Having a fire pit in your backyard can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with family and friends. But to really get comfortable around the fire, you need the right kind of seating. The best chairs for fire pits are those that can withstand the heat of the fire, provide comfort for long periods of sitting, and fit the style and ambiance you want to create. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover the pros and cons of different fire pit chair materials, features to look for, and the best styles of outdoor chairs to use with your fire pit.
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Types of Materials Used for Fire Pit Chairs
When exposed to direct or radiant heat from the flames, some materials hold up better than others over time. Here are the most common options for fire pit seating and the advantages of each:
Metal
Metal fire pit chairs like aluminum and wrought iron are very durable against fire exposure. Wrought iron is heavier but rust resistant, while aluminum is lightweight, won’t rust, and often less expensive. The open or mesh construction prevents trapping heat underneath. Downsides are metal conducts heat, can get very hot in direct fire, and provide less cushion.
Wood
Wood chairs like cedar and teak are also suitable materials because of their density, natural oils, and resistance to rot and insects. Look for sustainably harvested woods. Avoid less durable softwoods like pine that deteriorate more quickly. Wood chairs can be very comfortable but require more maintenance to keep them looking nice.
Plastic and Resin
Affordable, weather-resistant, and available in lots of styles, plastic and resin chairs like HDPE, polypropylene, and polyethylene hold up well around fires. Resins made from recycled plastics are environmentally-friendly options. Plastic doesn’t last as long as wood or metal and can potentially melt near high heat. Look for UV-protected materials.
Fabric and Cushions
Chairs with fabric sling seats or removable cushions use materials like weather-resistant polyester, Sunbrella fabrics, and outdoor-rated foam cores. Avoid cushions and fabrics that aren’t specifically made for outdoor use. Look for quick-drying mesh fabrics. Remove cushions when chair isn’t in use.
Stone, Concrete, and Brick
Masonry materials like concrete, stone, and brick retain heat well around a fire and are extremely durable options. They can be uncomfortable for long periods without cushions. Intricate masonry furniture and built-in seating can get very pricey.
Wicker and Rattan
For a lightweight, breathable option, resin or synthetic wicker and rattan are great choices. They incorporate air space to prevent trapping heat. Look for all-weather construction. Natural wicker and rattan will deteriorate quickly near fire.
Ideal Features for Fire Pit Chairs
Beyond the actual materials used, there are some helpful design features andextras to look for when choosing outdoor chairs for a fire pit:
Breathable Materials
Look for mesh fabric seats or open, slatted chair designs that promote airflow. This prevents heat getting trapped underneath you as you sit.
Frame Construction
Choose metal, wood, or resin frames with mortise and tenon joinery, durable welds, or weather-resistant fasteners. This ensures chairs don’t loosen over time with use and exposure.
Rust-Resistant Hardware
Metal chairs should have galvanized, stainless steel, or zinc-plated hardware to resist rusting and deterioration that can weaken the chair.
UV Protection
Fabrics, cushions, and plastic or resin chairs should have UV-inhibitors added to prevent fading and sun damage over time.
Mobility
Chairs on wheels or with foldable designs make it easy to move seating around depending on wind conditions or rearrange for conversation.
Swivel Function
Chairs that swivel make it easy to pivot your seat around the fire pit as needed without straining your neck.
Cup Holders
Built-in cup holders are very convenient for resting drinks while relaxing fireside. Look for holders that can accommodate mugs as well as glasses and bottles.
Weather Resistance
Look for materials that can withstand moisture, rain, snow, and UV rays like powder-coated metals, all-weather wicker, and molded woods.
Storage Capacity
Some fire pit chairs incorporate underneath storage for firewood, kindling, blankets, or fire pit tools. This keeps items on hand but out of sight.
Adjustable Height
Chairs where you can raise or lower the seat allow you to elevate feet closer to the fire or get your head and shoulders farther away from the smoke.
Best Chair Styles for Fire Pits
Now that we’ve covered the ideal fire pit chair features and materials to use, here are some of the most popular seating styles and designs:
Adirondack Chairs
The classic Adirondack chair with its signature deep, sloped seat, wide armrests, and high slatted back is perfectly suited to relaxing around the fire. Available in plastic, HDPE, resin, cedar, teak, wicker, and rawhide leather, it provides ample comfort and support. Look for contoured seats and waterfall front edges for even more comfort. Swivel bases and rocking models add versatility and motion.
Folding & Camp Chairs
Portable folding chairs provide versatile, affordable seating you can move and store easily. Look for hard-wearing polyester fabrics that resist fading, mildew, and water. Aluminum frames hold up better than steel. Mesh seat options add ventilation. Integrated headrests, cup holders, and side tables offer conveniences. Popular styles include sling back, director’s chair, and quad folding designs with sturdy armrests.
Benches
Built-in fire pit benches make great use of space for seating multiple people comfortably. Look for durable concrete, stone, or brick construction. For more comfort, add secure metal frames that support weather-resistant cushions. Look for quality exterior fabric, resilient foam cores, and secure ties. Change out cushions seasonally for fresh looks.
Swivel Chairs & Stools
Swivel chairs and barstools with back support that pivot a full 360° degrees make it easy to rotate your seat around the warmth of the fire. Height-adjustable stools also let you elevate feet closer to flames. Look for breathable mesh or well-ventilatedslat seating. Sturdy metal frames on wheels can move around easily.
Stacking Chairs
Keep a stack of simple plastic stacking chairs on hand for extra guests. Look for heavy-duty, reinforced plastic that tolerates moderate heat exposure. Avoid any flimsy models. Breathable mesh seat options add comfort. For easy storage, look for stackable choices no more than 5-6 chairs high.
Conclusion
Having the right outdoor chairs around a fire pit lets you get the most enjoyment and functionality from your fire feature. Look for durable, heat-resistant materials suited for outdoor use like powder-coated metals, weather-proof wicker and woods, UV-resistant plastics, and masonry. Chairs with breathable mesh seats, open slat designs, and smoothly-operating swivel bases prevent trapping excess heat and make it easy to pivot around the fire. Prioritize comfort features like contoured seats, lumbar support, and added cushions. Convenient additions like cup holders, storage racks, and mobility wheels also enhance your experience. With so many options available, you can create a unique look and feel perfect for relaxing in style around the glow of your backyard fire.