Have you been shopping around for a new backyard fire pit and can't decide whether gas or wood burning would be better? Each one has benefits and drawbacks, so it boils down to personal preference.

In my own opinion, whether you go indoors or outdoors, nothing is ever going to beat a natural wood fire. Harnessing the energy of natural gas and the creation of liquefied petroleum gases such as propane are only recent developments in the history of mankind. The use of wood for fuel, however, is in our genes. To me, the smell, the crackle...everything about a wood fire is more comforting. It just goes with being outdoors, and that's what a backyard fire pit is all about.

There's nothing of the preparatory ritual: tramping through the woods, the gathering, cutting, and seasoning of the wood, the flight and smell of fresh-cut wood chips on an autumn day. The first blue curl of flame on dry tinder...none of that. With a gas fire pit, you just light a match, and poof! there's your heat. 

The funny thing is that what makes a wood burning fire attractive for one type of person can be a complete turn-off for someone else. That same smell and crackle we love so well can ruin a new leather skirt or jacket. Smoke always seems to follow you around and get in your face. While it may be fine for those who live near a wooded area and thrive on a great deal of exercise, unless you own a pick-up truck or can afford the delivery charges, wood fuel is going to cost you.

On the other hand, a wood burning fire pit is naturally less expensive to install, and little or no tech support is needed thereafter. Also, similar requirements need to be met when setting up either type of fire pit on your property, so depending on where the ideal place is going to be for your gas burner, costs could potentially add up or installation could

It becomes more complicated after you consider where you're going to have to run a gas line and how many lines you'll need. Then throw in the cost of a conversion kit and a gas hook-up if there isn't one already. In addition, propane tanks can be unsightly. You have to lug those around as well or have them delivered, and if you use your pit a lot, the cost can add up just as easily.

So it depends on individual preference and what's most important to you. Gas fire pits don't put out a huge flame, so if what you have in mind is a big, roaring fire you'll probably be happier going with wood. However, if you don't have a place to store wood or don't like the idea of cleaning out and disposing of ashes all the time, you'll want to consider gas. It's up to you, what your situation is, and what you'd rather spend your time and money doing. But DO enjoy getting outside under the stars with your backyard fire pit!