Fire Pit or Fireplace: Which One Fits Your Backyard Best?

There’s something timeless about gathering around a fire in the backyard—whether it’s for roasting marshmallows, staying warm on a chilly evening, or simply enjoying the ambiance. But when it comes to adding a fire feature to your outdoor space, many homeowners find themselves asking: Should I install a fire pit or a fireplace?

Both options create a beautiful focal point and extend your outdoor living season, but they offer different benefits, styles, and costs. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between a fire pit and an outdoor fireplace, so you can decide which one fits your backyard, budget, and lifestyle best.

What’s the Difference?

Before we compare, let’s define each:

• Fire Pit: A round or square open structure (usually low to the ground) where a fire is built, often surrounded by seating. It can be wood-burning or gas-powered.

• Outdoor Fireplace: A vertical structure that resembles an indoor fireplace, complete with a chimney or flue, often built into a wall or patio layout.

Fire Pit: Pros, Cons, and Best Uses

✅ Pros of Fire Pits:

• Social and Interactive: Great for gathering people in a circle, promoting conversation.

• 360-Degree Seating: Guests can sit all around the fire.

• Flexible Placement: Can be freestanding or portable; easier to integrate into various layouts.

• Budget-Friendly: Generally more affordable than fireplaces.

• Versatile Designs: Can be built from stone, metal, concrete, or bought as a pre-made set.

❌ Cons of Fire Pits:

• Less Wind Protection: Open flame can be affected by breezes.

• Less Smoke Control: Especially with wood-burning models, smoke can blow in any direction.

• May Not Be Allowed in Some Areas: Certain HOA or city codes may restrict open flames.

Best For: Casual get-togethers, family nights, s’mores sessions, and backyards where space and budget are limited.

Outdoor Fireplace: Pros, Cons, and Best Uses

✅ Pros of Outdoor Fireplaces:

• Elegant and Impressive: Adds a luxurious, architectural element to your outdoor space.

• Wind and Smoke Control: Chimney directs smoke upward and away from guests.

• Adds Privacy and Structure: Acts as a partial wall or visual anchor in outdoor living areas.

• Year-Round Usability: Ideal for staying warm in cooler seasons.

• Higher ROI: May increase property value due to its permanence and upscale appearance.

❌ Cons of Outdoor Fireplaces:

• Higher Cost: Requires more materials, labor, and permitting.

• Limited Seating: Usually faces one direction, like a TV or screen.

• Requires Space: Larger footprint compared to fire pits.

Best For: Outdoor living rooms, dining areas, or patios where you want a statement piece and a structured environment.

Fire Pit vs. Fireplace: Cost Comparison

Pro Tip: Gas-powered options (both pit and fireplace) cost more upfront but offer cleaner burning and easier control.

Which One Fits Your Backyard Best? Key Questions to Ask

1. How much space do you have?

• Small backyard? A compact fire pit offers warmth without taking up too much room.

• Larger patio or outdoor room? A fireplace can anchor the space and double as a feature wall.

2. What’s your budget?

• Fire pits are ideal for homeowners who want a quick, budget-friendly upgrade.

• Fireplaces are an investment, but they provide lasting beauty and resale appeal.

3. What’s the vibe you’re going for?

• Want a casual, campfire feel for social gatherings? Choose a fire pit.

• Prefer a more refined, romantic, or formal ambiance? Go for a fireplace.

️ 4. How exposed is your backyard to wind?

• Fireplaces offer more protection and channel smoke away effectively.

• Fire pits can be impacted by wind and may need strategic placement or wind screens.

‍‍‍ 5. Who will use it?

• Fire pits are fun and interactive—great for kids and group activities.

• Fireplaces create a cozy setting for adults, dinner parties, and intimate evenings.

✨ Bonus: Can You Have Both?

Absolutely! Some homeowners install a fireplace as the central anchor for their outdoor room, and then place a fire pit further out in the yard for casual hangouts.

This dual-fire feature approach adds depth, functionality, and versatile entertainment options to your outdoor living space.

✅ Safety & Code Considerations

Before installation, always:

• Check local fire codes and HOA guidelines

• Use non-combustible materials

• Keep a safe distance from buildings, trees, and overhangs

• Have fire extinguishers or water sources nearby

• Consider gas shut-off valves and spark guards

Pro Tip: Professional installation ensures you meet local codes and maximize safety—especially for gas-powered units.

Maintenance Tips

For Fire Pits:

• Clean out ashes regularly (if wood-burning)

• Cover when not in use to prevent rust or debris

• Inspect burners and fuel lines if using gas

For Fireplaces:

• Clean chimney or vent annually

• Check for soot buildup, cracks, or weather damage

• Use a fireplace cover or screen to protect the structure

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose a fire pit or an outdoor fireplace, adding a fire feature creates a welcoming, year-round gathering space. It’s the perfect way to extend your evenings, warm up in the fall, and create lasting memories in your backyard.

Both options have their strengths—so choose the one that matches your goals, budget, and style. Or, if space and budget allow, why not enjoy the best of both worlds?

Ready to Add a Fire Feature to Your Backyard?

At American Services of TN, we specialize in custom outdoor living solutions, including fire pits, fireplaces, screen rooms, decks, and more. Let us help you design a space that’s warm, beautiful, and built to last.

Contact us today or fill out the form below for a free consultation!