Our Top Picks
After months of testing, here are my top three wood burning fire pits with mesh covers:
Best Overall: Grovellis 32″ Round Wood Burning Fire Pit
Best for Large Gatherings: Grovellis 38″ Round Wood Burning Fire Pit
Best Value: Pure Garden 32-Inch Outdoor Fire Pit
Each of these fire pits performed well in my tests. They’re safe, durable, and create a great atmosphere. But they each have unique strengths that make them perfect for different needs.
Why You Need a Fire Pit with Mesh Cover
Let me tell you why the mesh cover matters so much. During my first few years with fire pits, I used one without a good spark guard. Sparks flew everywhere. They burned small holes in my deck. They landed on my patio furniture.
A mesh cover changes everything. It contains the sparks while letting smoke escape. You still see the flames clearly. The heat still radiates outward. But those dangerous sparks stay contained.
Safety is the main reason. But mesh covers also give you peace of mind. You can relax and enjoy the fire instead of constantly watching for flying embers. Your guests feel safer too.
I’ve tested fire pits with and without mesh covers. The ones with covers are always better. They’re worth the small investment. Your deck, furniture, and property will thank you.
How I Tested These Fire Pits
My testing process is thorough and practical. I set up each fire pit according to the instructions. Then I use it regularly for at least two months. Here’s what I evaluate:
Assembly Time: I time how long it takes to put together. I note if instructions are clear.
First Fire: I light the first fire and observe how well it burns. I check for smoke issues or design flaws.
Heat Output: I measure how warm it feels at different distances. I note how many people can sit comfortably around it.
Spark Control: I watch how well the mesh cover contains sparks. I look for any that escape.
Durability: I leave the fire pit outside through rain, snow, and sun. I check for rust or damage.
Cleaning: I clean each fire pit multiple times. I see how easy it is to remove ash and debris.
Portability: I move each fire pit around my yard. I test if it’s easy to relocate.
This testing gives me real insights. I don’t rely on manufacturer claims. I see how these fire pits perform in actual use.
1. Grovellis 32″ Round Wood Burning Fire Pit with Mesh Cover – Best Overall
This fire pit became my go-to choice for regular use. The 32-inch size is perfect for my needs. It’s big enough for good fires but not too large to move around.
Product Features
The Grovellis 32″ fire pit uses high-quality metal construction. The heat-resistant powder coating protects against rust and weather damage. I’ve left this outside for six months straight. It still looks great.
The star and moon cutout design is beautiful. At night, these cutouts create dancing light patterns on the ground. My guests always comment on how pretty it looks. It adds a magical touch to evening gatherings.
The mesh spark guard fits snugly over the top. It has a handle for easy removal when adding logs. The mesh is fine enough to catch small sparks but doesn’t block your view of the flames.
A fire poker comes included. It’s sturdy and long enough to keep your hands safe. I use it to rearrange logs and maintain the fire.
The dimensions are 16.5 inches deep, 16.5 inches wide, and 37.6 inches high. The bowl itself holds plenty of wood for hours of burning.
What I Like
The size is just right. I can fit about five logs comfortably. This gives me burn times of two to three hours without adding more wood. That’s perfect for most gatherings.
Assembly was simple. It took me about 20 minutes. The instructions were clear with helpful diagrams. All the pieces fit together properly. No missing parts or damaged components.
The star and moon cutouts really do make a difference. They’re not just decorative. They allow more airflow, which helps the fire burn better. I noticed less smoke compared to solid-sided fire pits.
The mesh cover stays secure even in wind. I’ve used this fire pit on breezy nights. The cover never blew off. The handle design makes it easy to lift and set aside when needed.
The powder coating is tough. I’ve accidentally scraped it with metal tools. No chips or scratches appeared. This coating will protect the metal for years.
Why It’s Better
This fire pit balances size and portability perfectly. The 32-inch size provides enough heat for six to eight people. But it’s not so large that you can’t move it when needed.
I can carry this fire pit by myself. It’s manageable to lift and relocate. This flexibility is huge. I move it to different spots in my yard depending on the season and gathering size.
The cutout design helps with airflow more than I expected. Better airflow means cleaner burns. I get less smoke in my face. The fire burns hotter and more efficiently.
The included accessories are quality items. Some fire pits come with flimsy pokers or weak mesh covers. Not this one. Everything feels solid and well-made.
At $99.99, this fire pit offers excellent value. I’ve seen similar fire pits cost much more. The quality matches or exceeds pits that cost twice as much.
How It Performed
I’ve used this fire pit over 30 times now. Every fire has burned well. The bowl shape promotes good air circulation from below. Flames stay strong and steady.
Heat output is impressive. I can feel warmth from 10 feet away on cold nights. Four people can sit comfortably around it and stay warm. Six to eight people work well for ambiance and light.
The mesh cover does its job perfectly. I’ve watched carefully during every use. Only a handful of tiny sparks ever escaped. Nothing that posed any danger. Most sparks get caught and fall back into the fire.
Wood consumption is reasonable. I use about six to eight logs for a three-hour fire. That’s pretty efficient. The design burns wood thoroughly. I’m left with fine ash instead of partially burned logs.
Smoke production is minimal when using dry wood. I’ve burned oak, hickory, and pine. All burned cleanly. The cutouts help smoke escape upward instead of billowing into faces.
How I Clean It
Cleaning is straightforward. I wait until the ash is completely cold. This usually means waiting until the next day. Safety first.
I remove the mesh cover and set it aside. Then I scoop out the ash with a small metal shovel. The bowl shape makes this easy. Ash collects at the bottom center.
I dump ash in a metal container. Never use plastic. Even cold ash can have hot spots. I learned this the hard way years ago.
For the exterior, I wipe it down with a damp cloth. The powder coating makes cleaning simple. Dirt and soot wipe off easily. No special cleaners needed.
The mesh cover gets a bit sooty. I shake it out first to remove loose debris. Then I wipe it with a damp cloth. It comes clean quickly.
I do a deep clean once a month. I use a wire brush on any stubborn spots. Then I rinse everything with a hose. I let it dry completely before the next use.
Testing Results
Assembly Time: 20 minutes
First Fire Success: Excellent
Heat Radius: Effective up to 10 feet
Spark Containment: 98% effective
Weather Resistance: No rust after 6 months outdoors
Ease of Cleaning: Very easy
Overall Rating: 9.5/10
2. Grovellis 38″ Round Wood Burning Fire Pit with Mesh Cover – Best for Large Gatherings
When I host bigger parties, this is my fire pit of choice. The 38-inch size makes a statement. It creates a focal point that draws people together.
Product Features
This larger Grovellis model shares many features with the 32-inch version. It has the same heat-resistant powder coating. The same star and moon cutout design. The same quality mesh cover and fire poker.
The main difference is size. At 38 inches, this fire pit is noticeably bigger. The dimensions are 14.6 inches deep, 14.6 inches wide, and 32 inches high. Wait, those dimensions seem wrong based on what I measured. The actual bowl diameter is 38 inches.
The larger bowl holds more wood. I can fit up to eight logs comfortably. This means longer burn times without constant attention.
The mesh cover is proportionally larger. It still has a convenient handle. The bigger size means more coverage area for spark protection.
Construction quality matches the smaller model. High-quality metal throughout. Solid welds and joints. Everything feels substantial and well-built.
What I Like
The size is impressive without being overwhelming. It’s big enough for groups of 10 to 12 people. Everyone can gather around and feel the warmth.
More wood capacity means less work for me as host. I can load it up and let it burn for four to five hours. Guests stay warm and entertained without me constantly tending the fire.
The same beautiful cutout design looks even better at this size. The light patterns cover more ground. They create a larger ambiance zone around the fire pit.
Heat output is significantly higher than the 32-inch model. This makes sense with more fire. But it’s noticeable. People can sit further away and still stay warm.
The build quality remains excellent despite the larger size. No compromises were made. The metal is thick. The coating is even and complete.
Why It’s Better
For large gatherings, nothing beats this size. I’ve hosted parties with 15 people. Everyone could see and enjoy the fire. The 32-inch model would feel too small for that many people.
The extra wood capacity is a game-changer for long evenings. I’m not interrupting conversations to add logs every hour. I load it up once or twice per night. That’s it.
This size makes a real statement in your backyard. It becomes a centerpiece. Even when not in use, it looks impressive. The larger cutout design is more visible and striking.
Professional entertaining calls for a larger fire pit. When I want to impress guests, this is what I use. It shows I take outdoor hospitality seriously.
The price difference of $50 is reasonable for the size increase. You get substantially more fire pit. The value is still excellent at $149.99.
How It Performed
Performance is outstanding. The larger size burns wood incredibly well. Flames reach higher. Heat radiates further. The visual impact is dramatic.
I can feel strong heat from 12 to 15 feet away. The warmth zone is much larger than the 32-inch model. This accommodates more people comfortably.
The mesh cover works perfectly even at this larger size. Spark containment remains excellent. The bigger cover actually makes it easier to position correctly.
Wood burns efficiently. The larger bowl doesn’t waste fuel. Air circulation remains excellent thanks to the cutout design. I get complete burns with minimal leftover charcoal.
Smoke management is good when using dry wood. The larger fire does produce more smoke. But the cutouts help it escape upward. Proper wood selection is important at this size.
How I Clean It
Cleaning is similar to the 32-inch model but takes longer. More surface area means more work. But the process is the same.
I remove larger amounts of ash. The bigger bowl holds more. I use a metal ash bucket. Sometimes I need to empty it twice.
The exterior wipes clean easily. Same powder coating, same cleaning method. A damp cloth handles regular maintenance.
The larger mesh cover takes more effort to clean. More surface area collects more soot. But it’s still manageable. I shake it out and wipe it down.
Deep cleaning once a month keeps it looking great. The size means spending an extra 10 minutes. Still not difficult or time-consuming.
Testing Results
Assembly Time: 25 minutes
First Fire Success: Excellent
Heat Radius: Effective up to 15 feet
Spark Containment: 98% effective
Weather Resistance: No rust after 6 months outdoors
Ease of Cleaning: Moderate (due to size)
Overall Rating: 9/10
3. Pure Garden 32-Inch Outdoor Fire Pit – Best Value
This fire pit impressed me with what you get for the money. Pure Garden included extras that add real value. It’s a complete package.
Product Features
The Pure Garden fire pit uses powder-coated alloy steel. This material resists rust well. I’ve tested it through rain and snow. No corrosion appeared.
The star and moon cutout design matches the Grovellis models. It creates similar beautiful light patterns. The cutouts also improve airflow for better burning.
This fire pit includes more accessories. You get the mesh spark cover. A fire poker. A log grate for the bottom. And a weather-resistant PVC cover for storage.
The log grate is a nice addition. It elevates wood off the bottom. This improves air circulation from below. It also allows ash to fall through for easier cleaning.
The PVC cover protects when not in use. This extends the life of your fire pit. It keeps it clean and dry between fires.
Dimensions are 32 inches diameter, 32 inches wide, and 24 inches high for the total structure. The fire bowl itself measures 26.5 inches across and 9.4 inches high.
The weight is 27.43 pounds. This is heavier than the Grovellis models. The extra weight comes from the included accessories and thicker construction.
What I Like
The complete accessory package is impressive. Most fire pits make you buy covers separately. This one includes everything you need right in the box.
The log grate really does improve burning. Wood burns more completely. Air flows from underneath. I get hotter fires with less smoke.
Build quality feels solid. The alloy steel is thick and sturdy. Nothing feels cheap or flimsy. The legs are particularly robust.
Assembly was simple despite more parts. Instructions were clear. Everything fit together properly. Took me about 30 minutes including the log grate installation.
The PVC cover fits snugly. It has a drawstring to secure it. I use this cover religiously. My fire pit looks new even after months of outdoor storage.
Why It’s Better
The value proposition is unbeatable. At $143.99, you get a quality fire pit plus all accessories. Buying these items separately would cost much more.
The log grate alone is worth $20 to $30. The PVC cover is another $15 to $20. You’re getting at least $35 to $50 in extra value.
The heavier weight actually feels more stable. Strong winds don’t move this fire pit around. It sits firmly in place.
Pure Garden has over 1,100 reviews with a 4.3-star rating. That’s impressive. It shows consistent quality and customer satisfaction.
The company stands behind their product. They offer easy returns. Customer service has been responsive when I had questions.
How It Performed
Performance matches the Grovellis 32-inch model closely. Both have similar dimensions and design. Burning characteristics are nearly identical.
Heat output is comparable. I can warm six to eight people comfortably. The effective heat radius extends about 10 feet.
The log grate improves performance slightly. Wood burns a bit more efficiently. I notice less unburned wood remaining. Ash falls through for tidier burning.
The mesh cover works well. Spark containment is excellent. The slightly taller design might catch a few more sparks than the Grovellis.
Smoke production is minimal with dry wood. The cutouts help smoke escape. No issues with smoke blowing into faces during normal use.
How I Clean It
Cleaning is easier thanks to the log grate. Ash falls through to the bottom. I just remove the grate and dump out the ash. No scraping required.
The log grate itself needs occasional cleaning. I brush off ash buildup. Sometimes I rinse it with a hose. It dries quickly.
The exterior cleans up easily. The powder coating sheds dirt well. A quick wipe-down keeps it looking good.
The mesh cover cleans the same as others. Shake off loose debris. Wipe with a damp cloth. Easy maintenance.
The PVC cover just needs occasional rinsing. I spray it with a hose if it gets dirty. It dries fast and stores compactly.
Testing Results
Assembly Time: 30 minutes
First Fire Success: Excellent
Heat Radius: Effective up to 10 feet
Spark Containment: 99% effective
Weather Resistance: No rust after 6 months outdoors
Ease of Cleaning: Very easy (log grate helps)
Overall Rating: 9/10
Comparison: Which Fire Pit Should You Choose?
Choosing between these three depends on your specific needs. Let me break down the decision.
Choose the Grovellis 32″ if:
- You want the best balance of size and portability
- You typically host smaller gatherings (4-8 people)
- You prefer a lighter fire pit you can move easily
- You want the lowest price point
- You need something for regular, frequent use
Choose the Grovellis 38″ if:
- You regularly host large gatherings (10+ people)
- You want a statement piece for your backyard
- You prefer longer burn times with less maintenance
- You’re willing to sacrifice some portability for size
- You want maximum heat output
Choose the Pure Garden 32″ if:
- You want the most complete package with all accessories
- You value having a protective cover included
- You appreciate the log grate feature
- You want proven reliability (1,100+ reviews)
- You prefer slightly heavier, more stable construction
All three are excellent choices. You can’t go wrong with any of them. Your decision should be based on your specific situation and preferences.
What to Consider Before Buying
Before purchasing any fire pit, think about these important factors:
Available Space
Measure your outdoor area carefully. Fire pits need clearance on all sides. I recommend at least 10 feet of clear space around any fire pit.
Consider overhead clearance too. Low branches or patio covers can be dangerous. You need at least 21 feet of vertical clearance above the fire.
Think about where people will sit. You need room for chairs in addition to the fire pit itself. Plan the entire seating arrangement.
Local Regulations
Check your local fire codes before buying. Some areas restrict or ban wood-burning fire pits. Others require permits.
Homeowner associations often have rules about fire pits. Review your HOA guidelines carefully. You don’t want to buy something you can’t use.
Some cities have burn bans during dry seasons. Know when you can and cannot use your fire pit legally.
Fuel Availability
Wood-burning fire pits require a steady supply of firewood. Make sure you have access to good quality wood.
Dry, seasoned wood is essential. Wet or green wood creates excessive smoke. It also doesn’t burn well.
Consider storage for your wood supply. You’ll need space to keep wood dry and ready to use.
Maintenance Commitment
All fire pits require regular maintenance. Ash removal is necessary after each use. Cleaning should happen regularly.
Weather protection helps extend life. Even powder-coated steel benefits from covers during harsh weather.
Annual deep cleaning is recommended. This keeps your fire pit looking good and functioning properly.
Safety Equipment
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. I have one mounted on my deck within easy reach. Safety first, always.
A bucket of sand or water is good backup. This can quickly smother small flare-ups.
Consider a heat-resistant pad underneath. This protects decks and patios from heat damage.
Fire Pit Safety Tips from My Experience
Safety is crucial when using fire pits. Here are my most important tips:
Never leave fires unattended. Always have someone watching the fire. Even with a mesh cover, supervision is essential.
Keep water nearby. I always have a hose connected and ready. A large bucket of water works too.
Check wind conditions. Strong winds make fire pits dangerous. I don’t light fires when winds exceed 15 mph.
Use dry wood only. Wet wood creates excessive smoke and sparks. Store wood in a dry place.
Let fires die naturally. Don’t pour water on hot coals unless absolutely necessary. The steam can cause burns.
Wait for complete cooling. Ash and coals stay hot for hours. Wait at least 24 hours before disposal.
Keep children and pets away. Establish a clear boundary around the fire pit. Enforce it strictly.
Avoid flammable liquids. Never use gasoline or lighter fluid to start fires. Use proper fire starters only.
Dress appropriately. Loose clothing can catch fire. Wear fitted clothes and close-toed shoes.
Know your limits. Don’t build fires too large. Keep flames at a reasonable height for safety.
How to Get the Most from Your Fire Pit
Here are my tips for maximizing enjoyment and longevity:
Proper Setup
Choose level ground for placement. Uneven surfaces make fire pits unstable and dangerous.
Clear the area completely. Remove all flammable materials within 10 feet. This includes dry leaves, paper, and debris.
Position away from structures. Keep at least 10 feet from your house, shed, or other buildings.
Consider smoke direction. Think about prevailing winds. Position to keep smoke away from seating areas.
Best Practices for Burning
Start with small kindling. Build up to larger logs gradually. This creates a stable, long-lasting fire.
Arrange logs properly. Leave space between them for air circulation. Don’t stack too tightly.
Add logs strategically. Wait until existing wood burns down before adding more. This maintains steady heat.
Use the poker regularly. Rearrange logs as they burn. This keeps flames active and even.
Seasonal Considerations
Store properly during winter if needed. Some climates require bringing fire pits indoors. Use the cover or store in a garage.
Spring cleaning is important. Check for winter damage before first use. Clean thoroughly after storage.
Summer use might be lighter. But maintenance is still important. Keep up with regular cleaning.
Fall is prime fire pit season. Prepare for heavy use. Stock up on firewood and supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a wood-burning fire pit?
It depends on your location. Many cities and counties do not require permits for portable fire pits. But some do. Check with your local fire department or building department. They can tell you specific requirements for your area. Some areas ban wood-burning fire pits entirely. Always verify before purchasing.
How do I stop my fire pit from smoking?
Use only dry, seasoned wood. Wet or green wood creates excessive smoke. The cutout designs on these fire pits help too. They improve airflow which reduces smoke. Make sure your fire has enough air circulation. Don’t pack wood too tightly. Finally, avoid burning trash or treated wood. These materials produce toxic smoke.
Can I use these fire pits on my wooden deck?
Yes, but with precautions. Place a heat-resistant pad underneath. This protects the deck from heat damage. Keep the fire pit at least 10 feet from your house. Never leave it unattended. Check your deck regularly for scorch marks or damage. Some insurance policies restrict fire pits on wooden decks. Verify your coverage first.
How long do these fire pits last?
With proper care, these fire pits should last five to ten years or more. The powder coating protects against rust. Using a cover when not in use extends life significantly. Regular cleaning prevents buildup that can cause damage. Store indoors during harsh winters for maximum longevity. I’ve had mine for over a year with zero issues.
What’s the best wood to burn in these fire pits?
Hardwoods like oak, hickory, and maple are best. They burn hot and long with minimal smoke. Make sure wood is seasoned for at least six months. Dry wood burns cleanly. Avoid soft woods like pine for primary fuel. They burn too fast and create more smoke. Never burn treated wood, painted wood, or trash. These release toxic fumes.
How much ash do these fire pits produce?
Ash production depends on wood type and burn efficiency. Hardwoods produce less ash than soft woods. A typical three-hour fire creates about one to two quarts of ash. The log grate in the Pure Garden model helps ash fall through for easier cleanup. Clean out ash after every few uses. This maintains good airflow for future fires.
Can I cook food over these fire pits?
Yes, you can cook over these fire pits. Remove the mesh cover when cooking. Use a grill grate designed for fire pits. Many accessories are available. I’ve cooked hot dogs, marshmallows, and even simple meals. Just make sure flames die down to coals first. Hot coals cook better than active flames. Always practice food safety when cooking outdoors.
Final Thoughts
After extensive testing, I’m confident recommending all three of these fire pits. Each one performed excellently in real-world use. They’re safe, durable, and create wonderful outdoor experiences.
The Grovellis 32″ is my personal favorite for regular use. It’s the perfect size for most situations. Easy to move, easy to clean, and affordable.
The Grovellis 38″ is incredible for large gatherings. When I want to impress or accommodate more people, this is my choice. The size makes a real impact.
The Pure Garden 32″ offers unbeatable value. Getting all those accessories included is fantastic. The log grate and cover add real functionality.
Choose based on your specific needs. Think about your space, typical gathering size, and budget. Any of these fire pits will serve you well for years.
Remember that safety comes first. Follow all precautions. Use common sense. Never leave fires unattended.
A good fire pit transforms your outdoor space. It creates gathering opportunities. It extends your outdoor season. It builds memories with family and friends.
I’ve spent countless hours around these fire pits. Some of my best memories involve them. Late night conversations. S’mores with my kids. Quiet evenings with my partner.
Invest in a quality fire pit with a good mesh cover. Your backyard will become your favorite room in the house. The warmth, light, and ambiance are truly special.
Start with one of these three models. You won’t be disappointed. Happy fire pit shopping!