When it comes to fire pits the phrase, the more things change, the more they stay the same applies. In fact, fire pits may have been the original example. Evidence of controlled fires uncovered in South Africa’s Northern Cape province dated back to about a million years ago. The first confirmed fire-contained structures were found In Israel. They were created between 7 and 8 hundred thousand years ago. Today, fire pits are one of the most popular outdoor living additions. An evening gathered around a fire making s'mores is a far cry from our ancestors recovering from a day of hunting, being chased by dinosaurs, and weathering the elements. The feeling, though, has remained constant through the ages. Staring into the flames lowers the blood pressure, increases relaxation, and can induce a trance-like state. One of the oldest fire pits still in use today is the Dakota, first used in the 1600s. It is a low fuel, almost no smoke structure. At Stone Age Masonry, we use tried and true techniques to create the perfect setting.
There is no better way to get back to the normalcy of life and say goodbye to social distancing than an evening around a fire with family and friends. Even before the pandemic struck, a Houzz poll found that there was an increase of almost 20% in interactions with neighbors after a new outdoor project. The same poll found fire pits accounted for more than 30% of outdoor living space additions.
This is one landscape feature that is not limited to a particular size space. We can create a unit small enough to spend a cozy evening for two or large enough to entertain 20 or more. And while you shouldn’t overlook the intrinsic value, they offer much more. They provide an additional cooking area while diverting use away from the indoor oven and reducing the amount of heat inside. Food tastes great cooked over an open flame, and you can choose a fuel from gas, wood, or wood pellets.
They may also serve as the focal point of your landscape design, be the setting for intimate get-togethers or professional corporate outings and be used throughout the year. On top of that, your money is well spent. According to the National Association of Landscape Professionals, you can expect a return on your investment dollars of almost 78%. When the time comes to sell your property, Zillow reports that similar homes with fire pits sold for about 2.8% more. This is one project you’ll get your money’s worth on because it can be used year-round.
Our experts at Stone Age Masonry can help you find the perfect spot. We can build one out in the open, on a deck or patio, and even a covered pergola. We take pride in our fire pit creations, and they hold us true to our roots as stonemasons. In Manassas and the surrounding areas, we have established ourselves as the leading fire pit contractor.
Contact us today for a free estimate and let us fan the flames of tranquility on your property.
