How wood-burning, gas and propane fire pits, fire tables and outdoor fireplaces differ in warmth, ease, safety and installation.
Fire turns a patio into a gathering place. Wood-burning pits give crackle and smell, gas fire pits and tables start with a switch, and outdoor fireplaces add a chimney and a focal point. Portable propane pits move where you need them. Each type has different clearances, fuel and cleanup.
Rules and safety matter. Many communities have burn rules, and fire features need clearance from structures, overhead roofs and furniture. Gas features need correct gas lines and shutoffs. We help you pick a type for how you use the space, plan clearances and share care tips, and we suggest you confirm local rules before building.
Real flames and smoke, with ash and wood storage to manage.
Clean flames at the flip of a switch, with a gas line.
A chimney and mass that shelter flames and hold heat.
Gas features with a tabletop for drinks and plates.
Clearances, covers and local rules shape every fire feature.
Cleaning ash, covering burners and checking connections.
Outdoor KitchensCustom outdoor kitchens with grills, counters, storage, sinks and seating, designed around how you cook and entertain.Explore 
Outdoor FireplacesMasonry and prefabricated outdoor fireplaces with chimneys, hearths and mantels that anchor a patio and extend the season.Explore 
Outdoor ShowersOutdoor showers with stone or wood enclosures, drained bases and hot and cold plumbing for pools, hot tubs…Explore 
Outdoor Rooms and Backyard MakeoversWhole-yard makeovers that replace tired patios, bare lawns and clutter with a designed outdoor room your family will…Explore 
Outdoor Dining AreasOutdoor dining areas with the right size, surface, shade, lighting and furniture layout for relaxed family meals and…Explore 
Outdoor TV and EntertainmentWeatherproof TVs, mounts, wiring and seating for watching games, movies and shows from the patio.Explore 
Game Areas and Putting GreensPutting greens, bocce courts, cornhole pads and game lawns that give the yard room for friendly competition.Explore Pick a material, size a job or ballpark a budget.
Patio Material Picker QuizAnswer a few questions about looks, upkeep, drainage, kids, pets and budget focus to see which patio materials usually fit.Try it 
Patio Size and Materials CalculatorEnter your measurements to see square feet, pavers, base stone, sand, concrete, deck boards or wall block to plan for.Try it 
Patio and Outdoor Living Budget PlannerPick a patio, deck, kitchen, fire pit, wall or lighting job, set the size and add extras to see a ballpark planning range. Placeholder values only.Try it They start and stop easily and have no ash, and they need gas lines and proper installation.
Usually not a wood-burning one, and gas features need special clearances, so we plan carefully.
Gas lines and fireplaces often do, and some areas have burn rules. Confirm locally.
Comparison guidePatio MaterialsHow pavers, poured concrete, stamped concrete, natural stone, brick, tile and gravel differ in look, comfort, upkeep and…Learn more 
Comparison guidePavers vs Stamped vs StoneA side-by-side look at three popular patio surfaces: interlocking pavers, stamped concrete and natural stone.Learn more 
Comparison guideWood vs Composite DeckingHow pressure-treated wood, cedar, hardwood and composite decking differ in look, upkeep, heat and lifespan.Learn more 
Comparison guidePergolas, Pavilions and GazebosHow pergolas, pavilions, gazebos, covered patios and louvered roofs differ in shade, rain protection, structure and style.Learn more Call and describe your yard and what you would love to do outside. A designer will listen, talk through the options and give you a clear written estimate.
