Author: Brent Williamson

Grilling your own food offers several benefits, some of which we’re going to discuss in today’s blog post.

#1) Grilling is a Social Activity

While there are always exceptions to this, grilling is typically a social activity in which multiple people participate. Even if it’s just sitting around the grill or fire pit, it offers the perfect opportunity to converse with friends and family.

#2) Grilled Food Tastes Better

Whether it’s a burger, steak, hot dogs, pork chops, etc., there’s just something about grilled food that makes it taste better. According to an article published by Business Insider, grilled food scientifically tastes better because of a specific compound found in charcoal. Known as guaiacol, this compound is responsible for the distinct smokey flavor of grilled food.

#3) Soak up The Sun

Since grilling is done outdoors, it allows you to soak up the sun. If you work a traditional 9 to 5 job in the office, you may not get many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Grilling food for lunch and/or dinner, however, is a window during which you can go outside and get some sunshine. As a side benefit, the increased sun exposure from grilling outdoors will trigger vitamin D production in your body, helping to prevent vitamin D deficiency — an-all-too common condition from which millions of men and women suffer.

#4) You’ll Use Less Butter

When you sauté or pan-fry food over the stove, you’ll typically need to add a decent amount of butter or oil; otherwise, the food will burn and stick to the bottom of the pan. Grilling, however, doesn’t require an excessive amount of butter or oil. You can coat the grate in a butter or substitute to prevent food from sticking, but that’s all that’s really needed. As such, grilling can be a healthier way to cook and prepare food

#5) Keeps Your Kitchen Clean

Let’s face it, one of the downsides to cooking food in the kitchen is the simple fact that it gets messy. You’ll have pans and utensils strewn all over the place — something that discourages many people from cooking in the first place. Grilling, on the other hand, keeps your kitchen a little cleaner.

These are just a few reasons why you should grill your own food. And with summer right around the corner, the weather is perfect for outdoor grilling.

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It’s frustrating when you finally get that damp wood lit, only for your campfire to go out in the middle of the night. While you can always stay up to stoke it and add more wood, most people prefer sleeping at night, especially after a long day of hiking. So, how can you keep your campfire burning through the night?

The 1/2-Inch Rule

What is the 1/2-inch rule? Basically, for every 1/2 inch of firewood, your campfire will burn for about an hour. If you have a 6-inch piece of firewood, you can expect it to burn for six hours. Or if you have an even larger 8-inch piece of firewood, it will burn for about eight hours. Of course, this is just a general rule, as some wood burns faster and others burn slower. With that said, you can still follow this rule to choose the right-sized firewood to keep your campfire burning through the night and well into the morning.

Tipi Campfire

For the purpose of heat retention, it’s recommended that you build a tipi-style campfire. As the name suggests, this type of campfire is characterized by its shape resembling that of a Native American tipi. Firewood is arranged in a standing cone-like design around a bundle of kindling and tinder. Once the inside kindling and tinder is lit, the heat rises to the exterior firewood. The tipi-style campfire is one of the easiest to build, and it’s also one of the most efficient.

Place Ash Over the Campfire

Another trick that can keep your campfire burning longer is to place ash over the top of it. Ash makes the wood burn more slowly, which should keep the campfire going for a little longer.  The only downside to this method is that you’ll need ash — and that requires a campfire.

Place Rocks Inside

Some outdoor enthusiasts recommend placing rocks inside the campfire. The general idea is to allow the rocks to absorb the heat, at which point it should keep your fire going a little longer. Rocks hold heat incredibly well, which is why people have used hot rocks them for therapeutic purposes for centuries.

These are just a few tips to keep your campfire burning through the night.

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Thinking about taking your fire pit camping? We have some tips to help you get the most use from it.

#1) Bring a Grate for Cooking

Assuming you plan to use your fire pit for cooking (which most campers do), it’s recommended that you bring a grill grate. Granted, you can cook over an open fire without a grate, but using one makes the process ten times easier. A basic metal grate turns your fire pit into a grill, allowing you to cook delicious foods more quickly and evenly.

#2) Consider the Size of Your Fire Pit

Fire pits are available in a wide range of sizes. For camping, though, it’s best to stick with a smaller and more portable fire pit. Large fire pits are typically too bulky and heavy to carry long distances, making them a poor choice for camping. This is particularly true when speaking about stone fire pits, which should not be used for camping.

#3) Bring a Tabletop

As most seasoned campers already know, a tabletop surface is a rare commodity in the wilderness. Unless you bring a foldout table, you’ll probably have to eat from your lap. However, you can bring a smaller and more portable fire pit tabletop for increased convenience. Once the fire is out and it has cooled off, you can place the tabletop over the fire pit. Not only is the perfect surface for eating, but you can also use it to play cards, read a book, write, etc.

#4) Don’t Forget the Matches (or Lighter)

Unless you plan on rubbing two sticks together, make sure you pack matches or a lighter. There’s nothing more frustrating than making your way to your campsite, only to discover that you forgot the matches. Double-check your gear before leaving, ensuring you have some tool to easily light your fire pit.

#5) Wait for it to Cool Off Before Loading

Last but not least, you should wait for your fire pit to cool off before attempting to load it into your car or vehicle. A fire pit can remain hot long after the fire goes out, so don’t assume it’s cool just because there’s no wood burning. Wait until the fire pit is cool to the touch before transporting it to avoid injury.

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Conventional wisdom should tell you that water and fire pits don’t mix. When a fire pit fills with water, it mixes with any leftover ash to create a sludge-like mess. Not only is this unattractive, but it can also make it difficult to start a fire. So, what steps can you take to keep your fire pit from filling with water?

Choose the Right Type of Fire Pit

If your fire pit is stationary (e.g. built into the ground), you may have trouble keeping rainwater out of it. On the other hand, if your fire pit is a S&S Fire Pit, you’ll have an easier time keeping it dry by simply placing on of our snuffers lids on the pit and as well we have a built in drain hole.

Cover it with a Tarp

You can protect your fire pit from rain by covering it with a tarp. You can use a special tarp designed for fire pits, or you can use one designed for grills. Either way, a heavy-duty tarp made of a strong synthetic material should protect your fire pit from the elements.

When using a tarp, however, you should wait until your fire pit has completely cooled off. Throwing a tarp over a recently lit fire pit may result in damage. The heat from the fire pit will literally melt the tarp, creating a large hole through water can flow. And when your tarp is melted, it’s not going to offer much protection from the rain or elements.

Store it Under a Covered Area

Of course, you can store it under a covered area. Whether it’s in the garage, basement, storage shed, etc., storing your fire pit under a covered area is a sure-fire way to protect it from water.

Again, it’s important to note that you should only store a fire pit under a covered area once it has fully cooled off. A fire pit can remain hot enough to reignite for up to 24 hours. To prevent property damage and injury, wait until your fire pit has cooled off before attempting to move it.

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What animal is responsible for more deaths than any other animal on this planet? It’s the mosquito. Although small in size, these blood-sucking pests carry a wide variety of infectious diseases, which is why it’s a good idea to keep them away from your campsite. The good news is that you can build an effective deterrent by using a campfire, and here’s how.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that smoke is a natural insect repellent. Most insects, including mosquitoes, prefer to avoid smoke, so building a campfire tends to work pretty well for this purpose. You don’t have to necessarily stand in the same direction in which the smoke is blowing, but rather stay around the campfire to keep mosquitoes and other bugs at bay.

Burn Citronella Leaves

If you really want to improve the pest-repellent power of your campfire, try burning some citronella leaves. You’ve probably seen (or used) citronella candles before. They are a popular type of outdoor candle due to their bug repellent properties. The tropical plant has natural oils that, when burned, turn into a pest repellent. And best of all, it’s completely safe so you don’t have to worry about toxic or otherwise harmful chemicals.

Create More Smoke

Although, we don’t like it, if you don’t have any citronella on hand, you can always increase the amount of smoke produced by your campfire to enhance its pest repellent properties. Adding more leaves and pine straw to your campfire, for instance, will make it produce more smoke, which in turn increases its ability to keep bugs at bay.

Choose Dry Campsites

When possible, try to choose a dry campsite with little-to-no standing pools of water. Mosquitoes thrive in moist environments, and just a small pool of standing water can result in their numbers multiplying at an increasingly fast rate. Look around to ensure the land and surrounding area is dry before pitching your camp.

Even if you follow these tips, you may still struggle to keep all mosquitoes away from your campsite. Bugs are just a part of camping, and it’s nearly impossible to avoid them altogether. However, these tips can certainly help to minimize the number of mosquitoes and other pests that you and your fellow campers encounter.

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So, you’re thinking about buying a fire pit? With the warm weather fast approaching, there’s no better time than the present to invest in a fire pit for your patio or outdoor living space. However, you’ll want to choose the right type of fire pit.

Portable

If you plan on moving your fire pit, which most people do at some point or another, you’ll want to choose a portable fire pit. Some fire pits are designed to be stationary, while others are 100% portable. Opting for a portable fire pit opens the doors to a whole new world of possibilities, allowing you to take it camping, tailgating, to parties, or pretty much wherever else you desire.

High-Quality Steel Construction

Of course, you should choose a fire pit of high-quality material, such as steel. Some of the cheaper fire pits on the market are made with low-quality materials that quickly break down and deteriorate. There’s nothing more frustrating than buying a fire pit, only to discover that it’s broken just a few weeks later. To avoid such problems, choose a fire pit of high-quality steel.

Size

Arguably, one of the most critical factors to consider when choosing a fire pit is the size. Fire pits are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from small to large. The 42″ Ellipcital, for instance, has a 42″ opening, making it large enough to build fires and cook meals over. If you plan on using it for tailgating, however, perhaps a smaller fire pit would work better. Consider when and how you’ll be using it, and choose an appropriately sized fire pit.

Style

A fire pit is more than just a safe container in which to build fires; it’s a decorative accessory. As such, you should choose a fire pit that flows cohesively with your outdoor decor.

Region of Manufacture

Where is the fire pit made? You can probably save a couple bucks by purchasing a fire pit from overseas, this is one instance in which the saying “you get what you pay for” holds true. These overseas fire pits are often made with cheap materials that don’t fare so well when compared to locally made fire pit. By purchasing a fire pit here at S&S Fire Pit, you can rest assured knowing that it’s made in the United States.

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When it comes to building campfires, the drier the wood, the better. If wood contains too much water, you may struggle to ignite it. And even if you do ignite it, it may produce an excessive amount of smoke with minimal fire.

Whether it’s a softwood or hardwood, wood is like a sponge. It constantly absorbs moisture from its surrounding environment. When it rains, wood absorbs the moisture vapor from the air, making the firewood difficult to burn. So, how do you build a fire with wet wood such as this?

Don’t Use Flammable Liquids

It’s recommended that you stay away from lighter fluid, gasoline or other flammable liquids when attempting to light wet firewood. While it may ease the process of lighting the wood, it also increases the risk of injury. The flammable liquid can spill in your backpack and seep through your clothes, or it may get accidentally knocked over into the fire. Either way, there’s simply too many things that can go wrong with using flammable liquids in a fire.

Gather Small Pieces of Wood

To begin, gather small pieces of wood from covered areas such as under tree canopies and against ridges. Smaller pieces are easier to light, and once you get that initial flame, you can add larger pieces.

Strip Away the Outer Layer

Because moisture typically only penetrates the outer layer of wood, you can strip it away to better prepare it for burning. Using a knife or hatchet, carefully strip away the outer layer from your wood, discarding it to the side. Next, place this newly stripped wood around some tinder and kindling and light the center. Without the wet exterior, it should ignite with relative ease, allowing you to enjoy the warmth of a campfire.

How Long Does it Take Wood to Dry?

Of course, you might be wondering how long it takes wet firewood to dry out and become more suitable for burning. Well, it depends on several factors, including the species of wood, size, surrounding humidity, and level of exposure to sunlight. With that said, it usually takes several months for wet firewood to completely dry out to the point where it’s “seasoned” and ideal for burning.

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There are numerous myths floating around about fire pits and how they work. Today, we’re going to debunk some of these common myths, shedding light on this popular outdoor living accessory.

Myth #1) You Can’t Move a Fire Pit

While it’s true that some fire pits are permanent, others are not. If you want to move your fire pit, it’s recommended that you choose a portable style. Portable fire pits open the doors to a whole new world of possibilities, allowing individuals to take it camping, tailgating, or simply move it to a new area on their patio or back deck.

Myth #2) Fire Pits are Strictly Aesthetic

There’s no denying the fact that a fire pit is a brilliant decorative accessory for outdoor living spaces, but they also offer functional benefits as well. Using your fire pit, you can grill burgers, roast marshmallows, or simply create warmth on an otherwise chilly evening.

Myth #3) Fire Pits Cost Thousands of Dollars

Again, some fire pits may certainly sell for thousands of dollars, but others are more budget-friendly. As you can see from shopping on our website, we offer high-quality portable fire pits (built here in the U.S.) at affordable prices. The 30-inch “Short Boy,” for instance, is currently available for just $325.

Myth #4) Maintaining a Fire Pit is Time-Consuming

This statement couldn’t be further from the truth. Maintaining a fire pit requires very little effort. After burning it, wait for the ash to cool, at which point you can dispose of it. You can then clean any lingering dust or dirt from the surface using a towel. You don’t have to worry about cleaning your fire pit with any special product or chemical.

Myth #5) Refueling a Fire Pit with Gas is Expensive

Owning a gas-fueled fire pit can take a toll on your wallet, but it’s important to note that not all fire pits use gas. Many burn wood as a source of fuel, and these are generally recommended for homeowners seeking an authentic fire pit experience. Wood is cheaper, safer and easier to use in a fire pit, making this type ideal for the average homeowner.

These are just a few of the most common myths surrounding fire pits and how they work.

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No camping experience is complete without a campfire. Ever since the early days of mankind, humans have created campfires to cook food, illuminate their surroundings, stay warm in cold weather, and for the relaxing social ambiance it creates. But if you plan on creating a campfire in the wild, you’ll need a few basic items to get started.

Lighter or Matches

Unless you plan on rubbing two sticks together, or using an alternative primitive firestarting method, you’ll want to bring either a lighter or matches when camping. Some people prefer lighters, while others prefer matches. Regardless, you’ll need one of these to start your campfire.

Firewood

Of course, also need firewood (and lots of it) to build a campfire in the wild. More specifically, you’ll need three types of wood: tinder, kindling and large pieces of firewood.

Tinder is the smallest type of natural fuel used in campfires. It can consist of bark, fatwood, pine needles and even grass. Kindling is larger than tinder though smaller than standard-sized firewood. Examples of kindling include sticks and small branches about the size of your index finger.

Campsite

Not every wooded location is suited for a campfire. When camping, check the park’s rules to determine where you can build campfires. Some parks have strict rules requiring campers to build campfires in specified areas. And in the dry season, all campfires may be prohibited to reduce the risk of a wild fire.

Other Items to Consider

• Grill grate. Assuming you want to cook over your campfire, you may also want to bring a grill grate. While you can always pierce food with a stick or skewer, a grill grate is easier and more versatile.
• Pitcher. What do you need a pitcher for? Well, before leaving your campsite, it’s recommended that you pour water over the campfire ashes to ensure they are fully extinguished. Ashes can remain hot enough to ignite grass and other dry material for up to 24 hours, which is why it’s a good idea to pour water over your campfire before leaving.
• Shovel. Using s shall shovel, you can create a more well-defined fire ring to help contain your campfire. You can also use a shovel to bury your ashes before leaving the campsite.

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With internal temperatures reaching up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, fire pits create more than enough heat to burn the skin. The good news is that burns are rare, especially safety precautions are taken. So, what steps can you take to prevent burns when using a fire a pit?

Don’t Touch the Outside of the Fire Pit

Never touch the outside of a fire pit while a fire is burning is inside. Most fire pits are made of steel, and while steel lacks the heat conductive properties of aluminum, brass and copper, it still transfers some heat. If you accidentally touch the outside of your fire pit while it’s being used, you could end up with a burn. The bottom line is that you should touch your fire pit until the inside has thoroughly cooled and is no longer hot.

Wear Heat-Resistant Gloves When Cooking

Another safety tip I’ve learned over the years is to wear heat-resistant gloves when cooking. This isn’t limited strictly to fire pits; this tip applies to all forms of outdoor cooking, including grills, open-flame campfires and more. When cooking outdoors, wearing a pair of heat-resistant gloves will allow you to move food on/off the grill without getting burned in the process.

Only Burn Wood

Avoid the temptation to burn leaves, trash, yard debris and other non-wood items. Fire pits are designed specifically for burning wood, and tossing other items into it could send fiery debris into the sky; thus, increasing the risk of burns. As long as you only burn wood in your fire pit, you’ll promote a safe environment while lowering the risk of injury.

Keep Your Distance

Standing only a few inches away from an active fire pit is a good way to get burned. Just turning your body the wrong way could result in a nasty burn, which is why it’s a good idea to get your distance.

Wait 24 Hours for Ash to Cool

Just because the fire has burned down to ash doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s cool. On the contrary, ash can remain hot enough to cause burns — or to spark another fire — for up to 24 hours. Therefore, you should wait until at least 24 hours after your fire has been extinguished before attempting to move the ash.

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Ask any seasoned camper and he or she will agree: food just taste better when you’re miles away from civilization. From basic snacks to full meals, there’s something special about eating when camping. With that said, there are several different ways to cook using a campfire, some of which we’re going to explore in today’s blog post.

Skewer on a Stick

One of the easiest ways to cook using a campfire is to skewer the food on a stick. Whether it’s marshmallows, steak medallions, vegetables, etc., most small-sized food can easily be skewered and cook over a campfire. And with the food on a stick, you can easily raise or lower the height to adjust its cooking temperature. The only real problem with this method is that it may or may not cook food evenly throughout.

Wrap in Foil

Another idea is to cook food over a campfire using aluminum foil. The aluminum foil acts as a protective barrier, keeping its contents clean and preventing it from burning. However, it still allows for the transfer of heat so the food will cook. Simply wrap your desired food in aluminum foil, after which you can place it either directly on the fire or on a grill grate. Because the food is contained in aluminum foil, you can cook smaller pieces than using the skewer-stick method mentioned above. You can also place the foil-wrapped food directly over the fire, allowing for a more even and thorough cooking.

Place on a Grill Grate

Of course, a third option — and probably the most popular — is to cook food on a grill grate over a campfire. You don’t have to necessarily bring an entire grill (although some campers do). Rather, bring a metal grille grate to place over your campfire. Once your campfire reaches a hot enough temperature, you can cook on the grate like a normal grill. The only downside is that your fire must be small enough so it doesn’t burn your food, which is a very real possibility when using a grill grate.

Many campers prefer this method because it leaves the distinct grill marks of a traditional grill. If you want to cook steaks, for instance, using a grill grate creates the characteristic lines.

Regardless of which method you choose, be sure to clean up afterwards.

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Wouldn’t it be great if there was an abundance of dry, perfectly-stacked firewood waiting for you in the woods of favorite campsite? Building a campfire is an essential part of camping. It provides warmth, light, cooking fuel, and a social-friendly place for campers to gather around. But you’ll need dry, not wet, firewood to build a campfire. If the ground is wet from rain or snow, you may have trouble locating dry firewood.

Search Under the Canopy

To begin your search for dry firewood, head for the forest canopy, paying close attention to the area around the base of trees where it’s sheltered by the canopy. Some rainfall will inevitably break through the canopy and hit the ground. Assuming the canopy is thick and dense, however, it should block out most of the rain, keeping any stray branches and firewood dry underneath.

Fallen Trunks

Many survivalists and wilderness experts also recommend looking for dry firewood around fallen trunks. When large trunks fall, they’ll often remain propped up against a nearby tree, protecting them from rot. You can easily harvest these trunks for use in your campfire. Just remember to look for snakes and other critters that could be lurking underneath.

Cut Dry Firewood Out of Wet Wood

Using nothing more than a knife, you can often harvest dry firewood from wet wood. Basically, this involves splitting a medium-sized piece of firewood down the middle and shaving off large, thin pieces of the dry material from the center. To split a piece of firewood, place the blade of your knife against one end and use a separate piece of wood to “hammer” it down. When done correctly, the wood should split, revealing the center. With the center exposed, you can shave dry pieces of wood for use in your campfire. These pieces will likely be small, however, so don’t expect to build a raging bonfire.

Bring it With You

Of course, you can always bring your own firewood from home instead. Assuming you aren’t hiking several miles into the deep wilderness, you can probably pack enough firewood for at least one night. And if you’re worried about it getting wet, place it a large waterproof plastic bag for added protection.

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No, you don’t have to rub two sticks together to build a fire without a match. An easier and more effective “primitive” fire-building solution involves the use of flint and steel.

Available for sale at most camping and outdoor sporting goods stores, people have been using flint and steel to build campfires for centuries. Striking flint against steel results in small pieces of steel being scraped off at high temperatures. These embers are then used to ignite kindling and tinder, after which you can begin adding larger pieces of wood to your fire.

Choosing the Right Flint and Steel

Don’t assume that all flint-and-steel combos are of equal quality. Some of the cheaper combos contain low-quality flint, which is harder to create hot embers from. The flint should have a sharp edge, which is used to strike against the steel, and it should be large enough to comfortably hold in your hand.

Also, it doesn’t necessarily have to be flint. Alternatives such as agate, jade, quartz, and chert are all excellent choices, assuming they have about a 7 or 9 on the Mohs hardness scale.

Building a Fire with Flint and Steel

After collecting a decent amount of kindling and tinder, it’s time to build your campfire using flint and steel. To begin, place some small kindling in a teepee shape, leaving the bottom open (this is where tinder is place once ignited). Gather up a small pile of tinder and place it over the top.  While holding the steel in one hand, strike the flint downwards onto the surface of the steel at a 30-degree angle. Ideally, you should use the sharp edge of the flint to peel small pieces off the steel. As the small pieces come off, they’ll land on the tinder, hopefully igniting it. And once the tinder is ignited, you should quickly pick it up and move it underneath  your pile of tinder. Congratulations, you’ve just a built a fire using flint and steel!

Of course, you’ll want to keep your flint and steel dry when camping. If either the flint or steel becomes wet, it may have trouble creating hot embers — hot enough to ignite your tinder and kindling. Some campers place their flint and steel in a sealed plastic bag to keep them dry.

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If you’re an avid outdoorsman who enjoys camping, you may have heard of a “leave no trace” campfire. Campfires are an essential part of camping. They provide warmth, light, heat for cooking, and even a social-friendly environment. So, what is a leave no trace campfire?

A leave no trace campfire isn’t a specific type of campfire. Rather, it refers to the way in which a campfire is created and managed. It follows the seven principles outlined by the nonprofit organization Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, which includes the following:

• Plan ahead and prepare
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces
• Dispose of waste properly
• Leave what you find
• Minimize campfire impacts
• Respect wildlife
• Be considerate of other visitors

The fundamental principle behind a leave no trace campfire is to, well, leave no trace. Campfires typically leave behind some evidence of a fire, such as ashes and leftover/unused firewood. If you want to create a leave no trace campfire, though, you should strive to eliminate evidence such as this. There are several ways to create a “minimum impact” fire, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.

A mound fire, for instance, is a type of campfire that’s built from a mount of mineral soil (soil containing mostly minerals instead of organic matter) over a fire blanket. Mound fires should be at least 6″ tall and 12-24″ long. After creating the mound of soil, you should form a depression in the center, which is where the actual fire will burn. Mineral soil can be collected from root bulbs.

An alternative to a mound fire is a fire pan. Although it looks like an ordinary frying pan, fire pans are used specifically for building fires. They are used to minimize impact of campfires on the ground, vegetation and environment. A fire pan allows for quick and easy burning, reducing firewood and paper waste to ash, which is contained atop the pan. To use a fire pan, you should place several rocks on the desired area so the heat doesn’t scorch the ground underneath. Next, place the firewood inside the pan and ignite. Fire pans are often preferred when camping because they can be picked up and transported. If you’re in a bind and don’t have access to an actual fire pan, however, you can always use a traditional cooking pan.

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Once you’ve made your way to the campsite and set up a tent, it’s time to begin collecting firewood. Getting some initial firewood now means you won’t have to try and find it when the sun goes down. But not all wood is suitable for use in a campfire. Some varieties burn more efficiently than others, which is why it’s important to familiarize yourself with the different types.

Avoid Wet Wood

The drier the wood, the hotter and more easily it burns. Therefore, you should avoid picking up wet or damp wood, and instead focus your efforts on wood that “snaps.” If it recently rained, you may have to search for some dry wood. Check under downed trees, against ridges, under debris, etc.

Oak Firewood

There are dozens of different tree varieties in North America, though one of the best for use in a campfire is oak. It’s highly dense, meaning it will burn for a long time once ignited. The only problem with oak is getting it lit. Because of its dense structure, it takes a really hot flame to ignite oak firewood. So, if you’re having trouble getting it lit, consider placing some less-dense firewood underneath and/or using more kindling. Once lit, oak will burn well into the night and possibly the morning.

Maple Firewood

Another excellent type of firewood for a campfire is maple. It’s classified as a deciduous hardwood species, and like oak, maple is also a dense and hot-burning wood. Maple also produces little smoke, making it an excellent choice for social settings such as bonfires where smoke can otherwise be a problem.

What About Rotted Firewood?

If the wood is rotted, it’s best to steer clear and choose different firewood for your campfire. Not only does it contain a higher moisture content, but it’s also less dense, meaning it won’t burn as long. Furthermore, rotted wood produces more smoke, which is something you should try to avoid.

Start Small…

When collecting firewood, pick up small twigs and branches to use when initially lighting your campfire. You can still use tinder and kindling, but you’ll probably need smaller pieces of actual firewood to get it going. But once the fire is going, you can add larger pieces of wood on top, which should keep it burning.

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A campfire provides campers with warmth, light, relaxation, and a place to safely cook food. Mankind has been building them for thousands of years, and even today there’s no substitution for a genuine fire. However, you might be surprised to learn some of the following facts about campfires.

Campfires Can Reach 930 Degrees Fahrenheit

While temperatures vary depending on many factors (e.g. type of wood, airflow, quantity of wood, how long it’s been burning, etc.), it’s not uncommon for a campfire to reach 930 degrees Fahrenheit. Due to its high heat, safety precautions should be taken around campfires to avoid injury.

There are Many Ways to Build Campfires

A campfire can be constructed in one of several ways, some of which include the tipi, lean-to, log cabin, hybrid, keyhole and many others. The tipi is a popular choice, as it’s easy to build and provides ample, consistent warmth. It’s created by piling the tinder in the middle with smaller kindling around it, similar to the poles of a tipi.

Coals Continue to Burn

Even if the wood from your campfire is no longer burning, the ash and coals may continue to burn — even if they are buried under dirt. The hot coals continue to smolder long after the fire goes out. And if they are near a tree root, they can ignite and spark a new fire.

The First Campfires Were Built 1.6 Million Years Ago

It’s unknown who was responsible for building the world’s first campfire. Historians, however, have found evidence indicating that early man built them around 1.6 million years. This evidence was found in the form of burned antelope bones in remote caves of South Africa.

You May or May Not be Allowed to Collect Firewood at Parks

Many national parks have rules regarding campfires. Most State Parks and National Parks allow campers to collect and use any firewood that’s lying on the ground. If the park has an erosion problem, however, it may prohibit the collection of firewood.

‘Fatwood’ Makes Excellent Kindling and Tinder

If you’re having trouble igniting a campfire with traditional firewood, perhaps you should look for fatwood. Also known as fat lighter, lighter wood and rich lighter, fatwood is derived from pine heartwood. Over time, the resin within pine becomes hard, making the wood resistant to rot and decay. It lights quickly and easily, even in wet and/or windy conditions. Fatwood also burns hot enough to ignite other, non-fatwood firewood that’s nearly.

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Looking for a new fire pit? Humans have used natural and man-made structures to contain their fires for centuries. Even today, fire pits remain one of the popular trends in outdoor living, according to a recent landscaping study. But there are a few things to consider when buying a fire pit.

Usage

You should consider when and how the fire pit will be used, as some models are better suited for certain applications than others. If you want to take your fire pit camping or tailgating, for instance, you should choose a portable style that’s easy to carry.

Material

What material or materials is the fire pit made of? Steel is an excellent choice given its unique combination of properties that simply aren’t found elsewhere. Steel fire pits are safe, lightweight, easy to clean, look great, strong/durable and radiate a significant amount of heat. Some homeowners prefer the look of stone fire pits, but unlike steel, stone is susceptible to damage such as cracking and chipping. Furthermore, stone fire pits weight significantly more than steel, are not portable and don’t put off much radiant heat.

Manufactured

Where was the fire pit manufactured? If it was manufactured overseas, it may contain toxins and dangerous materials. Furthermore, customers who encounter a problem with these overseas fire pit may struggle to get a response by the company. This is why it’s recommended to choose a fire pit made here in the United States, such as those offered by S&S Fire Pits.

Cooking

If you plan to cook on your fire pit, you should choose a model with a flat rectangular or square grilling grate. A great that covers the entire cooking surface means you have to lift the entire grate off of it when you need to add some fuel.  Using this type of fire pit, you can grill burgers, steaks, hot dogs, pork chops, chicken, vegetables or pretty much whatever else your heart stomach desires.

Style

Arguably, one of the most important things to consider when choosing a fire pit is the style. A good fire pit should posses a unique rustic appearance, enhancing your home’s exterior. Avoid cheap, run-of-the-mill fire pits and choose a stylish model instead.

Cost

Of course, you’ll probably want to consider the cost when shopping for a new fire pit. Some models can easily run you well over $1,000. Price, however, isn’t always an indication of quality. Here at S&S Fire Pit, we offer some of the finest-quality hand-crafted fire pits on the market, all for sale at affordable prices.

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Enjoyed by roughly 83% of the United States adult population, coffee is one of the world’s most popular beverages. But if you plan on going camping, you probably won’t have the luxury of using a slow-drip coffeemaker. Nonetheless, there are still ways to brew a delicious cup of Joe, which we’re going to explore in today’s blog post.

Percolator

Campers have been using percolators to make coffee for decades. Consisting of a tall pot with a small chamber for holding the ground beans, it’s a great way to make delicious coffee while camping.

To use a percolator, fill the main chamber with water and then place the coffee grounds into the small holding chamber. A good rule of thumb is to use roughly 1 tablespoon of coffee grounds per cup of water. If you’re making two cups of coffee, try using two tablespoons of coffee grounds. However, if you prefer stronger coffee with more “kick,” you can always add more.

After adding the water and ground coffee to your percolator, place it over your campfire and bring to a low boil. You can usually tell when it’s boiling by listening, as the water should create a “roaring” sound. Once the water comes to a boil, move the percolator off to the side where it’s exposed to less heat. Allow it to simmer under this low heat for 5-10 minutes, after which you can pour the coffee and enjoy!

French Press

Another method used to make coffee while camping involves a special pot known as a French press. It’s often preferred over the percolator because of its ability to brew large amounts of coffee.

To use a French press, place the ground coffee in the main chamber, add boiling water, and allow it to steep for 4-6 minutes. Next, gently press on the plunger so it pushes the ground coffee to the bottom. You can then serve and enjoy!

Instant Coffee

Of course, an alternative method is to use instant coffee. You can buy boxes/packets of “instant coffee” at most grocery stores and supermarkets. To use them, simply bring a pot of water to a boil, carefully pour a cup’s worth of boiling water into a mug, stir in the instant coffee, and enjoy! While easier, many people prefer the more authentic taste of coffee that’s been brewed more slowly.

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Did you know that campfires are one of the most common reasons for forest fires, as well as injury to campers? Whether you’re camping in the mountains, on the coast, in the forest or elsewhere, you’ll probably want to build a fire. Campfires offer more than just warmth and cooking fuel: they boost morale while promoting greater social interaction in the process. But if you plan on building a campfire, you should follow these tips to reduce the risk of injury.

Circle the Fire Pit with Rocks

If there are no existing fire rings available at your preferred campsite, create your own with a circle of small-to-mid-sized rocks. This helps to contain the fire, preventing it from escaping and igniting nearby trees and plants.

Don’t Wear Nylon

What’s wrong with wearing nylon clothes, accessories or gear when building a campfire? Well, this synthetic fabric is highly flammable, and exposure to a stray ember could set it ablaze. There have been countless cases of campers sustaining serious burns simply by wearing nylon near a fire. Only wear fitted, non-flammable clothing around a campfire.

Beware of Wind Direction

You should also consider wind direction when building campfires. Strong winds can send flaming-hot embers flying across the landscape, igniting nearby materials. A good rule of thumb is to build your campfire against a non-flammable wind block, such as a ridge. If the winds get too bad, you can rest assured knowing that your campfire is safely contained and won’t spark a wildfire.

Don’t Touch Hot Embers

I know this probably sounds like common sense, but it’s still worth mentioning that you should never touch hot embers. Even if the embers “look” cool, they could still be holding more than enough heat to leave serious burns. Before leaving your campsite, pour a small amount of water over the embers to safely extinguish them.

Avoid Cedar and Pine

Don’t burn cedar, pine or other non-soft wood in your campfire. These woods are more likely to pop, which could send a hot ember shooting towards you or other campers. Choose dry hardwood to burn in your campfire. And when adding it to your campfire, gently place it on top. Throwing firewood into a burning campfire could result in injury, as embers may shoot up into the air.

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Fire pits require some type of fuel to operate, with the most common sources of fuel being liquid propane or wood. Assuming you choose the latter, you should follow the tips outlined below.

Don’t Burn Lumber or Pressure-Treated Wood

It’s important to burn the right type of wood in your fire pit. A good rule of thumb is to only burn dry, native firewood in your fire pit. Avoid burning pressure-treated wood or lumber, which often contains harsh and otherwise dangerous chemicals. Even if a piece of wood “looks” natural, it may contain chemicals to discourage rot — chemicals that are released into the environment when burned. The bottom line is that you should only burn dry, natural firewood in your fire pit.

Safely Dispose of Ashes

Ashes can retain enough heat to ignite paper, grass, and other flammable materials well over 24 hours after the fire has gone out. So even if your fire pit looks and feels cool, the ashes could pose a serious fire hazard. To reduce the risk of a fire, wait until your ashes have completely cooled before dumping them. And when you’re ready to dump them, dump the ashes in a metal bucket and NOT the trash can.

Cover it

Try to get into the habit of covering your fire pit when it’s not being used. Leaving your fire pit exposed to the elements may cause rain to fill inside, which can mix with your ashes to create a mess. This shouldn’t cause any lasting damage, but it’s still something that most consumers want to avoid. Covering your fire pit prevents this from happening while keeping it nice and dry.

Choose a Safe Location

When choosing a location for your fire pit, make sure it’s away from your house, trees, overhanging branches, and other flammable materials. And don’t leave your fire pit burning unattended.

…Or Use Ashes for Other Purposes

Instead of disposing of your fire pit’s ashes, you may want to use them for other purposes. We talk about common uses for fire pit ashes in a previous blog post, which includes odor eliminator, stain remover, garden compost, insect repellent, wine sediment remover, and more. Whether you plan on using it for one of these purposes or not, though, make sure the ashes are cool before moving them.

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Whether you live in Pennsylvania or not, you can enjoy a delicious Pittsburgh-style steak grilled on your backyard fire pit.

The term “Pittsburgh-style” refers to a specific grilling method in which the outside of the steak is charred while the inside remains rare or medium-rare.

The outside is exposed to a hot flame, essentially searing it without cooking up the inside.

A Little Bit About Pittsburgh-Style Steaks…

What’s the big deal surrounding Pittsburgh steaks? Well, let’s first take a few steps back to reveal the characteristics of this steak.

It’s unknown who exactly invented the Pittsburgh-style steak, although reports indicate that it originated out of the steel mills in the city from which it was named.

Mill workers needed a filling, high-calorie meal, but they typically only had half-an-hour for lunch.

Being that they had access to blast furnaces, however, they came up with the idea of searing the steak on the outside while leaving the inside rare.

A Pittsburgh-style steak can be cooked in many different ways.

Back then, they were cooked on blast furnaces, which reach temperatures of more than 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

Today, however, most people prefer to cook their Pittsburgh-style steaks on a traditional open-flame grill.

This offers a delicious smokey flavor, along with the high heat needed for this unique cooking method.

Pittsburgh-style steaks are particularly delicious because of their juiciness. By searing the outside, it locks in the steak’s juices. So when you sit down at the table and cut into your steak, you’ll be treated with an ultra-juicy steak that’s loaded with flavor.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Pittsburgh-Style Steak

• Season the outside of the steak heavily with your preferred blackening seasoning. This not only provides more flavor, but it also helps to sear the outside.
• Get your fire pit or grill as HOT as possible by using a decent amount of firewood.
• Wait at least 7-10 minutes before placing the steak on the grill, as this heats up the grate.
• Place your steak on the hottest part of the grill, which is usually the very center.
• A good rule of thumb is to cook a 1-inch-thick steak for roughly 3-4 minutes per side for Pittsburgh-style.
• After cooking your steak, remove it from the grill and let it sit for 2 minutes before consuming. This allows the juice to settle, creating even more flavor.
• Now fire up your S&S Fire pit, grab some steaks (I’m going to suggest Pittsburgh style) and enjoy!

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Wouldn’t it be great if you had clear and sunny skies every time you went camping? Sure it would! But unfortunately mother nature doesn’t always go this way. While rainfall varies from state to state, most regions in the United States receive “measurable precipitation” 155 days per year.

It’s hard to fully enjoy a camping trip when it rains. The rainfall can force you campers to stay in their tents while putting out their campfires in the process. There’s no way to control mother nature, but you can follow some simple steps when building and maintaining your campfire to keep it burning in the rain. Here’s how you do it.

Choose the Right Location

Building a rainproof campfire begins with choosing the right location. Ideally, you should build your campfire in a location that’s guarded from the rain. The base of an overhanging ridge, for instance, is an excellent choice. The ridge should shield some, if not all, of the rain from reaching your campfire. The ground should also be dry or semi-dry.

Of course, this isn’t always an option. If you are camping in a state park or wildlife refuge, there may be laws requiring campers to build fires in existing fire rings. If you are unable to build a campfire in a “dry” location, create a cover over the campfire using wood and branches. Just remember to build this cover high enough so it doesn’t catch flame.

Sparking the Fire

Getting a campfire started in the rain an be tedious and time-consuming process. If you have a dry area, however, you should be able to start it with relative ease using dry kindling and tinder. Pocket lint, for instance, will ignite in no time at all.

Collect Dry Fuel

You’ll also need plenty of dry fuel to keep your campfire going in the rain. This is where many campers mess up, as they struggle to find adequate fuel for their fire. Tree bark, particularly that from birch trees, is an excellent source of fuel. It contains natural oils that repel moisture, so it may burn even if it’s semi-moist.

You can strip wood from other types of trees to use in your campfire as well. If the bark is saturated with moisture, use a knife to strip a thin layer from the outside and always keep a tarp over your wood to help keep it dry.

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There’s nothing that compares to the smokey taste of a grilled steak or burger. Sure, you can always cook meats such as these on your stove, but it doesn’t have the same rich flavor achieved by grilling. This is one of the reasons why so many home chefs prefer grilling. But if you plan on grilling, you’ll need to clean the grate on a regular basis.

Burn it off

There are several ways to clean a grill grate, although one of the easiest is to simply burn off the remaining food and debris. Create a hot bed of coals and close the lid to your fire pit or grill. After 15-20 minutes, most of the food should have burned off.

Place it in the Oven

Some sources recommend cleaning grill grates by placing them in the oven. Assuming your oven has a “self-cleaning” mode, you could remove the grate and place it inside the oven using this setting. The high heat should make easy work of even the most stubborn food and debris. Keep in mind, however, that self-cleaning ovens can take between 1.5 to 4 hours to complete, during which you won’t be able to open or use the oven.

Cover with Aluminum Foil

Another idea is to cover your grate with aluminum foil and then burn off the food and debris. The aluminum foil works by magnifying the heat, making the cleaning process just a little easier. Just 10-15 minutes of high heat with the grate covered in aluminum foil should clean it.

Brush it and Oil it

If you have a high-quality steel grate, you can probably clean it using nothing more than a wire grill brush. Of course, it’s a good idea to heat up the grate beforehand, after which you can brush the surface to remove any food or debris and oil it with any kind of cooking oil.

Grill Maintenance

Cleaning your grill grate is only half the battle. Unless you follow some basic maintenance and care tips, you’ll find yourself brushing and scraping it after each use. The golden rule of grilling is to never place anything inorganic on the grill. This includes, but is not limited to, plastic, styrofoam, and chemicals used to pressure treat wood. These items can stick to your grate, making it difficult to clean. And to make matters worse, many inorganic items release toxic fumes when burned.

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You typically need three things when building a fire: tinder, kindling, and fuel. Of course, fuel is the material being burned to produce the fire, which is usually timber in varying sizes. So, what is tinder and kindling?

Tinder is the smallest of the three aforementioned materials, and it’s used to initially start the fire. Good tinder should light easy, create a strong but short-lived flame, and be thinner than your finger (fat tinder is hard to burn). Examples include birch bark, fatwood, dry pine needles and grass. However, cotton balls are another excellent source of tinder, as they engulf into a large flame once lit.

The key thing to remember when choosing tinder is that it should be easy to light. This is the material that you’ll attempt to light directly when starting your fire. If the tinder is too big, moist, or simply not burnable, you’ll have a hard time getting your fire going. When lighting tinder, you should gently blow on the flame so it spreads more easily. Blowing on the lit tinder provides it with oxygen while also distributing the embers throughout the fire.

Kindling is similar to tinder but differs in several ways. While tinder is the smallest of the three materials, kindling is slightly larger. It refers to any ignitable material that’s larger than tinder but smaller than firewood. Most people use small sticks for kindling, which ignite more quickly than the firewood and burn for longer than the tinder.

There are dozens of ways to build a campfire, including the tipi style, lean-to, log cabin, log cabin, etc. Regardless of which method you choose, though, it’s usually a good idea to build your fire by placing the tinder in the center and kindling stacked over it. When you light the tinder, the heat will rise up to the kindling, igniting it while subsequently creating enough heat to ignite the main firewood.

Hopefully, this gives you a better understanding of the difference between tinder and kindling. Tinder is small, loose material that burns fast and easily, whereas kindling is small sticks that burns more slowly. There’s no rule stating that you must use them all when building a fire, but doing so will certainly make the process easier. Refer to this blog post the next time you build a fire for tinder and kindling tips.

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A fire pit is the perfect accessory for a residential outdoor living space. It offers both functional and aesthetic benefits, allowing homeowners to enjoy the outdoors. But if this is your first time owning a fire pit, there are a few things you should know. Check out the following beginner’s tips to get the most use of out your fire pit.

Cover it

When your fire pit isn’t being used,  cover it with a steel snuffer lid and keep the ashes cleared.  This will allow rainwater to drain if your fire pit has a proper drain hole.  Furthermore, rainwater can turn your fire pit ashes into a sludge-like mess that’s difficult to clean. Problems such as these are easily avoided, however, by covering your fire pit when it’s not being used.

The 10-Foot Rule

A good rule of thumb is to place your fire pit at least 10 feet away from anything flammable, including your home, shed, overhanging branches, bushes, etc. This reduces the risk of a stray ember floating away and sparking a fire. Even so, you should never leave a fire pit (or any fire for that matter) burning while unattended.

Encourage Airflow

When arranging your firewood in a fire pit, don’t pile it in a single clump. Rather, arrange the firewood so there’s space in between the wood. This allows air to flow more easily through the fire wood, which in turn encourages a hotter, brighter-burning fire.

Burn Only Natural Firewood

Don’t try to burn yard debris, old furniture, or pressure-treated lumber. Instead, you should only burn natural firewood in your fire pit. Other forms of wood that seem okay may contain toxic chemicals that when burned, are released into the air.

Clean the Grill Grate

If you use your fire pit to cook, which you probably will, you should get into the habit of cleaning and oiling the grate on a regular basis. When food particles harden on the grate, some of this debris can transfer to your food. Furthermore, this harden food provides an ideal environment for rust and corrosion. To prevent this from happening, use a wire brush to clean your fire pit’s grill grate, preferably after each use. Some people prefer to clean the grate after cooking on their fire pit, as the grate is still warm; thus, it’s easier to clean.

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A portable fire pit is a smart investment that offers countless years of enjoyment. It turns your patio or outdoor living area into a fun-filled social environment. But if you’re thinking of buying a fire pit, you should follow these safety tips to prevent injury and property damage.

Don’t Use Lighter Fluid or Gasoline

Sure, it’s probably easier to light (or relight) a fire pit using flammable liquid, but doing so could result in serious injury. Stick with good ol’ fashioned firewood when lighting your fire pit. If you’re having trouble lighting it, place some tinder and kindling underneath the larger pieces.

Don’t Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing

You should also avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing while using a fire pit. A baggy shirt or jacket sleeve, for instance, could hang over the fire, just enough to ignite and catch fire.

Burn Only Firewood

I know this probably sounds like common sense, but you would be surprised to learn what some people burn in their fire pits — from grass clippings and invasive weeds to trash and pieces of old furniture. While burning stuff such as this may seem harmless enough, it increases the risk of injury and property damage due to the lightweight embers. Furthermore, some items like pressure-treated wood could emit toxic chemicals when burned. The bottom line is that you should only burn natural, untreated firewood in your fire pit.

Place Fire Pit on Flat, Even Surface

When choosing a location for your fire pit, make sure the ground is flat and even. If it’s sloped, the fire pit will top more easily, spilling the ignited embers and potentially causing a property fire.

Don’t Leave Fire Pit Unattended

Whether you’re grilling burgers with friends, roasting marshmallows, or just gathering around the patio, you should never a leave a fire pit burning unattended. Of course, this rule isn’t limited strictly to fire pits; it applies to all fires.

Don’t Dump Hot Ash

Even after all of the firewood has been reduced to ash, it may still be hot enough to ignite a fire. This is why it’s a good idea to wait until your fire pit has completely cooled off before dumping the ash. And don’t just toss the ash in your trash can. Dump them in a metal ash bucket.

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There’s nothing quite like the taste of a home-cooked steak. Whether it’s tenderloins, sirloins, rib-eyes or New York strips, grilled steaks are always a hit at outdoor parties. But there’s one thing you need to be aware of when grilling steaks: keeping the meat from sticking to the grill.

While this doesn’t always happen, steaks, chicken, pork chops and other meat may stick to the grill. When you attempt to pull it off, the seasoned and charred exterior separates from the meat, releasing its juices. So, how do you prevent this from happening?

Clean the Grill Grate

You can often prevent stuck meat by cleaning your grill grate on a regular basis. When food particles harden on the grate, they may stick to the meat the next time you cook. To clean the grate, wait until your grill has warmed up and scrub it down with a wire grill brush. This should make easy work of even the toughest food particles, leaving your grill nice and clean.

Apply Oil

In addition to maintaining a clean grill grate, you can also prevent stuck food by rubbing a small amount of oil on it. Before placing your steaks on the grill, brush a generous amount of olive oil or vegetable oil on the grate. Some people prefer traditional vegetable oil, while others prefer the more nutritious olive oil. Regardless, any type of cooking oil should suffice for this purpose. Applying it the grate creates a barrier between the steaks and the grill, preventing them from sticking.

Non-Stick Spray

Alternatively, you can always use a non-stick spray to keep your steaks from sticking to the grill, such as PAM. They typically contain vegetable oil, but offer the added benefit of convenience since they are in a spray bottle. Keep in mind, however, that you should only use non-stick sprays before lighting your grill, while the grill is still cold. Many non-stick sprays are flammable, and using them on a hot grill could turn an otherwise enjoyable backyard barbecue into a fire hazard.

Aluminum Foil

A fourth option is to place your steaks on a piece of aluminum foil, after which you can place them on the grill grate. Meat doesn’t stick to aluminum foil like it does a grill. The only problem with this method, however, is that it lacks the distinct smokey/charred flavor as grilling your steaks directly on the grate.

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Outdoor fires have become a common trend among homeowners. While some homeowners build fires for the sole purpose of burning leaves and yard debris, others build them for style, warmth, and the relaxing ambiance they provide. There are several different options when creating outdoor fires, with two of the most popular being fire pits and chimineas. However, it’s usually best to choose a fire pit instead of the latter, and here’s why.

Longevity

A well-made fire pit can offer countless years of use, without degrading. The same can’t be said for chimineas, which often break after just a few years. The problem with chimineas is their material of construction. Traditionally, chimineas are made of clay, making them susceptible to cracking and breaking. Being that fire pits are made of stronger materials, such as steel, they last significantly longer than their counterpart.

Warmth Radiance

As you can see in the photo, chimineas radiate heat in a single direction. In comparison, fire pits radiate heat in a full 360 degrees. Whether you’re sitting in front, behind or to the side of a fire pit, you’ll feel the same level of warmth as everyone else. So if you’re building a fire to keep you and your guests warm this winter, you should stick with a fire pit.

Height

Chimineas are tall, much taller than fire pits. This can limit its use in certain areas such as covered patios and porches. And even if the chiminea “fits,” it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s safe to use here. You have to consider the heat being released from the top of the chiminea and how close it to the covered structure. If you’re looking to build a fire under a covered area, choose a fire pit to reduce the risk of property damage.

Portable

Another reason why fire pits are better than chimineas is because they are portable. Granted, there are some stationary fire pits available, but S&S Fire Pits are completely portable. You can pack them to take camping, tailgating, or even to a friend’s house. Just remember to completely extinguish the flames and wait for the fire pit to cool off before loading it. You cannot do the same with chiminea — not easily at least. These are just a few reasons why fire pits are better than chimineas.

Photo credit: Dave Robinson

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Just because the temperature has dropped doesn’t necessarily mean you have to take your parties indoors. On the contrary, many homeowners prefer the winter season for outdoor parties because of the cool temperatures and mild weather. But there are a few things you should know when planning a party during this time of year.

Check the Weather

You should always check the weather when planning an outdoor party, scheduling it for a clear day when possible. There’s no faster way to ruin a party than with rain. Sure, you can always set up umbrellas or have your party under a covered patio or deck, but this isn’t exactly enjoyable when it’s cold outside.

Climate Control

Even if the local weather calls for clear skies, you should still provide warmth for your guests when hosting an outdoor party. Thankfully, there are several ways to control the climate in your outdoor living space, some of which include portable patio heaters, a fire pit, or even enclosures.

Stay Active

You should also plan your outdoor winter party with activities. Whether it’s horseshoe toss, charades, or simply tossing the football around, activities such as these will help guests stay warm and comfortable. Furthermore, activities offer a form of entertainment, which is paramount when hosting a party.

Grill Foods

There’s no better opportunity to grill delicious home-cooked meals than an outdoor party. Some ideas to consider for your party include burgers, hot dogs, steaks, chicken kebabs and pork chops. Best of all, you don’t even need an actual charcoal or gas grill to cook them. As long as you have a fire pit set up, you can grill delicious foods with the same distinct smokey flavor created by a grill.

Provide Lighting

If you plan on hosting your party during the evening — or into the evening — you should set up adequate lighting throughout the space. String lights have become a popular choice for outdoor lighting, as it offers both aesthetic and functional benefits. String lights can be ran across patios and other structures, allowing for an innovative and unique lighting solution. Another idea is to use tiki torches. Not only will they illuminate your outdoor living space, but they also provide warmth and a relaxing ambiance. Some tiki torches even have bug-repellent chemicals added to them, which are helpful for keeping mosquitoes away.

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#1) Eliminate Bad Odors

Whether it’s in the kitchen or bathroom, you can use ashes to eliminate bad odors. Place the ashes inside an open-top container, such as an empty coffee container, and place it inside the space that you wish to deodorize. The Ashes will attract and absorb odor-causing germs, leaving the area smelling nice and clean.

#2) Stain Remover

Wood ashes can also be used to remove stains on clothes. When you discover a stain, place a small amount of ash directly on the affected area and gently rub it using a piece of bread.

#3) Lye Water

You can make lye water using ash. Place a couple spoonfuls of ash in a small-to-medium-sized pot and bring to a boil. After allowing it to boil for a few minutes, filter the contents through a coffee filter. The remaining water contains lye, which is great for cleaning floors, counter tops, stone, or just about anything else!

#4) Plant Fertilizer

Being that it’s organic and loaded with rich minerals, wood ash makes an excellent plant fertilizer. Simply sprinkle it directly over your garden, or mix it in with potting soil.

#5) Compost

I guess you could say this goes hand-in-hand with plant fertilizer. Nonetheless, you can add wood ash to a compost bin for an added kick of nutrients.

 #6) Insect Repellent

Struggling to keep those pesky insects out of your basement? Try sprinkling some wood ashes around the perimeter. The general idea is to create a barrier of ashes. Most insects won’t travel over ash, so as long as you have a perimeter set up, it should keep your basement pest-free.

#7) Protects Plants from the Cold

As any green thumb already knows, cold snaps can easily kill plants. One way to protect plants from freezing temperatures is to apply mulch around them. An alternative solution, however, is to apply wood ashes around the base. It works in a similar manner as mulch, insulating your plants and protecting them from the cold weather.

#8) Melts Ice

The next time you wake and discover your driveway is coated with ice, try sprinkling some ash over it. Ash has the ability to melt ice because of its high salt content.

#9) Extinguish Fire

While it’s no substitution for an actual fire extinguisher, ash can be used to put out small fires.

#10) Filters Wine Sediments

You can filter wine through ash to remove sediments.

If you have any questions regarding how an S&S Fire Pit can enhance your outdoor living space; We can help.  https://ssfirepits.com/contact/

 

There’s nothing that compares to the relaxing, mesmerizing ambiance of an outdoor fire. Whether you are camping deep in the forest or simply enjoying a peaceful evening on your patio, a fire is guaranteed to enhance your experience. But it’s difficult to enjoy a fire when thick smoke is blowing in your face. While there’s no way to fully prevent this from happening, there are ways to minimize smoke produced by a fire.

Use Dry Firewood

If you want to reduce smoke created by your fire, burn only dry firewood. We recommend kiln dried wood.  All firewood has at least some moisture — and that’s okay. But if the wood is particularly damp, it will produce more smoke upon burning. This is why it’s a good idea to store your firewood in a shed or covered area where it’s protected from rain.

Avoid Green Wood

You can also minimize smoke production by avoiding green wood in your fires. The term “green wood” is somewhat confusing, however, as it doesn’t necessarily refer to wood that’s green in color. Rather, green wood is any type of wood that has been recently cut. When wood is first cut, it typically contains more moisture; thus, increasing its smoke. Allowing your wood to sit and season prevents this from happening, as the internal moisture evaporates into the air or purchase kiln dried firewood.

Don’t Burn Debris

Don’t toss leaves, grass clippings, pine straw or other debris into your fire, as this may encourage it to produce more smoke. Stick with good ‘ol fashioned locally sourced firewood for your fires.

Allow Airflow

Another helpful tip to reduce campfire smoke is to arrange your firewood so it encourages greater airflow. This allows for more complete combustion, which subsequently reduces smoke. Fire needs three things to burn: oxygen, heat and fuel. And increasing the oxygen in your campfire makes it burn hotter and more complete. You can encourage greater airflow by building your campfire with kindling at the bottom in a teepee-like shape, and arranging firewood in a square shape around the kindling, what we call the Lincoln log style.

Of course, these tips aren’t limited strictly to campfires; they also work for fire pits. Remember, though, all fires will produce at least some smoke. It’s impossible to stop a fire from smoking altogether, but using the techniques listed above should keep it to a minimum.

If you have any questions regarding how an S&S Fire Pit can enhance your outdoor living space; We can help.  https://ssfirepits.com/contact/

More and more homeowners are designing their outdoor living spaces with permeable pavers. As the name suggests, these pavers are characterized by a “permeable” base and subbase through which water flows. Permeable pavers are common used in parking lots, emergency access lanes, and residential sideways and driveways. So if you’re looking to renovate your home’s exterior, perhaps you should consider permeable pavers. Just take a look at some of the many benefits it offers.

Reduces Rainwater Runoff

If you notice pools of stagnant water around your home or landscape after it rains, perhaps you should invest in permeable pavers. Stagnant water such as this can cause serious damage to both your landscape and home. It erodes the soil and ground, while also soaking into the ground and making its way into the basement or crawlspace. Once the moisture reaches the inside of your home, it promotes the growth of mold and mildew — something that no homeowner wants to discover in his or her home. But permeable pavers protect against this phenomenon by managing runoff from paved surfaces.

Filters Pollutants

Although it looks clean, runoff water often contains a slew of pollutants and harmful chemicals. Thankfully, though, permeable pavers can help by filtering these pollutants before the water soaks into the ground. The permeable surface allows moisture to seep through while filtering harsh chemicals and pollutants in the process. Of course, this is one of the reasons why permeable pavers are considered Eco-friendly.

Aesthetics

Let’s face it, permeable pavers look great when used in outdoor home design. As shown in the photo above, they typically consist of a patterned brick or stone design, separated by spacers through which water flows.

Natural Irrigation

There’s also the benefit of natural irrigation offered by permeable pavers. While they effectively filter pollutants and suspend solids, water may still pass through the base and enter the underlying soil, hydrating the ground while promoting healthier plant and tree growth. The natural irrigation offered by permeable pavers further reduces the need for sprinklers and other landscape watering systems. So while it may require an initial upfront monetary investment, permeable pavers will pay off in the form of a lower monthly water bill.

These are just a few of the many benefits associated with permeable pavers.

Photo credit: Gardening Solutions

If you have any questions regarding how an S&S Fire Pit can enhance your outdoor living space; We can help.  https://ssfirepits.com/contact/

The average homeowner uses roughly 320 gallons of water per day, 30% of which is used on lawns and for other outdoor applications, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This often results in high water bills during the dry summer months, especially for homeowners with large gardens and lawns. Being that grass and plant life needs water, though, you can’t necessarily turn it off. However, you could potentially save money by collecting and reusing rainwater — a trend that’s become increasingly popular among homeowners.

Rainwater Harvesting Ranked as #1 Outdoor Design Trend

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) recently released the findings from its annual  survey on outdoor design trends. Each year, the ASLA surveys residential homeowners throughout the country, asking them for their thoughts and opinions regarding outdoor design trends. According to the survey, rainwater is the single most popular outdoor design trend for 2016, followed by native plants, drought-tolerant plants, low-maintenance landscaping, permeable paving, and fire pits/fireplaces.

In comparison, rainwater harvesting was ranked #10 in last year’s survey.

There are several advantages to collecting and reusing rainwater, one of which is the cost-savings it provides. Instead of paying for municipal water, you can use rainwater. As noted by ASLA CEO Nancy Somerville, rainwater collection systems are also a part of sustainable landscape architecture, which is another reason why so many homeowners are installing them.

“Water issues are hot topics for many communities, and many people are turning to landscape architects for creative green infrastructure solutions,” said Nancy Somerville, CEO of ASLA. “Sustainable residential landscape architecture, if part of a broader integrated site design, can dramatically reduce water usage and stormwater runoff over the long term while creating a healthy residential environment.”

Is it Legal?

This is a question that many homeowners ask. Before starting any major home improvement project, including a rainwater harvesting system, you should check to see if it’s legal in your respective state and county. Most states have at least some laws governing this practice. In Oregon, for instance, homeowners are allowed to collect and reuse rainwater, but only if it’s collected from their roof. Rhode Island, however, now only allows rainwater harvesting, but also encourages it by offering a tax credit. Residential homeowners in Rhode Island can receive a tax credit of 10% of the cost of the rainwater collection system, with a maximum credit up to $1,000.

Photo credit: Tai

If you have any questions regarding how an S&S Fire Pit can enhance your outdoor living space; We can help.  https://ssfirepits.com/contact/

Decks are popular additions to residential homes, creating the perfect outdoor living space. However, homeowners should follow some basic steps to maintain a safe environment on their deck.

Inspect the Handrails

It’s a good idea to inspect your deck’s handrails on a regular basis, making sure they are stable and secure. If a handrail is loose, it may not be able to support a person’s weight, in which case you should avoid using your deck until it’s fixed. Keep in mind that most states and local jurisdictions have strict building codes requiring handrails on all elevated decks.

Protruding Nails

Of course, you should also inspect your deck for protruding nails. If you recently had work done it, perhaps the contractor left behind some nails sticking through. Even if they in otherwise inconspicuous areas, a sharp nail point can cause serious injury.

Rot and Decay

Is there are areas of your deck that are rotten? When wood isn’t properly sealed and treated, moisture may seep into its pores, causing it to decay. Unfortunately, there’s no easy way to fix a rotten deck, other than removing and replacing the areas of decayed wood. But if you don’t do it now, the problem will only become worse and eventually jeopardize the structural integrity of your deck.

Shaking

Something else to consider when inspecting your deck is whether or not it shakes. Conventional wisdom should tell you that decks are NOT supposed to shake. If it does, it’s usually a sign of some underlying structural problem. Problems such as these should be fixed ASAP to reduce the risk of injury, as it a shaky deck could collapse when stressed by normal usage.

Are Fire Pits Safe to Use on a Wooden Deck?

This is a question that many homeowners ask, fearing a fire pit could ignite or otherwise damage their deck. The short answer is yes, you can safely place and use a fire pit on a wooden deck, assuming there’s some type of barrier between it and the deck. While the burning point of wood is around 450 degrees Fahrenheit, the bottom of a fire pit shouldn’t come close to reaching this point. However, it’s still best to err on the side of caution by placing your fire pin on either a flame-retardant mat or pavers first.

If you have any questions regarding how an S&S Fire Pit can enhance your outdoor living space; We can help.  https://ssfirepits.com/contact/

It’s hard to fully enjoy a patio or outdoor living space when the temperature drops. The uncomfortably chilly winter weather often forces homeowners back indoors. But there are several ways to stay warm on your patio, regardless of the season. Just check out some of the following solutions to keep warm outdoors.

Patio Heater

You might be surprised to learn that there portable heaters designed specifically for outdoor use. Known as “patio heaters,” they typically use either electricity or liquid propane to radiate heat. Electric-powered models are often preferred because of their ease of use and safety. Some of the smaller ones can be placed on tables, while larger ones are free-standing.

Enclosure

Of course, you can also stay warm by having your patio enclosed. Enclosing your patio with a transparent film, for instance, creates a greenhouse effect. The sun’s thermal heat becomes trapped inside your patio, keeping it nice and toasty. Granted, an enclosure alone isn’t enough to fend off bone-chilling winter temperatures, but when used in conjunction with other heating solutions, it can certainly help.

Fire Pit

We can’t talk about ways to stay warm on a patio without mentioning a fire pit. Fire pits produce around 50,000 to 100,000 BTUs of heat, which is pretty impressive to say the least. And furthermore, they only require wood as fuel, not liquid propane nor electricity. This make them an excellent choice for homeowners who are looking for a simple yet effective way to stay warm on their patio.

Of course, fire pits can be used for other purposes as well. You can grill steaks, smoke meat, roast marshmallows and more.

Heated Blankets

There’s always the option of wrapping a heated blanket around your body. Heated blankets typically contain wires through which electricity runs and heats. As the electricity flows through the wire, it heats the outer fabric.

Heated Floors

A relatively new trend in outdoor living is heated floors. Although somewhat pricey, especially when compared to the other heating solutions listed above, heated floors are a luxurious addition that allows homeowners to enjoy their patio late into the winter season. Much like a heated blanket, they contain hidden wires that warms the exterior material. Heated floors can even help with snow removal, as the warmth melts snow.

Photo credit: Alison H

If you have any questions regarding how an S&S Fire Pit can enhance your outdoor living space; We can help.  https://ssfirepits.com/contact/