Fire pits, fireplaces, and other outdoor hardscaping fire features bring a warm, gorgeous, glowing aspect to your backyard all year long. When winter's frosty temperatures and precipitation arrive, however, you need to take some extra steps to prevent damage to your favorite fire-producing appliances. Here's how to winterize these features before the cold weather peaks.

How to Protect Your Outdoor Fire Features This Winter

1. Close the Gas Valve

If your outdoor fire pit or fireplace runs on natural gas, you need to close the gas valve at the beginning of winter. This prevents moisture from building up inside the line, which can freeze when the temperature drops. Since water expands when it turns to ice, it could cause the line to rupture. You can still use the feature throughout the season, but always turn the gas off immediately when you're done.

2. Add a Cover

A well-fitting cover or tarp is a key component of winterizing your fire pit. If it's left uncovered, the materials will be exposed to moisture and freeze-thaw cycles that can cause damage. Depending on the exact materials used to construct the pit, it could lead to a variety of undesirable outcomes, including rust development, cracking, and mold growth.

3. Store Accessories

Many of the accessories used with fire pits and fireplaces are made out of metal and wood, like pokers and logs. When these types of materials are left out in the rain and snow, they are prone to rust, rot, and mold. Rotten wood can also attract pests, like termites and carpenter ants, that can lead to household infestations. Store accessories in an outdoor container or shed or a dry, indoor room, like the basement or garage, when they're not in use.

4. Remove Snow & Ice

Even a small amount of snow and ice can cause problems with your stone hardscaping features. Due to the expansion and contraction that occurs every time ice melts and refreezes, the natural materials used to construct your fire pit or fireplace can crack from the stress. After each storm, brush away snow with a broom before it has a chance to melt to prevent refreezing and subsequent damage.

If you need help maintaining or expanding the fire features or other hardscaping elements in your backyard, you can count on the team at Lexington Cut Stone. These trusted natural stone experts have been creating breathtaking custom features for homes and businesses across central Kentucky since 1921. Whether you want a fire pit, outdoor kitchen, or new patio, they are capable of handling jobs of all sizes. Visit the website to learn more, or call (859) 255-2496 to get started on your custom design.