What’s better than spending a warm evening with friends and family, grilling steaks or just gazing into the flames of a fire pit on your deck? That kind of connection to nature clears the mind and relaxes the body. A wooden deck sets the mood perfectly. You’re unwinding, getting drowsy – then suddenly you smell smoke. Moments later, you realize the cozy fire has become an actual fire. This isn’t just a dramatic story – it’s a very real risk.
Most backyard decks are built from softwood. It’s affordable, natural, and easy to work with. But when it comes to fire safety, softwood isn’t ideal. So, is it safe to place a fire pit or grill on a wooden deck? Technically, yes – but only if you take serious precautions. Rubber mats, metal pads, or stone bases can help reduce the danger. But let’s be honest: once the drinks start flowing and everyone’s relaxed, safety isn’t always top of mind. That’s why reputable decking suppliers often recommend reviewing fire safety ratings before choosing any wood for outdoor use.
Not All Wood Is Created Equal: Softwood vs. Hardwood
In Canada, most decks are made from pine or spruce – affordable and easy to install, but a nightmare around fire. These woods:
- Catch fire faster than you can say “s’mores.”
- Crack and warp under heat.
- Don’t forgive mistakes: one spark, and your deck wears a permanent burn mark.
Now imagine the same deck, but built with IPE or Balau hardwood. The fire’s burning, but the surface stays cool – like the Night King’s heart in Game of Thrones. With a Class A fire rating, hardwood is practically fireproof. It can take an hour of intense heat and still hold its shape. That’s thanks to its dense grain and natural oils that resist ignition. With hardwood, those stray sparks from the fire pit? Not an issue.
Why Hardwood Is Like Armor for Your Deck?
Hardwood isn’t just “better wood.” It’s a whole different category:
✅ Dense and oily, it resists combustion.
✅ Doesn’t warp, crack, or melt under heat.
✅ Tough against the elements – rain, snow, sun? No problem.
✅ And best of all, it looks amazing. Your deck becomes more than a platform – it’s a lifestyle centerpiece.
People often argue that softwood is cheaper. Sure, but coating it with stain or varnish doesn’t solve the problem. In fact, most stains and varnishes make it more flammable. Fire-retardant treatments are expensive, don’t last forever, and don’t match the natural look of hardwood. When you add up the costs and risks, softwood starts to look like a bad investment. Hardwood might cost more upfront, but it pays off in safety, longevity, and aesthetics.
So – Can You Put a Fire Pit on a Wooden Deck?
To be clear:
On softwood? No – unless you’re ready to gamble with fire.
On hardwood? Yes – but take precautions.
✔️ Use a heat-resistant base like metal, stone, or tempered glass.
✔️ Give it breathing room – don’t crowd it.
✔️ Keep it away from overhangs, trees, or anything flammable above.
✔️ Always have water or sand nearby – seriously.
✔️ Consider a gas-powered fire pit for maximum safety (no open flames or sparks).
A fire pit isn’t a toy – but with the right materials, you can enjoy it safely. Choose IPE, Balau or other dense hardwoods, including some of the best exotic woods Canada has to offer, and your deck can handle just about anything – harsh Canadian winters, blazing summer fires, even an angry mother-in-law.
The biggest risks include:
Deck damage or fire from heat or sparks.
Personal injury from burns or uncontrolled fires.
Violation of local fire codes, which could lead to fines or liability.
Key safety tips include:
Use a fire-resistant barrier, such as a fire pit pad or heat shield under the fire pit.
Place the fire pit at least 10 feet away from walls, railings, and furniture.
Choose a fire pit with a spark screen to reduce flying embers.
Never leave the fire unattended and keep a fire extinguisher or hose nearby.
Avoid windy conditions to prevent spreading sparks.
Yes. Gas fire pits are typically safer than wood-burning ones because they don’t produce embers or intense radiant heat. If you must use a wood-burning pit, prioritize those with:
Built-in spark arrestors
Raised bases
Insulated bottoms
It depends on your local bylaws and fire regulations. Always check with your:
City or municipal fire department
Homeowners association (HOA) if applicable
Some areas completely ban open flames on wooden surfaces, while others may allow them with specific safety setups.
Use non-combustible materials such as:
Deck protectors/fire pit mats
Paver stones or tiles
Heat shields
Avoid placing the pit directly on the wood.
