GFRC vs Concrete vs Stainless Steel Fire Pits: Only 1 Winner

Fire pits are a must-have backyard accessory. But what makes one fire pit better than another? From the rugged resilience of GFRC to classic concrete and the sleek allure of stainless steel, the material you choose can define your outdoor oasis for years to come.

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The Classic: Concrete Fire Pit
The Innovator: The Outdoor Plus GFRC Fire Pit
The Heat Master: Stainless Steel Fire Pit
GFRC vs Concrete vs Stainless Steel Fire Pits: The Winner

The Classic: Concrete Fire Pit

Concrete– the tried-and-true workhorse of the fire pit world. It's sturdy, it's reliable, and it's been around forever. Concrete fire pit tables certainly have their perks. They're tough as, well, concrete, and can stand up to whatever nature throws their way. Although chipping can be an issue because color is not cast through the concrete, which makes chips and damage stand out. They're also very heavy, which means shipping them is expensive. 

If you're looking to embrace the latest and greatest in outdoor gas fire pit luxury, think twice before settling for concrete. Concrete fire pit tables have a classic look, but have limited design options. So why stick with the status quo when you could blaze trails with something a little more cutting-edge? Something like...

The Innovator: The Outdoor Plus GFRC Fire Pit

Enter the new world of GFRC fire pits– GFRC stands for Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete. Think of it as concrete on steroids. Thanks to the mix of glass fiber material, GFRC concrete is lighter and withstands heat better than traditional concrete. It's highly resistant to weathering and erosion. Plus, the color is cast all the way through the material, so even if it did chip, it's not noticeable and doesn't detract from the look of your fire pit. 

Advantages of GFRC Fire Pits

1. Durability and Strength: GFRC boasts exceptional toughness. The material is specially formulated to withstand high temperatures, making it an ideal choice for safely containing fires and keeping heat while also standing up to harsh weather and wear.

2. Minimal Maintenance: GFRC fire pits require minimal upkeep. With basic periodic cleaning to maintain their appearance and functionality, GFRC fire pits can provide years of enjoyment.

3. Design Flexibility and Customization: Whether you're a minimalist at heart or a maximalist with a flair for the dramatic, GFRC fire pits have got you covered. With endless design possibilities, like a sleek polished look or a textured finish resembling natural stone, GFRC fire pits offer a wide range of finish options so you can unleash your creativity and tailor your fire pit to reflect your unique style.

GFRC vs Concrete

1. Lightweight: Despite their strength, GFRC fire pits are surprisingly lightweight compared to concrete. This can be a huge help with shipping costs and ease of installation.

2. Enhanced Crack Resistance: Traditional concrete can crack under heat. The glass fiber reinforced material of GFRC withstands heat better and has superior crack resistance.

3. Longevity: Traditional concrete fire pit tables feature a painted exterior. This fades over time and is prone to chips and cracks. The Outdoor Plus GFRC concrete fire pit tables are cast with color all the way through and UV coated to protect their color from fading. With proper care, GFRC fire pits maintain their attractiveness for many years.

With unmatched durability, lightweight design, and endless customization options, it's no wonder GFRC is stealing the spotlight from concrete in the world of outdoor gas fire pits. But it's not the only star of the show.

The Heat Master: Stainless Steel Fire Pit

Stainless steel. A Stainless steel fire pit is the epitome of modern elegance in the world of fire pits. With sleek lines, a polished finish, and the promise of enduring sophistication, this fire pit material is hard to ignore.

Advantages of a Stainless Steel Fire Pit

Stainless steel isn't just a pretty exterior– it's built to last. These fire pits handle the highest heat out of all the fire pit materials, so if you're looking to get the most warmth out of your fire pit, this may be the way to go. 

Of course, the biggest attraction of stainless steel for most people is the aesthetics. There's something about stainless steel that screams luxury. Whether you're going for a sleek, modern look or a more industrial vibe, stainless steel fire pits add a touch of sophistication to any outdoor space.

Disadvantages of a Stainless Steel Fire Pit

Don't take that sleek and glamorous look of a stainless steel fire pit for granted. It takes some extra TLC to maintain such a pristine aesthetic. Because stainless steel isn't completely stainless– it's more like "harder to stain" Steel. Steel itself rusts. But stainless steel has a layer of protection called chromium oxide, which resists rust and stains. If this layer gets damaged, that's when rust can appear in the places where the protective layer has been compromised. The good news is that with regular cleaning and care, the chromium oxide layer is self healing. And there are many simple cleaning solutions to reverse the damage if a little rust ever takes hold.

GFRC vs Concrete vs Stainless Steel Fire Pits: The Winner

Though concrete was once the fire pit go-to, its tendency to crack and the weight of the material has made this an outdated option for modern fire pits. GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) and stainless steel have emerged as front-runners for the best fire pit material.

For low maintenance and expansive style options:

GFRC fire pits offer a blend of toughness and versatility that surpasses any other material. With its lightweight design, crack resistance, and customizable finishes, GFRC is the best durable and low-maintenance option for outdoor gas fire pits.

For sleek style and high heat:

Stainless steel fire pits exude modern elegance and boast the highest heat resistance for both warmth and sophistication. While they require a bit more upkeep to maintain their pristine look, the allure of stainless steel is undeniable and adds a touch of luxury to any outdoor setting.

In the end, whether you opt for the rugged resilience of GFRC or the sleek allure of stainless steel, investing in a fire pit that aligns with your style and practical needs can elevate your outdoor oasis now and long into the future. Choose wisely and let your fire pit become the centerpiece of unforgettable gatherings under the open sky.

For more help to pick the perfect outdoor gas fire pit, check out our complete guide- Flame On: The Outdoor Plus Lake House Fire Pit Buying Guide. It's full of expert tips and recommendations on selecting the perfect fire pit for your outdoor space.

Or speak with a friendly expert.

We'd be glad to tell you anything more you want to know. Just drop us a line at sales@lakehouseandcottage.com or call us at 854-777-0909 Mon-Fri 9a-5p CST with all your fire pit questions.