat, hinged version that folds and has cut-outs instead of handles. These features just defeat the purpose of the product.
You want a solid, cone-shaped or domed lid with strong, sturdy handles and no holes to allow air in. It is important to be able to pick up and move the snuffer lid quickly, easily and safely. It should deflect moisture and keep air out. Here is a good example:
Higley Fire Pit Covers
This Round Metal Steel Fire Pit Cover by Higley is a solid, cone-shaped fire pit snuffer. It is made in the USA of solid steel. It is equipped with two sturdy lift off handles. Its solid construction blocks air flow and protects your fire pit from rain, snow, and blown-in debris. This unit is strong and simple and will last a lifetime. It weighs in at around 15 pounds.
Your fire pit may come with a snuffer lid, if it doesn’t, it is worthwhile to invest in one. You can usually find them at home and garden supply stores or online.
You’ll find cover to fit all sizes for fitre pits. From a small 18″ one like this black one from Heininger, up to a 48″ aluminum fire pit cover at Amazon.
If you have a local welder, you may be able to have one custom made to fit your fire pit perfectly.
This type of cover should be made of stainless steel or cast iron, but you’ll find aluminum ones as well. They can be a bit pricey, but once you buy a snuffer lid, you will be highly unlikely to need to replace it. Having this secure lid over your fire pit can greatly enhance your safety and peace of mind. This peace of mind goes for outdoor gas fire pits which are portable models, propane tanks or more permanent natural gas fired units.
Protective Cover For Fire Pits
In addition to a snuffer cover, you would also be wise to purchase a protective cover to prevent having your outdoor fire pit damaged by inclement weather. This type of cover is made of weather-proof canvas, nylon, plastic or vinyl that will protect even your wood-burning fire pit from damage caused by precipitation and wind-blown debris.
While you might think it would be OK to just toss a tarp over your fire pit in the winter time, the fact is you need to invest in a high-quality cover to thoroughly protect your investment. Good covers are very durable, function well and look good for many years.
High quality covers typically cost between $20 and $30 yet they can save you a great deal of money and effort. Some of the best companies producing top notch fire pit covers are:
- Classic Accessories
- Duck Covers
- Fire Sense
The best covers are made of a special PVC-lined fabric that can withstand below-zero temperatures and will keep all moisture out. Good covers even for square fire pits have vents built in so moisture will not condense underneath and cause damage to your fire pit. Keeping your fire pit properly covered will help protect it against rust and tarnish.
Protecting your investment with a well-designed cover also helps keep your yard looking tidy. Covers come in a wide variety of styles and colors to match any setting. A tailored, well-fitted attractive cover will look a whole lot better on your deck or in your backyard all winter long than a tarp flapping in the breeze.
Fire pits aren’t cheap, and investing in a high-quality protective cover can greatly extend the life of your investment. Keeping your fire pit well covered in the off season will help insure that it looks great and functions well the first time you fire it up in the springtime.
How To Choose A Protective Fire Pit Cover
When looking for just the right cover to provide protection, safety, good looks and years of service, there are a few considerations you must keep in mind.
1. Examine fabric and workmanship carefully. Your fire pit cover should be made of a durable, weather-resistant material such as outdoor fabric, plastic or vinyl. It should be breathable and equipped with vents to prevent condensation of moisture. Consider the weather conditions in your area and choose a fabric that will protect your fire pit from potential damage caused by:
- Dirt/Sand
- Insects
- Snow
- Wind
- Hail
- Rain
- Sun
- Ice
Keep in mind that if you have a stationary fire pit, it will be in place constantly, year round. This means it will face a great deal of potential wear and tear. For this reason, you must avoid cheap fabrics that may be subject to ripping and tearing.
Examine the seams of any cover you are considering buying. If the stitching is loose or there are any gaps or small holes in the seams, pass that cover by. You want a good, tight, tailored fit that will protect your fire pit from all environmental threats. A couple of the best choices in fabrics are Gardelle and Rain-Tite.
Be aware that fabric covers can be damaged by excessive heat from the fire pit. Even though they are made of flame resistant fabric, you should wait until your fire pit is fully cooled before putting the cover in place.
2. Choose an adjustable cover. Look for a cover that is designed to fit the type of fire feature you have. Measure height and width carefully and look for a perfect fit. If you are unable to find the exact size you need, you can use a cover that is up to six inches larger than necessary as long as it has adjustable closures such as:
- Elastic loops
- Click-closed straps
- Toggle-equipped hem cords
This will allow you to custom fit your cover so that you can be sure it will stay in place even in windy, stormy weather.
3. Make sure it’s convenient to use. Look carefully at the design of any cover you are considering. If it is too fussy or difficult to use, it may prevent you from enjoying your fire pit because it’s too much trouble to remove. Conversely, you may tend to skip using the cover if it’s just too difficult to deal with.
Be sure to choose a model that is easy to put in place and remove by yourself so that you will use the cover consistently. Even if you store your portable fire pit in a sheltered location during the winter months, a protective cover should be put in place between uses during the spring, summer and autumn months.
The Right Choice Protects Your Investment & Enhances Your Enjoyment
With a good fire pit cover, your unit will be ready to use at any time. You can light up a fire on the backyard fire pit for yourself or unexpected guests on a whim. You won’t have to avoid lighting up a fire after a rain or even snowfall because the bowl of your fire pit will be nice and dry and ready to use. You will never have to clean soggy ash out to start a fire.
No matter what kind of fire pit you have, portable or stationary, DIY fire pit, wood-burning pit or made out with grill pan, a snuffer cover and a high-quality protective cover will help enhance the safety and the longevity of your unit.