5 Types of Fire Pits Perfect for Calgary Homeowners
A fire pit is the heart of any backyard, bringing people together in every season. In Calgary, where summers are ideal for late-night drinks and socializing under clear skies, and winters call for cozy gatherings around a warm crackling fire, a well-built fire pit transforms your outdoor space into a year-round retreat. Whether it’s marshmallow roasts in the fall or enjoying a cool summer evening with friends, the right fire pit is the centrepiece of a welcoming outdoor space.
At Calgary Dreamscapes, we specialize in designing and building all sorts of fire pits that withstand our harsh winters while enhancing your landscape’s beauty and functionality. Below, we explore the top types of fire pits perfect for Calgary backyards—designed to last and ready to keep you warm all year long.
Top 5 Fire Pit Materials in Calgary
#1. Stone Fire Pits
Stone fire pits are a timeless choice for any Calgary backyard, offering both durability and aesthetic appeal. Constructed from local materials like Kootenay brownstone, these fire pits are built to withstand the relentless freeze-thaw cycles of our winters without cracking or crumbling. Their natural, rustic charm blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, whether you’re in the heart of the city or on the outskirts overlooking the Rockies.
A well-designed stone fire pit, complete with a fireproof base and heat-resistant liner, becomes a permanent centrepiece for outdoor gatherings. Proper installation by professionals ensures they remain safe and stunning for years to come; that’s where our professional team at Calgary Dreamscapes can help!
#2. Concrete Fire Pits
For those seeking a modern, sleek look, concrete fire pits are an excellent option that pairs style with resilience. These can be custom-moulded into an array of shapes and sizes, fitting perfectly into contemporary or minimalist yard designs across Calgary’s diverse neighbourhoods.
Concrete stands up to our cold winters and resists warping or cracking under extreme temperature shifts—a must in our climate. You can even personalize them with colour pigments or stamped textures to match your outdoor decor. They’re a low-maintenance choice that delivers functionality and style.
#3. Metal Fire Pits (Steel & Cast Iron)
Metal fire pits, especially those crafted from steel or cast iron, are incredibly durable and well-suited to Calgary’s ever-changing weather. Often available in portable, prefabricated designs from your local department store, they offer convenience and flexibility for homeowners looking to make a new fire pit the focal point of their landscape.
The ability of metal to not only resist corrosion but also efficiently radiate heat makes it ideal for chilly nights year-round when you’re bundled up under a starry sky. A little maintenance, such as applying a rust-proof coating, goes a long way in preserving their look and longevity. These fire pits are a practical yet stylish addition to any backyard and are easily acquired from your local department store.
#4. Brick Fire Pits
Brick fire pits bring a classic, cozy vibe to Calgary landscapes, evoking a sense of tradition and warmth. Built with fire-resistant bricks and high-temperature mortar, they’re designed to handle the intense heat of a roaring fire without breaking down.
Brick fire pits are a favourite for DIY enthusiasts in our community who want a hands-on project that stands up to long, snowy winters. To maximize durability, ensure proper drainage and consider adding a steel liner to protect the structure. This type of fire pit becomes a charming focal point for marshmallow roasts and storytelling year-round.
#5. Clay Chiminea Fire Pits
Clay chimineas, a traditional fire pit style originating from Latin America, are gaining traction in Calgary for their unique, artsy look and functional design. Made from fired clay or terracotta, they’re often portable and feature a chimney-like structure that directs smoke upward, keeping it well away from fire pit patrons.
While not as naturally durable in extreme cold as stone or metal, a well-maintained clay chiminea fire pit—stored indoors during the harshest winter months or covered with a weatherproof protector—can last for years. Their enclosed design provides a safer, contained fire, which is ideal for smaller yards. Make sure to choose a high-quality model and place it on a stable, non-combustible base for best results.
Wood vs. Natural Gas: Weighing the Pros and Cons
When deciding how to fuel or burn your fire pit, the choice often comes down to wood or gas. Each has its pros and cons, especially in the context of Calgary’s climate and lifestyle.
Wood-Burning Fire Pits
Pros: There’s nothing like the authentic crackle, smell, and ambiance of a wood fire—it’s the quintessential outdoor experience that many Calgarians crave during cool evenings. Wood is widely available and often more affordable upfront, especially when sourced locally. It also allows for a more hands-on, rustic feel, perfect for roasting marshmallows or hot dogs.
Cons: Wood-burning fire pits require more effort, from sourcing and storing dry, clean wood to cleaning up ash and soot after each use. Additionally, Calgary’s fire bylaws restrict burning to approved, clean fuels, and smoke can be an issue for neighbours, especially in densely populated areas. Also, ash from the wood fire may cover the immediate area, making a bit of a mess at times. And last, wood-burning fires can give off fumes that aren’t healthy to breathe in, so you may have to reposition your chair every once in a while.
Natural Gas Fire Pits
Pros: Natural gas offers unparalleled convenience with a simple ignition—no need to haul wood or deal with messy cleanup. It burns cleanly, producing minimal smoke, which aligns with Calgary’s strict fire regulations and keeps the air clearer for everyone nearby. You can also control the flame intensity easily, making it safer and more predictable. Natural gas burning fire pits don’t give off as much toxic fumes as wood-burning ones, if at all.
Cons: Installation requires professional expertise to connect to a gas line, which can increase the upfront cost of your fire pit design and construction. Also, natural gas fire pits lack the traditional charm of a wood fire. You’re also tied to a fixed location unless using propane tanks, which need regular refilling.
At Calgary Dreamscapes, we can help you navigate the best options for your property — just give us a call!
Bring Your Dream Fire Pit to Life with Calgary Dreamscapes
A well-built fire pit is the perfect addition to your backyard, providing warmth, style, and a reason to gather year-round. At Calgary Dreamscapes, we create custom fire pits that are built to withstand Calgary’s climate and elevate your outdoor space. Contact us today for a 100% FREE, no-obligation quote to start planning your perfect backyard retreat!