Outdoor fire pit products are manufactured from many different materials and in many different designs. In this article we will explore some of these materials and their usage.

Mild steel is probably the most used metal for manufacturing outdoor fire pits. Mild steel is a very durable metal and is the least expensive metal used for outdoor fire pit manufacturing. When used in a heavy gauge or thickness, it can last a long time if properly cared for. Ten gauge is a unit of measure for metal and is approximately one quarter inch thick. It will tolerate heat well without burning through when properly cared for. Thin gauge mild steel will only last for a few seasons and will need to be replaced because it will burn through and be unsafe.

Stainless steel is more expensive than mild steel due to the nickel content used in the manufacturing process. It does not rust and will last almost indefinitely if cared for properly. A thinner or lower gauge metal can be used for building outdoor fire pits when using stainless steel. Stainless steel and mild steel are comparable in weight in the same thickness or gauge.

Copper is a material that is not used very often for outdoor fire pit manufacturing due to the high cost. It is very durable and will last a lifetime when used and cared for properly. It is heavier in weight than stainless or mild steel when comparing the same thickness or gauge.

Cast iron metal used as an outdoor fire pit material is very durable and inexpensive but is heavy and not easily moved about. It will last indefinitely if properly cared for.

Cast aluminum is a very durable metal that is used for outdoor fire pits and chimineas. It is not too heavy to move about and is more expensive in cost than cast iron but not as expensive as copper. It has become more popular in the last few years and is very durable.