Can Fire Tables Be Placed on Grass?

Placing a fire table on grass is tempting for its cosy atmosphere, but it requires careful consideration. From fire hazards to lawn damage, here’s what you need to know before setting your fire table on your grassy backyard.

Risks of Placing Fire Tables on Grass

Before you get too carried away imagining the crackling flames and warm evenings, let’s consider the risks involved in placing your fire table on grass. It might seem like a good idea at first, but there are a few important things to think about.

Fire Hazards:

Dry Grass and Potential for Fire Spread:

Picture this: a warm summer evening, the fire table crackling away, when suddenly a stray ember floats away, landing on your dry grass. It’s a scenario no one wants to deal with, but it’s a real risk. Grass can be highly flammable, especially when it's dry, and a fire table’s sparks or embers can easily ignite it, leading to a full-blown fire. It’s a serious safety concern, one that shouldn’t be overlooked when setting up your outdoor fire feature.

Embers and Sparks:

Even with a well-maintained fire, some sparks and embers are bound to escape. When placed on grass, these fiery little bits can quickly spread if they land in the wrong place. If they hit a patch of dry grass, it could easily start a fire. This is why it’s crucial to have protective barriers or take extra precautions when placing a fire table on grass.

Damage to Grass:

Scorching and Killing the Grass:

No one likes to see their lush lawn turn into a patchy, brown mess. Unfortunately, fire tables can easily scorch and kill the grass beneath them. The heat generated by these tables is intense, and while it keeps you warm, it can also burn through the delicate roots of your lawn. You could be left with permanent damage to your garden, and let’s face it, no one wants to spend their summer looking at a charred patch of earth.

Uneven Burning and Potential for Fire Pits:

Grass isn’t always level, and this can lead to instability. A fire table that isn’t placed on a flat surface might wobble or tip, which could cause it to burn unevenly. This doesn’t just affect the fire, but also the grass – some parts may get scorched more than others. A fire pit placed on uneven ground is more likely to create hotspots, leading to patchy, unsightly burn marks in your lawn.

Protective Measures

If you’re determined to enjoy your fire table on grass, there are some precautions you can take to protect your garden and keep things safe. Here are some simple steps that can help reduce the risks.

Heat-Resistant Barriers:

Concrete Pavers, Stone Slabs, or Metal Sheets:

A smart way to protect your lawn is to use heat-resistant barriers under your fire table. Concrete pavers, stone slabs, or metal sheets act as a shield, preventing the heat from reaching your grass. They also help to stabilise the fire table, ensuring it stays firmly in place. This step not only protects your grass but also makes the table safer to use.

Proper Sizing and Placement:

When setting up your fire table, be sure the protective barrier is large enough to cover the full area beneath the fire feature. It should extend beyond the edges of the table to catch any escaping heat or embers. Place the fire table in the centre of the barrier for maximum protection, ensuring that there’s no direct contact between the fire table and your grass.

Clearance and Distance:

Maintaining a Safe Distance from Surrounding Grass:

It’s important to ensure that your fire table is not placed too close to the edges of the grass. Maintain at least a 60 cm clearance all around the fire table to avoid any heat transfer to the surrounding lawn. Not only does this help prevent scorching, but it also gives the fire enough space to burn safely, reducing the risk of stray embers starting a fire elsewhere in the garden.

Fire Table Design and Features

If you’re not willing to give up your dream of a fire table on the grass, it’s worth considering the design and features of the fire table itself. Some models are better suited for this setup than others.

Low-Profile Fire Tables:

Reduced Heat Transfer to the Surface:

Low-profile fire tables are a fantastic option if you’re set on placing your fire feature on grass. These models are designed to keep the heat closer to the ground, which reduces the amount of heat that transfers to the surface beneath. With less heat directed at the grass, the risk of scorching and lawn damage is significantly lower.

Built-in Safety Features:

Flame Height Adjustment and Safety Shut-Off:

Many modern fire tables come with built-in safety features that make them safer to use in outdoor settings. Flame height adjustment is particularly useful, allowing you to control how much heat is generated. Additionally, some fire tables are equipped with safety shut-off mechanisms, which automatically turn the flame off if it gets too high or if the table tips over. These features can make a fire table safer for use on grass by reducing the risk of overheating and fire hazards.

Alternatives to Grass Placement

If you’re still worried about the risks of placing a fire table on your lawn, there are several alternative placement options that can keep your garden safe and stylish.

Patios or Decks:

Safer Surfaces for Fire Tables:

A much safer alternative to grass is placing your fire table on a solid, non-flammable surface such as a patio or deck. These surfaces are far more stable and provide a level, sturdy foundation for your fire table. They also offer better protection against heat transfer, as they’re less likely to catch fire or become damaged by heat. Plus, the fire table becomes a more permanent feature of your outdoor space, adding charm and warmth to your patio.

Gravel or Stone Areas:

Creating a Dedicated Fire Pit Area:

If you want to keep your fire table in the garden but don’t want to risk damaging the lawn, creating a dedicated gravel or stone area can be a great solution. By laying down gravel or stone slabs, you create a fire-safe zone that protects your grass from heat damage while still providing a stylish outdoor setting. It’s a practical and attractive way to enjoy your fire table without compromising on safety or aesthetics.

Conclusion

Placing a fire table on grass isn’t impossible, but it does come with risks. From potential fire hazards to damage to your lawn, there are a number of factors to consider before deciding where to set up your fire feature. With the right protective measures, such as heat-resistant barriers, and by choosing the right fire table design, you can still enjoy the warmth and beauty of a fire table in your garden. However, exploring alternative placements, such as patios or gravel areas, may be the safest and most effective solution.

By taking these precautions, you can ensure your fire table becomes a delightful addition to your outdoor space, without compromising your lawn or safety. Enjoy your garden in style, and make your fire table the centrepiece of a safe, cosy, and beautiful backyard experience.