5 Best Fire Pits for Composite Decks (Avoid the Deck Burn)

If you want to avoid your composite deck from getting torched, use a portable, elevated fire pit and a fireproof mat or a layer of metal or brick for heat insulation.

Best fire pits for composite decks come with a deep bowl design and spark screen and are far raised off the deck.

Top Options

Best Fire Pits For Composite Decks

1. Sunnydaze Copper Raised Outdoor Fire Pit Bowl with Spark Screen

Highlights 

• 7 inch (17.78 cm) clearance between deck and fire bowl to keep surface from burning 
• Deep fire bowl provides room for a layer of sand for extra heat insulation
• Spark screen keeps embers and sparks from flying out and burning deck
• Sturdy legs and broad base won’t tip over and burn deck
• Thick steel construction will last for years, providing good value for your money

Why It’s Great for Composite Decks 

This is the best fire pit for a composite deck because the broad, deep fire bowl will safely contain the burning wood. As well, it has room for a layer of sand at the bottom to insulate the deck from the heat of the fire, preventing damage to the composite deck. 

There’s a generous 7 inch (17.78 cm) gap between the bottom of the fire bowl and the ground, so there will be little heat transfer to the deck.

I like using the spark screen to avoid damaging your composite deck with flying embers. 

One problem with this composite deck fire pit is that it may rust easily, so cover it when rain is expected.

Material	Steel
Height	25.75 in (65.41 cm)
Weight	23 lbs (10.43 kg)
Diameter	32.25 in (81.9 cm)
Fuel Source	Wood
Deck Distance	7 in (17.78 cm)
Package Includes	Fire bowl, stand, spark screen, wood grate, poker

2. Sunnydaze Cast Iron Fire Pit with Built-In Log Rack

Highlights 

• Fire bowl sits 12 inches (30.48cm) above the deck to minimize heat transfer
• Built-in wood rack adds an extra layer of insulation between the fire and the deck
• Stable legs keep it from tipping over and spilling burning wood onto deck
• Handles make it easy to move from place to place on your deck
• Sturdy cast-iron construction will stay in good shape for years, saving you money

Why It’s Great for Composite Decks 

This is the best raised fire pit for a composite deck because it protects your composite deck by keeping the fire a full 12 inches (30.48 cm) above the surface. 

I found the built-in log rack to be very convenient, as well as providing some extra insulation between the fire bowl and the deck. 

The 5 mm thick cast iron construction means that it will last years without needing to be replaced, letting you spend on other outdoor amenities. 

It would have been nice to have a spark screen included, but it’s so reasonably priced that you can purchase a screen separately.

Material	Cast iron
Height	24 in (60.96 cm)
Weight	40.6 lbs (18.42 kg)
Diameter	30 in (76.2 cm)
Fuel Source	Wood
Deck Distance	12 in (30.48 cm)
Package Includes	Fire bowl, stand

3. Sunnydaze Rope and Barrel Gas Fire Pit Table with Lava Rocks

Highlights 

• Flame is safely contained 24 inches (60.96 cm) above the deck surface 
• Stable construction won’t tip over and burn decking
• Propane flame burns clean without embers that would damage the deck
• Cover protects the fire pit from rain or snow, extending its lifespan
• Control panel allows you to light the fire and regulate the flame for ease of use

Why It’s Great for Composite Decks 

This is the best gas fire pit for a composite deck, as can be safely operated without fear of damaging the surface.

I liked that the flame is 24 inches (60.96 cm) above the ground, so there’s no risk of contact with the composite deck. 

It’s the safest fire pit for a composite deck because of the fireproof ceramic construction and heavy weight that makes it extremely stable, with no chance that it will tip over and damage the deck. 

One possible issue with this fire pit is that the flame may go out if it’s too breezy, so it’s best to find a sheltered location for it.

Material	Ceramic
Height	24 in (60.96 cm)
Weight	74 lbs (33.57 kg)
Diameter	29 in (73.66 cm)
Fuel Source	Propane
Deck Distance	24 in (60.96cm)
Package Includes	Fire Pit, Burner, Rocks, Hose, AAA Battery, Cover

Related: 7 Best Propane Fire Pit Tables for Your Backyard

4. Sunnydaze Faux Stone Fire Pit Ring with Spark Screen

Highlights 

• Concrete outer walls keeps heat away from the deck
• Spark screen prevents embers and sparks from flying out and damaging deck
• Wood grate leaves room for a layer of sand at the bottom of the fire bowl 
• Built-in handles make it easy to move 
• Attractive design complements a variety of outdoor decors

Why It’s Great for Composite Decks 

This is the best elevated fire pit for a composite deck because the thick concrete and fiberglass outer walls provide good insulation. This keeps the heat from damaging the composite deck. 

I liked that it’s low to the ground and broad and heavy in design, making it extremely stable with no chance of tipping over and spilling burning wood onto the deck, making it a composite deck safe fire pit. 

It also has built-in handles so that it can be safely moved to various spots on your composite deck.  

One improvement to the design would be to have more distance from the fire bowl and the deck, but a good fire pit pad should solve that problem.

Material	Concrete and Steel
Height	21.25 in (53.98 cm)
Weight	50.8 lbs (23.04 kg)
Diameter	35.75 in (90.8 cm)
Fuel Source	Wood
Deck Distance	5.5 in (13.97 cm)
Package Includes	Fire Pit, Fire Bowl, Spark Screen, Wood Grate, Poker

5. Sunnydaze Outdoor Cast Stone Propane Gas Fire Pit with Lava Rocks

Highlights 

• Propane flame is in the center of the fire pit away from the deck surface
• Fireproof cast stone walls add an extra layer of insulation to prevent heat damage to the deck
• Low, wide design will keep it from tipping over and causing damage to the deck
• Built-in handles make it convenient to move when needed
• Control panel lets you easily start it and regulate the flame for safe operation

Why It’s Great for Composite Decks 

This is the best propane fire pit for a composite deck because the cast stone outer walls provide lots of insulation between the flame and the deck to prevent damage. 

I found it very easy to ignite the propane flame and regulate its size without worrying about it burning the deck. 

It also protects your composite deck because it has no sparks or embers like a wood fire does, so there’s nothing to fly out and burn the surface of the deck. 

The one issue I had with it was finding a spot to put the propane tank where the hose won’t be in the way, as it has to be placed away from the fire pit. 

Material	Ceramic
Height	9 in (22.86 cm)
Weight	63 lbs (28.58 kg)
Diameter	30 in (76.2 cm)
Fuel Source	Propane
Deck Distance	9 in (22.86 cm)
Package Includes	Fire Pit, Burner, Rocks, Hose, AAA Battery, Cover

Wood Burning vs. Gas Fire Pit 

Building a deck with composite lumber has become a popular option for homeowners, and choosing the right fire pit can help make it even more of a backyard oasis. 

You can use either wood burning or gas fire pits for composite decks. Gas models are the best choice for a composite deck fire pit, as there is little to no chance of your deck being damaged. 

However, they are more expensive and don’t have the same crackling fire and comfy heat of a wood burning fire. 

While you can use a wood burning fire pit as a composite deck fireplace, it’s essential to use a heat shield and pay attention to minimum setbacks to prevent damage to your composite deck.

Choosing a Wood Burning Fire Pit for Composite Deck 

When selecting a wood burning fire pit for a composite deck, look for a clearance between the fire bowl and the deck of at least 5 inches and preferably 7 or more.

Material 

A wood burning fire pit for a composite deck has to be made of thick, sturdy metal, such as cast iron, steel, or copper. These are all fireproof and durable, and will keep the burning wood safely contained so that there is no chance of fire damaging the composite deck. 

Distance From Deck 

There has to be a gap between the bottom of the fire bowl and the surface of the deck so that the direct heat from the wood fire will not damage the composite deck surface. While a minimum of 5 inches may be safe, it’s best to go with a clearance of 7 inches or higher.

Deep Bowl Design 

A wood burning fire pit with a deep bowl without any perforations or holes will provide more protection for your composite deck. That way, you will have room to add a few inches of sand at the bottom of the bowl. This adds an extra layer of insulation between the heat of the fire and your composite deck.

Spark Screen 

Pro Tip: You should always have a spark screen for a wood burning fire pit on a composite deck, and many models come with one. A spark screen will keep sparks and embers from flying up and landing on your composite deck and damaging the surface, or causing a serious fire.

Fire Pit Pad 

Invest in a good fire pit pad for the deck surface. Made of stone or metal, the best pads extend out beyond the diameter of the fire pit with all legs standing on the pad. This is an essential layer of protection from the heat of the fire, as well as embers, sparks, and ash that could damage the deck.

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