Fire Pits – The Basic Outdoor Fireplaces
Among different types of Outdoor Fireplaces, Fire Pits are the most simple and basic. The main part of a Fire Pit is an open bowl. The bowl has a very important function. It serves as the fire box. Another important part of Fire Pits is legs (sometimes there is only one) that keep the Fire Pits at a safety distance above the ground. 
FUELS
As for the types of fuels there is an option of coal, wood and pressed logs that are commonly used for Fire Pits. However, whether you will be using logs, coal or wood depends greatly on the purpose of using you Fire Pit. Fire Pits should have ash holes in the bottom, so that the fire will have easy access to air. These holes are also supposed to remove the ash. Remember that Fire Pits as well as other Outdoor Fireplaces must be placed at your backyard in a safest way. The legs of Fire Pits are to stand on stone, wet grass or sand.
Coal, for example, produce much less smoke and is a perfect fuel for barbecue and grill. Coal-fired Fire Pits are usually sold with additional grill racks. Coal-fired Fire Pits are perfect option to enjoy peaceful Sunday on your outdoor living area.
Fire Pits that are supposed to be fueled with wood logs can add a romantic shade to your outdoor living area, because wood logs when burning resemble camp fire. It’s important to mention that this fire is easy to maintain, it can actually burn for hours.
Wood Fire Pits produce a lot of smoke. If the wood burned is wet or of bad quality the smoke will be pretty annoying. You will have to keep in mind your neighbors, as they may be dissatisfied with the smoke.
MATERIALS
Outdoor Fireplaces, such as Fire Pits or chimineas, are usually made from metal and clay.
Metal Fire Pits are popular and there is a reason for that. They need less attention and maintenance that clay Fire Pits and they come in a variety of designs. Stainless steel is becoming a trend now, while black is classic. A glass-enclosed fire bowl protecting fire from wind is a convenient feature that makes metal Fire Pits easier in operation.
To start with, Clay Fire Pits are rather fragile. Clay is a material that is prone to become weak and then crumble when wet, so you will have to be more careful and caring in respect of your Fire Pit. When being bought clay Fire Pits are to be thoroughly examined for cracks and damages. Check the manufacturing quality and durability. They consist of one single piece and are heavy. Being fragile they require much attention. You should try to prevent humidity and clear clay Fire Pit rather often. As for advantages of clay Fire Pit over, say, metal ones, Clay Fire Pits are capable to store heat longer. Needless to say that it also depends on each individual’s preference, as the material used determine greatly the design.
Overall, fire pits are the most basic of all Outdoor Fireplaces. They are a fantastic option when you don’t want to spent neither time nor money on constructing a more elaborate fireplace. And although in most urban areas open campfires are not allowed, you can install a Fire Pit and enjoy fire all the same.