How to Use Fire Glass or Rocks in a Gas Fire Feature?

 

Gas fire features are being preferred by more and more homeowners because of their ease of use and safety parameters. A copper fire bowl, table or even pit will look classy and striking in any outdoor or even indoor setting.

However, the fire feature can often appear bare and incomplete with only the burner and pipes in it. At times, people even wish to conceal the gas arrangement inside to give a more natural and tasteful appearance.

The answer lies in accessories like fire glass, lava rock, stones, ball sets, etc.

Tips for Proper Arrangement

People use different accessories in varied arrangements to create the desired look in their fire feature. Lava rock gives a rustic appearance to the fire while glass reflects the flames, making the shimmer and blaze look more intense and attractive.

It should be kept in mind that about two to four inches of glass, rocks or stones will be needed to line the fire feature properly. The first layer should always be the smallest glass or rocks as they will fit snugly together and create a good base. It is a good idea to first put an inch of pea gravel or sand at the bottom of the fire feature before proceeding with the lava rocks or fire glass. This will serve as the foundation and also help save on the cost of the other accessories.

The lava rock or fire glass should be laid till slightly above the burner element. At times, people create layers of sand and rock followed by fire glass only in the final top layer. This again proves economical as fire glass is the most expensive of the lot.

Here it should be noted that if the lava rocks are being topped by fire glass, the glass should either be dark enough or laid thickly enough to conceal the layer of rocks beneath it.

A gas log set can also be added on top to give a more authentic appearance to the fire.

When the gas burner is lit, the fire glass or rocks should not end up obstructing the flames. They can be moved around with a poker to clear the path and ensure a proper shape to the flames.

And the first time the fire is lit, it is better to stay away for the first half hour or so. Allow the initial moisture to burn away and the popping sounds to subside before gathering around the flames!

Where to get?

Outdoor Fire & Patio (www.outdoorfireandpatio.com) is the perfect place to source top quality and safe gas fire bowls, tables and pits along with the requisite accessories. In fact, there are myriad options in colors and styles of fire glass, beads, lava rocks, etc.