Raymond WhitneyThere’s nothing more relaxing than sitting by an open fire in your backyard, cooking marshmallows in the flames.
Solo Stoves are particularly ideal to do this since they’re almost non-smokers and have lower temperatures than the other stoves, however, are they safe for use on decks?
The Solo Stoves will be suitable for use on decking made of Trex or wood in conjunction with your Solo Stove stand or a fireplace barrier that is heat-resistant under the.
Even though Solo Stoves generate lesser heat than the other varieties of fire pits, they can nevertheless damage your decking during long periods of usage.
We’ll take a closer look into the reasons why Solo Stoves are suitable for decks made of Trex and wood as well as how they channel heat and the reasons why you should consider using the stand we talked about as well as a fireplace block.
We’ll also look at the degree of heat these stoves can generate when they’re outside, and whether they’re suitable to be used on decks that are covered or on the porch.
Can You Use a Solo Stove On a Wooden Deck?
It is true that you are able to make use of the Solo Stove on your wooden deck. That’s great news as there’s nothing cozier on a cold evening than sitting around a fire pit with your friends, sharing stories, and sipping something warm.
However, we’re talking about a mixture of wood and fire in this instance, which means there are some safety precautions to be taken.
The first step is to choose carefully. Make sure you don’t choose an area that is just on your deck and does not come with a stand. Choose a pit that is compatible with a stand and we’ll discuss Solo Stove stand options in the next minute since they’re a simple solution.
You can also consider installing a barrier that is heat-resistant on the deck (again that’s something we’ll explore in greater detail later).
Some fire pits can reach temperatures of 1000oF, you do not want this level of heat to hit the deck. In order to let heat disperse across the ground, there must be space between the two.
The primary aspect to consider is the direction of heat. When the sun’s energy radiates upwards it will heat the surface of your deck.
A second thing you should keep in mind is the possibility of sparks. An actual fire could be spit, hiss, and shoot out sparks. You aren’t going to want them damaging your deck.
There’s also the risk of embers that are hot and red moving from the pit if the pit is damaged. You can protect yourself by putting up a stronger barrier and never burn good quality wood that is less likely to ignite.
Solo Stoves are a great choice because they’re cooler than most models and don’t create more sparks or smoke.
Is it OK To Use a Solo Stove On a Trex Deck?
Trex is a form of composite decking, with others like Azek, Nexan, and Versadeck. All of these brands come with the manufacturer’s fire resistance grades.
They are rated from A to C being the most resistant to fire. Review the installation guide or your builder manufacturer to determine which classification your PVC or composite decking is rated with.
With those high temperatures that could reach the surface of your Trex deck, we’d suggest a stand for the fire pit. It will allow it to be elevated enough to be a safe separation from the deck and you could also include a barrier to the surface. Like a deck made of wood don’t make use of a fire pit that is placed directly on the floor.
If you’re really concerned about the look the deck has, no matter if it’s made of wood or composite opt for a different fuel source like gas-powered fireplaces. It’s not exactly the exact same, but there are plenty of gas-powered options there.
If you would like wooden decking as well as an actual fire pit Another option is to place it right from your deck.
The types of surfaces you won’t need to be concerned about are pavers, concrete stones, gravel, and dirt. The grass could be burned, so be cautious before you set your fire pit directly onto the lawn.
Should I Use The Solo Stove Stand?
The answer is simple: yes. They’re great and we would never ignite the flame of our Solo Stove without first placing it onto its stylish stand. The stands are clever rings made of the same material used in the stoves and are made of stainless steel 304. They are designed with holes to release heat.
Since it is the Solo Stove stand is designed to be a perfect fit for your fire pit perfectly, you don’t have the danger of it slipping or becoming unstable. In addition, when you’re ready to remove the stove the stand can be stored in a neat and tidy manner.
When you’re planning to use this Solo Stove on your deck it is important. We’d also suggest using one on the grass (you’ll regret not having this in the end if you’re left with scorched circles on your lawn) and on the sand in the event that you’re planning to take your fire pit on a trip to the ocean.
We know that sand doesn’t ignite however it could cause obstruction to the air vents that are located at the base of the cooking area, which is why the stand is a little bit of height to avoid this.
In the event that your outdoor patio was constructed of concrete or stone pavers and you’re good without the need for a stand. If, however, you’ve painted or stained your pavers, you’ll have to install stands.
Do I Need a Heat Resistant Fire Pit Barrier For a Solo Stove On a Deck?
If you’re using the Solo Stove Stand, it will allow enough space between your fire pit and its floor. If you’d like to make sure you’re safe then you could place it on a barrier that is heat-resistant.
They are available as tough barriers from Amazon: Newtex makes a round design that looks elegant beneath the Solo Stove fireplace. Deck protects produces aluminum thermal barriers that come in various sizes. Make sure that the barrier is greater than the size of the fire pit in order to stop the legs or base from swaying.
How Is Solo Stove Heat Directed?
Solo Stoves generate less heat downwards than other kinds of fire pt. The reason is the airflow. The air is drawn in through the vent holes located at the base and is drawn upwards by the flames. Much energy is turned upwards away from the deck.
If you’re in search of radiant warmth, then this may be a concern Is all the heat lost to the upwards? This isn’t the case. It doesn’t emit more heat than other designs yet you’ll still be able to get ample warmth thanks to its warm flames.
Does The Solo Stove Get Hot On The Outside?
Yes, it is: it’s a box made of metal with an internal fire. It’s not as hot as other burners for fire pits due to the fact that the air is drawn from the bottom. its design that is insulated also stops it from getting red hot. However, you’ll have to look after your children and pets.
Solo Stoves recommend that you avoid touching any part within the pit of fire until it has cool. Because it’s extremely hot and the stove cools rapidly. This is definitely a benefit in terms of fire security.
One of the best things about The Stove Solo Stove fireplace is the fact that it releases lower levels of smoke than similar models which makes it an enjoyable, less eye-swelling experience for children.
Due to this, there are fewer sparks as well, but you may need to be vigilant about this. Fire pits can be outfitted with spark screens made of a durable mesh that prevents sparks from exploding in the event of children playing.
If you’re really worried then you can put in a fire protection system like you would with your indoor wood-burning stove. Naturally, you could just keep the fire pit for an evening snack for grownups and kids older than the kids are at night in their bed…
Can The Solo Stove Be Used On a Covered Deck, Porch, or Patio?
It’s a topic to debate. It’s a small and compact stove that doesn’t spew out sparks and smoke like other fire pits. The fire is well-contained. It’s also possible to use it as a lighting device under a canopy, isn’t it?
All stoves require adequate ventilation to prevent the accumulation of carbon monoxide. And no one wants to breathe in that. Each year, we read about campers dying from grilling in their tents or under the awning.
A deck that is covered or a porch that has a roof has more airflow than an indoor space, but it’s not as great as the outdoors. A porch or patio which is open on three sides is able to get decent airflow and a gazebo is similar on all sides.
If you intend to use it with your Solo Stove outdoors on a wet day, place it near the edge of your porch or patio in the best way you are able to.
In the event that you’re in the position of space as well as money an ad-hoc pergola with a wide opening and having a tall roof creates a safe outdoor area to set up the firepit.
Do you want to keep your home warm in a covered area most nights? A solar patio heater is a more secure option with the fire pit being kept to use outdoors. Another option is if you want to have a real fire but think your patio isn’t enough enclosed: put in an actual fireplace with an actual flue.
We don’t recommend having a firebox in the cover due to the CO hazards. There are plenty of sunny evenings and days to relax with the warmth of your Solo Stove in the great outdoors, safe sitting on the deck, or even in your backyard.
Final Words
In the end, you’re able to place the Solo Stove on Trex or wood decks provided you have the appropriate stand beneath it or the fire pit as a barrier.
Solo Stoves emit significantly less heat and smoke than other fire pits. Even though they do still get hot from the outside they are much safer generally on decks than other models, which channel more heat down onto the deck and emit more sparks.
And the most amazing thing is? You can roast marshmallows to perfection with the Solo Stove as well.
