There’s nothing quite like gathering around a fire on a cool Tennessee evening. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a quiet night outdoors, a fire pit turns an ordinary backyard into a warm, inviting outdoor living area. In East Tennessee—where the rolling hills, wooded surroundings, and seasonal temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor relaxation—a custom fire pit is one of the most valuable upgrades you can add to your property.
At RockSolid Hardscaping & Landscaping, we design and build natural stone fire pits and custom outdoor features that blend beautifully with the Tennessee landscape. If you’re looking to elevate your patio, upgrade your backyard, or enhance your outdoor entertaining experience, here’s how a custom fire pit can transform your space.
Why Fire Pits Are So Popular in East Tennessee
From the Upper Cumberland to Middle Tennessee, homeowners love spending time outdoors. Our mild spring and fall seasons, along with cool summer nights in higher elevations, make fire pits a natural fit for local outdoor living.
Fire pits offer:
- A year-round gathering space
- Increased home value
- A natural focal point for patios
- Enhanced ambiance and visual warmth
- Functional use for cooking or entertaining
Whether your property is flat, sloped, wooded, or open, a fire pit can be designed to match your style and landscape.
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Choosing the Right Type of Custom Fire Pit
Not all fire pits are created equal. The best option depends on your outdoor space, design preferences, and how you plan to use the feature.
Below are the most common types used throughout Tennessee:
1. Natural Stone Fire Pits
Natural stone fire pits are extremely popular across the Cumberland Plateau because they match the local terrain and offer superior durability.
Benefits include:
- Withstands heat and weather
- Blends seamlessly with patios and retaining walls
- Creates a rustic, timeless look
- Works well with nearby boulders, pathways, and stone steps
These fire pits pair beautifully with flagstone patios and outdoor seating areas.
2. Paver Fire Pits
Paver fire pits offer a clean, modern appearance and work well for homeowners with existing paver patios.
Advantages:
- Consistent color tones
- Structural stability
- Cost-effective option
- Works with a wide range of shapes and sizes
Paver fire pits are ideal for homeowners wanting a sleek, uniform design.
3. Gas Fire Pits
Gas fire pits provide easy ignition and low maintenance. They’re perfect for backyards where convenience is a priority.
Features:
- Instant on/off
- No wood storage required
- Minimal cleanup
- Customizable flame appearance
They are popular for outdoor kitchens, pergola areas, and modern patio designs.
4. Wood-Burning Fire Pits
For homeowners who enjoy crackling logs and a traditional fire experience, wood-burning fire pits offer the best ambiance.
Benefits:
- Strong heat output
- Classic campfire atmosphere
- Works well with natural stone builds
- Ideal for entertaining
These are the most common option in rural and wooded areas of East Tennessee.
How a Fire Pit Enhances Outdoor Living
A custom fire pit adds more than visual appeal—it transforms how you use your backyard.
1. Extends Your Outdoor Season
Cool weather doesn’t stop Tennesseans from enjoying their backyards. A fire pit keeps your outdoor space comfortable from early spring through late fall.
2. Creates a Natural Gathering Space
Seating naturally forms around a fire pit, making it the perfect place for:
- Family gatherings
- Weekend parties
- Relaxation after work
- Storytelling and bonding
It becomes a focal point for connection.
3. Pairs Beautifully with Other Hardscaping Features
A fire pit is even better when integrated with other design elements:
- Patios
- Retaining walls
- Outdoor kitchens
- Walkways
- Landscape lighting
Explore hardscape options:
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4. Boosts Property Value
Outdoor living features are among the highest-ROI home improvements. A professionally installed fire pit is attractive to homebuyers and enhances curb appeal.
Where to Place Your Fire Pit for Best Results
Placement matters more than homeowners realize. A fire pit must be positioned safely and strategically to create a usable outdoor space.
RockSolid evaluates:
- Wind direction
- Slope and grading
- Patio size
- Seating layout
- Drainage patterns
- Proximity to structures
- Local regulations
Good placement ensures your fire pit looks intentional—not like an afterthought—and functions safely year-round.
Fire Pit Safety and Long-Term Maintenance
A custom fire pit is designed to last, but it still requires basic upkeep.
Maintenance Tips:
- Clean out ash regularly (wood-burning pits)
- Check gas lines annually (gas pits)
- Seal surrounding stone or pavers if needed
- Keep area free of debris
- Use a protective cover during heavy rain
Professional installation reduces long-term issues, especially when paired with proper grading and drainage.
