Propane Fire Tables
As the summer begins to wind down I noticed for the first time last night that the sun was starting to set A LOT earlier 
than just a couple of weeks back. No doubt about it Mother Nature is about to flip that switch and the cooler evenings will be here in no time. Don’t let that stop your outdoor entertaining, though, extend the season with an outdoor propane fire table.
Light up your backyard and keep you and your guests cozy and warm throughout the fall and even into the winter! Before you do there are a few things to consider. We’ve done our research and this guide will help get you on your way to finding the perfect fire table for your space!
Style
It used to be that you’d only see gas fire tables at fancy hotels or restaurants but these days they are more affordable and found in a lot of backyards. Fire tables are available in all shapes and sizes so think about whether you need a square or would an octagonal shape make more sense. Bowl designs work well in more modern settings. For smaller areas, lighter more portable tables make sense. For larger outdoor spaces consider a stationary round or square gathering table.
Size
Know the dimensions. Perhaps you are thinking about swapping an existing conversation table for a fire table. Take measurements to find a similar size. Also consider whether you’d like more surface / table top area over fire area or the other way around. Height is a consideration as well as there are pub height tables available. It’s best to know your space and the size requirements as you don’t want the fire table overtake the area. The largest fire tables are about 40″-45″ in diameter so know what size works best ahead of time.
Related Article: DIY Fire Pit Kits
Materials and Finish
Think about your backyard and whether you want a fire pit to complement the existing decor or really stand out and be a focal point. Fire tables come in just about any finish you can imagine in an outdoor environment from a stone or slate finish to a wood-look, or concrete to wrought iron.
Stone
If there is an existing slate or stone patio, there are many stone looking fire tables available today which can blend nicely with the patio design. Check out our pick for stone!
Aluminum
Fire tables constructed from aluminum can achieve a variety of looks from rustic to modern. Some even match a wood stain making them a nice addition to an existing deck. Our pick for aluminum tables!
Concrete
Perfectly suited for some patios, concrete fire tables are durable in any outdoor climate. The high-end models are glass reinforced adding beautiful color and texture to the tables. Obviously these aren’t going to be very portable so make sure you’re going to be happy with the location if you decide on one a concrete fire table. See our pick for concrete tables!
Granite
To really bring the indoors outside consider a fire table with a polished granite top like a kitchen countertop. Just like indoor countertops granite can take a beating and will hold up in the elements outside. Check out our pick for granite!
Related Article: Easy Backyard Fire Pit Ideas
Warmth vs. Aesthetics
A BTU or, British Thermal Unit is a unit of measure used to measure the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of liquid water by one degree Fahrenheit. Propane fire tables are measured in BTU’s and they range from 40,000 to 60,000 more or less. In general the more BTU’s the warmer the fire will be taking into consideration the space between the fire and you. If you are trying to accomplish the “fire look” without the heat shoot for fewer BTU’s. No matter the BTU’s you select most fire tables and pits for that matter come with push button ignition so you can start your fire instantly.
Accessories
One of the advantages to gas fire tables or fire pits it the ability to have a variety of alternatives to wood logs. Create a campfire look with fire rocks and real look fire logs. Or produce a spa-like atmosphere with a variety of fire glass in different colors and shapes. Lava rocks or stones also work well too. One thing to keep in mind is that fire logs and lava rocks tend to hold more heat providing more warmth than the fire glass products. Some tables offer protective screens and covers keeping any flying embers at bay. Also, look to see if there are vinyl covers that can be used to protect the table when not in use.
Fire Glass
Price
Fire tables will run anywhere from $250 – $3,000 plus depending on the factors we covered above as well as the overall fit and finish of the table. We recommend staying away from the cheaper models for a couple of reasons. First, these tables live outside. The cheaper models don’t hold up over time and you’ll find yourself replacing them after a couple of seasons at best. Secondly we are talking about propane gas and fire in your outdoor space. All of the models on the market are safe but when it comes to fire near your home do you really want the cheapest model on the market?
Really good article on fire table. Before I read this article I’ve never thought of fire-tables but after this I’m starting to want one. I’m from Iceland and the evenings are getting chillier and darker every day and it would be really nice to feel the warmth and the light from fire tables. I liked the point that you don’t want to buy the cheapest table as we are talking about gas, fire, your house and your family and friends. You don’t want to burn them down with your cheap fire table.
Thanks for stopping by. I am glad the article got your wheels turning.
I’m so glad I found this post, this is just what I’ve been looking for, but can’t make up my mind. There seems to be a lot more to this kind of product than I had anticipated. I’m not that worried about if the fire table looks that good, I’m more worried about practical warmth. Which fire table would you suggest is the best for keeping us warm on those fall nights?
Hi Michael,
Thanks for stopping by. I think that the Real Flame Mezzo Round Table will pack enough BTU’s to keep you toasty this fall.
Hi Ryan, this is the first time I am hearing about Propane Fire Tables. It has a great look and can easily be accommodated within the home.
But what is the fuel used for this purpose and is it durable to longer? Is it safe with kids? Can you tell me? Thanking you!
Hi and thanks for stopping by.
These types of fire bowls use either propane, ethanol, and gel fuel. All burn cleanly. Gel fuel is probably safest for the kids as it doesn’t burn that hot.