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Do You Need a Wind Guard For a Fire Pit?
Quick answer: A wind guard isn’t always required, but it’s highly recommended if you live in a windy area, want a more stable flame, or need added safety around kids or pets. In calm conditions, many high-quality fire pits can function without one.
One of the most common questions we get from customers shopping for a fire pit is whether they need to buy a tempered glass wind guard for it. Any outdoor fire feature is going to be subject to the elements, so it's a natural concern. Just as a quality fire pit cover or burner cover can protect your fire pit from rain, snow, and debris when it's not in use, a high-quality glass fire pit wind guard can keep your fire pit functioning effectively during a breezy evening.
We wouldn't necessarily say that everyone needs a wind guard for their fire pit. If you've purchased a high-quality gas fire pit from Firepits Direct, it's likely that the burner is powerful enough to handle a light crosswind without much trouble. However, if you live in a particularly breezy area, it can be a great way to keep that flame tall, bright, and proud, letting you get more enjoyment out of your fire pit. Our fire pit specialists recommend wind guards for customers in open or elevated outdoor spaces. As an added bonus, they can provide a degree of safety, keeping curious kids and pets from getting too close to the flame.
When You Should vs. Should Not Use a Wind Guard
| Use One If: | You May Not Need One If: |
| You live in a windy area, or your fire pit is on an elevated surface. | You have a sheltered patio. |
| Your flame is weak or keeps going out. | You have a fire feature with a high-BTU burner. |
| You want a cleaner, taller flame. | Your fire pit is mostly for decorative use. |
| You have kids and/or pets. | You rarely use your fire pit in breezy conditions. |
What Size Wind Guard Should I Get for My Fire Pit?
Firstly, you'll want to make sure you select a wind guard that matches the shape of your fire pit. We carry round, square, rectangular, and linear wind guards to suit the most common shapes of fire pit, but we can also work with our manufacturing partners to create a custom wind guard if you've got an atypical design.
Round Wind Guards
Best for circular fire pits, bowls, and round burner layouts.
Square Wind Guards
Ideal for square fire pits and compact fire table designs.
Rectangular Wind Guards
Great for longer fire tables and rectangular burner setups.
Linear Wind Guards
Designed for narrow, modern fire features and linear burners.
Sizing tip: We recommend that the wind guard be at least 2.5 inches away from the burner in all directions.
For example, if you've got a fire pit with a 36" x 12" burner, we'd recommend a glass wind guard that is at least 41" x 17" to ensure proper clearances on all sides. Fortunately, when shopping for wind guards here at Firepits Direct, you can easily filter your search by shape and size, making it a snap to find a wind guard that will fit your fire pit. Find Your Exact Fit in Seconds →
If your fire pit is an atypical size, we are happy to help you design a custom wind guard to match. For best results on a custom design, we recommend reaching out to our team to discuss details.
What Are Fire Pit Wind Guards Made Of?
While we can't vouch for big box stores or general online retailers, here at Firepits Direct all our wind guards are made from high-quality tempered glass. Tempered glass goes through a treatment process that makes it strong and safer, especially in a situation where it will be repeatedly exposed to heat, like in a fire pit wind guard. Tempered glass is roughly four times as strong as traditional glass, and if it does break, it is designed to fracture into small granular chunks rather than sharp shards, keeping you and your family safe.
Will a Wind Guard Affect My Fire Pit's Heat Output?
There are too many factors to say exactly how much it could impact heat output, but suffice to say that it is possible. The wind guard places a barrier between you and the flame, which could reduce heat. However, the wind guard will also keep the flame from flickering and weakening due to wind. Wind is a common reason for heat loss in a glass fire pit, so reducing its impact could offset the losses caused by the wind guard. In short, there is the possibility, but it's unlikely to make a noticeable difference in most circumstances.
Join Kelly as she answers one of the most popular questions people ask when buying a fire pit:
FAQ
Do wind guards make fire pits safer?
Yes, they create a barrier that helps prevent accidental contact with the flame.
Do wind guards reduce heat?
Slightly, but they also prevent heat loss from wind.
Can you use a fire pit without a wind guard?
Yes, especially in calm conditions.
Where Can I Find a Wind Guard for My Fire Pit?
This question is easy to answer: right here at Firepits Direct. We carry glass fire pit wind guards from the top manufacturers and brands in the industry, in a huge variety of sizes and shapes, ensuring there's something for almost everyone.
Final Thoughts
A glass wind guard can help keep your flame more stable, improve your fire pit experience in breezy conditions, and add a polished finishing touch to your outdoor fire feature. If you need help choosing the right size, finding a compatible shape, or planning a custom wind guard, contact our product specialists for expert guidance.
