There are a lot of different reasons why someone might want to buy a fire pit. Maybe you live in an area with long, cold winters, and you want to be able to enjoy your backyard all year round. Or maybe you simply love spending time outdoors, but you don’t necessarily want to deal with the hassle of building a bonfire every time you want to roast marshmallows.

Whatever your reasons, if you’re in the market for a fire pit, you’ll quickly discover that there are two main types to choose from: gas or wood burning. Each has its own unique set of pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.

If you’re looking for convenience, a gas fireplace is probably your best bet. These units run on either natural gas or propane, and they can be lit with the push of a button – no matches required. Gas fireplaces also tend to produce less smoke than their wood-burning counterparts, so they’re a good choice if you have neighbors close by.

On the downside, a gas fireplace can be more expensive to operate than wood-burning ones. Propane is a particularly pricey fuel, so if you opt for this type of unit, be prepared to spend a bit more each month on your utility bill. Also, gas fire hearths don’t offer quite the same ambiance as wood-burning ones – there’s something about the smell of burning wood that can’t be replicated with gas.

For many people, the biggest appeal of a wood-burning fire pit is the fact that it creates such a cozy, inviting atmosphere. There’s just something about sitting around a crackling fire that makes any outdoor space feel like a true oasis. Wood-burning pits also tend to be less expensive than their gas-powered counterparts, both in terms of the initial purchase price and the cost of operation.

Of course, there are a few downsides to a wood-burning hearth as well. For one thing, they can be messy – you’ll need to deal with ashes and soot regularly. Additionally, these units require matches or a lighter to get started, so they’re not quite as convenient as gas fire pits. Finally, a wood-burning fire pit produces a lot of smoke, so they’re not the best choice if you have close neighbors.

So, which type of fire pit is right for you? The answer ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you’re looking for convenience and don’t mind spending a bit extra each month on your utility bill, a gas fire pit is probably your best bet. However, if you prefer the ambiance of a real wood fire and don’t mind dealing with a little bit of mess, a wood-burning fireplace is probably the way to go. Whichever type you choose, you’re sure to enjoy many relaxing evenings gathered around your new backyard focal point.