Wednesday, March 27, 2024
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Fire Pit With Metal Cover

Living With Metal Fire Pit Covers And Lids

Covered Fire Pit 6: Stain, Purlins, Hood Fabrication and Roof Metal

If your fire pit metal cover does end up corroding, it doesnt have to mean that you should buy another one immediately. For each of the materials weve mentioned above, theres a way to get rid of rust take the time to google some info about your specific lid and other peoples opinions, as well as watch a few YouTube tutorials on how to tackle rust on metal objects. After all, the price of the metal fire pit cover isnt something to be taken lightly most of the time, so be prepared to put in some extra work into it after the 2-year mark.

Damage From The Elements

Let’s cover a few things that are going to give your gas fire pit trouble if don’t protect it adequately.

Fire Pit Rust Due to Moisture

Damp conditions, whether in the form of rain, fog, humidity, etc. can wreak havoc on the metal components of your fire pit. Stainless steel doesnt mean rust-free, it means rust-resistant.

Even the most well-made gas burner assemblies will experience rusting at some point, there’s really no getting around it.


In addition, the fire pits metal housing, frame, and all the little metal fittings that make it work are susceptible to rust too.

As fire pit parts rust over, they will eventually begin to weaken. For parts exposed to high-heat conditions, the destructive effects of oxidation will speed up.

Fire pit rust is going to be the primary reason you should use a fire pit cover. Rust will literally eat away at your propane fire pit if you let it.

Fire Pit Damage from UV Rays

From the moment you set your new gas fire pit on your patio, the sun’s ultraviolet rays will begin to break down the plastics, paint coating, rubber, and any other materials it’s made of, that are exposed to direct sunlight.

Combining this with the other environmental elements, it’s not surprising how quickly things start to deteriorate and eventually fall apart.


The first sign of this breakdown is the fading of a surfaces original color. It doesnt get any better from here if fire pit components are continuously exposed to direct sunlight.

Fire Pit Damage from Pests

Double Flame Lid For Fire Pit

The American made Double Flame stainless steel fire pit lid is double as fast to put the fire out when you dont feel like hanging around the pit anymore. Made out of 304 stainless steel, this 19 smoke-reducing cover will shield your fire pit from the elements and because its completely flat, save for the spacious handle on top, it can double as a tabletop on which to put drinks, appetizers or even smaller plates.

As it often happens with tight-fitting metal outdoor fire pit covers that are round in shape, the lid isnt meant to endure heavy rain or stay underneath the snow during the winter, because it will allow water to seep through the millimeter of space between the fire pit and the lid, and soak the ashes left inside. This, in turn, may cause the fire pit to rust from the inside, which can make the cover redundant. However, this isnt likely to happen if you use an additional water-resistant fabric fire pit cover, or if youre really living in harsh weather conditions, consider investing into fire pit lids made out of heavy-duty metal.

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Higley Fire Pit Covers & Screens Fire Pit Lid

Our second choice is the impressive, 39-inch Higley fire pit lid is a round, conical dome-shaped cover that fits a lot of different-sized fire pits and will make water and snow trickle off of it without an issue. The modern-looking steel fire pit cover dons a universally flattering bronze color that fits into almost every scene, and the minimal look is enhanced by a stylish metal logo panel of the company that is positioned on one side of the lid.


While the company itself takes an honest and no-nonsense approach with its customers, openly stating that this beautiful lid allows only minimal leakage, due to the fact that nothing can prevent 100% of water and fluids from getting to your fire pit, the customers have all been pleasantly surprised by the craftsmanship and care that went into making this fire pit lid cover.

The Higley fire pit cover lays surprisingly flat on the surface and protects your fire pit from the harsh elements, be it rain, snow, or even the sun, which can dry out and damage certain materials. The cover has two metal handles on both sides of the fire pit cover, which allow for easy handling, regardless of the weight.

Selection And Use Of A Gas Fire Pit Cover

Sunnydaze Fire Pit Spark Screen Cover

Covering your gas fire pit when not in use is just one step in keeping it working right and looking good. Regular inspection and preventive maintenance along with regular use of a fire pit cover are what will give your fire pit a long life.

Just putting a cover on and calling it good is not a silver bullet. More on inspecting and maintaining your gas fire pit in a bit.

With that out of the way, let’s talk about selecting a cover and how to use it to protect your fire pit.


Covered Fire Pit Image Credits: Covers & All / Coverstore

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Commercial Outdoor Patio Fire Safety Tips

Owners and operators of outdoor patios and dining areas are responsible for:

  • the safe installation, operation and maintenance of their patio heating units
  • abiding by all safety instructions outlined in the operating manual for their heating appliances
  • ensuring staff understand how to safely operate the heating units and handle propane cylinders
  • ensuring compliance with any municipal requirements and applicable codes, and shall not create a hazard eg. enclosures, obstructed exist, etc.
  • ensuring all electrical installations are approved for outdoor use and comply with Canadian Electrical Code

Richmond Hill Fire and Emergency Services encourages all owners and operators to consult with TSSA’s Patio Heater Safety Guidelines and NFPA’s Outdoor Patio Heaters Fact Sheet.

Shopping For A Gas Fire Pit Cover

Unless your fire pit came with a cover made just for it, you will most likely have to buy a third-party pre-manufactured or custom fire pit cover.


look for fire pit covers that offer a weather-resistant material, such as plastic, metal, or outdoor fabric. A cover should fit tightly enough that strong winds wont work it loose and send it sailing.

Lets go over some of the basics of selecting a cover thats right for you:

  • Remember when shopping, a larger cover is better than one that is too small and doesnt fit properly Looking at the quote above from HGTV, I would replace the word tightly with the word snug, if that can be achieved if your cover fits and it’s a little oversized, it can be cinched down with its adjustable straps and/or elastic drawstring, if those features are present
  • Measure and record the height of your fire pit from the uppermost edge to the ground, as well as its length and width if you have a round gas fire pit, record the diameter since that is how they are typically sold see how to measure graphics below for more

Instructions Image Credit: The Coverstore

  • Narrow your options down by round, square, or rectangular cover depending on your situation a round fire pit cover will work on smaller square gas fire pits so consider them an option as well be careful though about fit on the corners, as they will chafe through over time if the cover is too tight

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Best Score: Saking Fire Pit Cover28 Inch Firepit Covers Square Gas Fireplace Fire Pit Table Cover For Propane Fire Pit

Providing a stylish and easy-to-use fire pit cover, our 28 inch square gas fireplace table cover is perfect for any propane or charcoal-fired fire pit. The versatile and durable design will help you enjoy your favorite outdoor activity with all the security and convenience of a modern day fireplace.

Common Gas Fire Pit Problems Related To Weather And Pests

Stainless Steel Conical Sloped Fire Pit Cover. Swirl Finish.

Direct exposure to sun, wind, rain, snow, intense heat, extreme cold, etc., and the presence of common rodents do a number on all your property left outside throughout the year. Some of it is designed for that and some arent.


Even if the weather in your area is pretty mild, items you own are breaking down structurally in your backyard and will fail at some point, just at a much slower pace.

Your gas fire pit is one of these items and like most things youll start to have problems at some point if you dont protect it.

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Firebuggz Snuffer Fire Pit Cover

When we say that the Firebuggz fire pit covers that feature round metal are heavy-duty, we do mean that literally. This sturdy and impressive lid weighs a staggering 25 pounds and is made of durable stainless steel that will keep your fire pit area squeaky clean close to no water, leaves, dirt or debris.

One unique trait about this fire pit stainless steel cover is that its completely flat and has a hinge in the middle that allows it to be stored easily by folding it in half, which means that in the months you dont use it, it wont take up too much space in your garage. The built-in handles are designed to ensure easy transport of this hefty metal lid. As far as the dimensions go, the outer diameter of the pit measure 32, with the handle cut-outs positioned 1 from the outer edge. Speaking of the edge, make sure to get a rubber trim because the edges of this lid are pretty sharp and could result in a cut.


  • Turns the pit into a table

Types Of Fire Pit Covers

  • Stainless steel fire pit covers are lids that fit over burner pans to protect the burner.
  • Spark Screens cover the fire pit to prevent embers from popping out, keeping your guest and patio safe.
  • Wind Shields are made of glass that protects the flames from cross winds to make a fire pit table enjoyable more often. The reflection of the flame off the glass adds to the ambiance.

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What Style Should I Get

Flat metal covers are great if your fire media doesnt mound up past your fire pit top. You can place them over the opening right after you turn the fire off. With canvas or vinyl, you have to allow it to cool down first. These are also great for turning your fire feature into a table when not in use.

Canvas and Vinyl covers are perfect for covering the entire structure. If you plan on using a fire media that mounds up, such as logs or cannonballs, this is the option for you. They are easily customizable through our affiliate site, Covers and All.

Using Your Gas Fire Pit Cover

Round Steel Fire Pit Cover Snuffer  Knobs Ideas Site

Lets go over a few pointers you can use each time prior to when you plan to cover your fire pit.

These tips will help your fire pit continue to perform well and save you time on the next occasion that you use it.

  • Common sense here, but make sure your gas fire pit is completely cooled before covering it
  • Turn off the gas supply
  • Wipe down all surfaces and make sure your burner pan is clean and dry and that all drain holes are clear of obstructions
  • Consult with your manufacturer or installer before using a general-purpose cleaner on your fire pits surfaces
  • Remove metal surface rust as needed from unpainted metal surfaces with metal polish or other methods prescribed by your manufacturer
  • Remove your fire pits wind guard and store it safely until the next use you risk damaging it when covering and uncovering your gas fire pit
  • Consider placing a moisture-absorbing product/desiccant like DampRid in the cabinet portion of your fire pit prior to covering this will help keep the internal space drier and help prevent the rusting of internal metal parts recommended only if your gas fire pit has a completely enclosed cabinet space underneath

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Some Final Gas Fire Pit Cover Tips

  • Take your time when measuring your gas fire pit for a cover. You know the saying in woodworking, measure twice, cut once? the saying applies here as well, but instead of cutting you are buying your cover
  • Save yourself the trouble of having to return a non-fitting cover to the store or online supplier see the gas fire pit cover measurement how-to graphics above
  • If youve bought an expensive fire pit, dont go cheap on your cover check to see if your manufacturer/installer makes or can point you to a cover specifically made for your model fire pit they may even give you one if you ask nicely
  • If you buy from a third party, dont overpay, but make sure to focus on fit and good construction there are a lot of cheap junk covers on the market that will fade and have wear holes in a matter of weeks
  • If you cant make up your mind or are waiting for a custom cover to be made in the interim, a nylon tarp with a few bungee cords will work in a pinch it wont look that great but it will protect your fire pit until you have a long-term solution
  • If you have trouble finding a solid gas fire pit cover locally or through traditional online channels, check out the Coverstore or Covers & All for a wide variety of pre-made and custom fire pit covers both make a good product, offer lots of options, ordering is easy, and they have sales all the time
  • Use your cover get in the habit of using it every time you have a fire

Do You Need A Gas Fire Pit Cover

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You’ve got a new propane or natural gas fire pit and you naturally want to keep it looking good and working to spec. One of the easiest ways to make that happen is to protect your fire pit or fire table from the elements, rain, hail, wild animals, the kids from the neighborhood, etc., by using a gas fire pit cover.

You may have received a cover with your gas fire pit but the ones that come in the box are cheaply made and rarely hold up more than a couple of seasons. That is if you are even using it. Whether you’ve purchased a gas fire pit for $3,000 or $300, the question of whether to use a cover or not is a no-brainer.

Let’s move on

Generally speaking, gas fire pits should be covered when not in use. Covering protects the burner and structural components from the elements, minimizing oxidation and other damage to metal surfaces. Covers also keep small animals and insects from making a home in and potentially damaging your fire pit.

Besides keeping your gas fire pit clean and dry, fire pit covers and a variety of other proactive steps will extend the life of your fire pit and keep your overall cost of ownership to a minimum.

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Heininger Black Fire Pit Cover

The Heininger fire pit cover looks very similar to the Outland Firebowl one and features the same carrying strap mechanism. It is convenient, practical, simple-looking, lightweight and advertised as a cover that can last you through the whole four seasons without an issue. It measures 18.75 in diameter and, similarly to the Outland one, its specifically designed to fit the Heininger #5995 fire pit.

It will keep the elements from the inside of the pit, prolonging its rust-free life. However, the main two downsides of this gas fire pit cover are that its thin and the cover doesnt cover the gas control knob which, if left unprotected, could rust fairly quickly when covered in snow. Additionally, the handle isnt permanently attached to the cover, so it has a tendency to slip and slide so carrying this lightweight lid around turns out to be a tricky task after all.

Outland Firebowl Cover & Carry Kit

How To Make A No-Weld Steel Fire Pit

Coming from a well-known company that specializes in making gas fire pits comes the simple, yet practical Outland Firebowl gas fire pit lid that measures 19 in diameter and is made specifically for the popular Outland Firebowl and Firebowl Deluxe fire pits.

As most metal gas fire pit covers, the Outland one is lightweight, due to the fact that its meant for portable fire pits that are lightweight as well due to their build and purpose. This fire pit cover uses a reinforced user-friendly carry handle on top of the lid that is connected to the bottom of the steel lid by nylon straps with four strings at the end. This makes the lid and the whole fire pit a joy to carry and handle on your various camping trips, picnics, and outings.

The durable and water-resistant design of this practical metal fire pit lid will prolong the lifespan of your trusty fire pit and make that investment even cheaper! However, there are downsides to this seemingly perfect round fire pit cover and one of the main flaws is in the sturdiness and overall quality of the straps that are prone to tearing, so be careful with that and, if you have the time and the patience, do reinforce the stitching in the handle area in order to prevent the strap from tearing.

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