How to Extend Patio Season with an Outdoor Fireplace or Fire Pit
Cool Wisconsin evenings shouldn’t mean the end of patio season.
With the right outdoor fireplace or fire pit, you can turn chilly fall nights into some of the coziest moments of the year.
At Zillges Landscape, Fireplace & Excavation in Oshkosh, we specialize in creating outdoor living spaces that help you enjoy Wisconsin’s seasons year-round — whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering in October or sipping cocoa by the fire in February.
This guide will show you how to choose, design, and care for the perfect outdoor fire feature for your home.
Inside this post
In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn:
- How outdoor fireplaces and fire pits extend your patio season in Wisconsin
- The key differences between gas and wood fire features
- Local design tips for safety, comfort, and style
- How to plan a fire feature that complements your existing patio or landscaping
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to bring more warmth, light, and year-round usability to your outdoor space.
Step 1: Understand Why Fire Features Are a Must-Have
An outdoor fireplace or fire pit does more than heat your space — it transforms it. A crackling flame draws people together, adds visual interest, and creates an irresistible focal point for your backyard.
Here’s why Wisconsin homeowners love them:
- Extended usability: Stay outdoors comfortably through spring, fall, and even winter.
- Increased home value: Outdoor fire features rank among the top outdoor ROI projects.
- Inviting atmosphere: Firelight adds ambiance and enhances nighttime gatherings.
Whether you prefer modern elegance or rustic charm, fire adds that finishing touch that makes your outdoor space feel complete.
Step 2: Choose Between a Fireplace or Fire Pit
Before installation, think about how you’ll use your space most. Both fireplaces and fire pits offer warmth and beauty — but they suit different lifestyles.
| Feature | Fireplace | Fire Pit |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Direction | Forward, more controlled | 360° warmth all around |
| Design Impact | Architectural focal point | Social, casual centerpiece |
| Ideal For | Defined seating zones | Group gatherings & flexibility |
| Fuel Options | Gas or wood | Gas, propane, or wood |
Pro Tip: If you entertain often, a fire pit encourages conversation and flow. If you love structure and a built-in look, a fireplace may be the centerpiece your patio needs.
Step 3: Plan for Wisconsin’s Climate
Our weather is beautiful — and unpredictable. Designing your outdoor fire feature for year-round durability ensures it lasts decades, not just seasons.
Local design tips from Zillges experts:
- Shelter from wind: Place your fireplace or fire pit near a wall, pergola, or landscaping buffer.
- Choose freeze–thaw-resistant materials: Natural stone, pavers, and concrete built for Wisconsin conditions.
- Install proper drainage: Prevent water from pooling under the unit during freeze cycles.
- Plan gas lines early: Professional excavation and installation ensure safety and efficiency.
Step 4: Create the Complete Outdoor Experience
A fireplace or fire pit works best as part of a complete outdoor living design. Tie the feature into your patio, seating areas, lighting, and landscaping for a cohesive look.
Ways to elevate your space:
- Add built-in seating walls or paver patios around your fire feature.
- Use softscaping (plants, shrubs, privacy screens) to frame the space naturally.
- Layer lighting — path lights, wall sconces, and uplighting — to extend usability into the night.
Step 5: Partner with Local Experts
At Zillges Landscape, Fireplace & Excavation, we design, build, and install custom outdoor fire features throughout Oshkosh, Neenah, Appleton, and the Fox Valley. From concept to completion, our in-house team handles everything — excavation, masonry, gas line setup, and finishing details.
Whether you’re adding a simple fire pit or designing a full outdoor living area, we’ll bring warmth and style to your Wisconsin backyard.
Ready to Warm Up Your Backyard?
Bring the glow of fire to your home and extend your patio season for years to come.
👉
Contact Zillges Landscape, Fireplace & Excavation today to schedule your outdoor fire feature consultation.
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