Fire and Water Bowls at Fireplace Doors Online: Elevate Your Outdoor Living Space

Fire and water bowls are a stunning addition to any outdoor living space, combining the mesmerizing beauty of fire with the calming presence of water. At Fireplace Doors Online, we offer a diverse range of fire and water bowls made from high-quality materials such as glass-reinforced concrete, copper, stainless steel, and powder-coated steel. These bowls are designed to enhance the ambiance of your pool, pond, or any outdoor area. Available in propane and natural gas options, with match-lit or electronic ignition systems, our fire and water bowls come in square or round shapes. Additionally, we offer self-contained fire and water fountains, providing a unique and captivating focal point for your space. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the benefits of fire and water bowls, discuss their pros and cons, and explain why Fireplace Doors Online is your best choice for purchasing these stunning features.

What is a Fire and Water Bowl?

A fire and water bowl is an outdoor feature that combines a fire element with a water feature, creating a striking visual and sensory experience. These bowls typically have a fire burner in the center, surrounded by a water basin that allows water to flow around the flames. The combination of fire and water creates a captivating and unique focal point for any outdoor space.

Benefits of Fire and Water Bowls

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Fire and water bowls add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outdoor setting. The dynamic interplay of fire and water creates a stunning visual effect that enhances the overall beauty of your space.
2. Ambiance: The soothing sound of flowing water combined with the warmth and glow of the fire creates a relaxing and inviting atmosphere, perfect for outdoor gatherings and relaxation.
3. Versatility: Available in various materials, shapes, and sizes, fire and water bowls can complement any outdoor decor. Whether you prefer a modern, rustic, or traditional look, there is a fire and water bowl to match your style.
4. Functionality: Fire and water bowls provide both warmth and a cooling effect, making your outdoor area comfortable during different weather conditions. The fire offers warmth on cool evenings, while the water adds a refreshing element on hot days.
5. Safety and Control: With options for propane and natural gas, as well as match-lit or electronic ignition systems, fire and water bowls are designed for safe and controlled operation.

Types of Fire and Water Bowls Offered by Fireplace Doors Online

Glass-Reinforced Concrete Fire and Water Bowls

Glass-reinforced concrete (GRC) fire and water bowls are known for their durability and contemporary design. These bowls are made from a mixture of glass fibers and concrete, resulting in a strong and lightweight material that can withstand various weather conditions.

Pros of Glass-Reinforced Concrete Fire and Water Bowls:

1. Durability: GRC fire and water bowls are resistant to cracking, chipping, and weathering, ensuring long-lasting performance.
2. Lightweight: Despite their strength, GRC fire and water bowls are relatively lightweight, making them easier to move and install.
3. Modern Aesthetic: The sleek, contemporary design of GRC fire and water bowls complements modern outdoor spaces.

Cons of Glass-Reinforced Concrete Fire and Water Bowls:

1. Cost: GRC fire and water bowls can be more expensive than those made from other materials.
2. Limited Color Options: While stylish, GRC fire and water bowls may have fewer color options compared to other materials.

Copper Fire and Water Bowls

Copper fire and water bowls are prized for their timeless beauty and ability to develop a unique patina over time. These bowls add a touch of luxury and elegance to any outdoor setting.

Pros of Copper Fire and Water Bowls:

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Copper fire and water bowls have a distinctive and elegant look that enhances the beauty of any outdoor space.
2. Durability: Copper is a durable material that can withstand various weather conditions and develop a beautiful patina over time.
3. Heat Distribution: Copper conducts heat well, providing a consistent and even flame.

Cons of Copper Fire and Water Bowls:

1. Cost: Copper fire and water bowls are generally more expensive than other materials.
2. Weight: Copper fire and water bowls can be heavy, making them more challenging to move.

Stainless Steel Fire and Water Bowls

Stainless steel fire and water bowls offer a sleek, modern look and are known for their durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. These bowls are ideal for contemporary outdoor spaces.

Pros of Stainless Steel Fire and Water Bowls:

1. Durability: Stainless steel is highly resistant to rust, corrosion, and weathering, ensuring long-lasting performance.
2. Modern Design: The sleek, polished appearance of stainless steel fire and water bowls complements contemporary outdoor decor.
3. Low Maintenance: Stainless steel fire and water bowls are easy to clean and maintain.

Cons of Stainless Steel Fire and Water Bowls:

1. Heat Retention: Stainless steel can retain heat, making the surface hot to the touch.
2. Cost: High-quality stainless steel fire and water bowls can be more expensive than other materials.

Powder-Coated Steel Fire and Water Bowls

Powder-coated steel fire and water bowls are durable and versatile, available in a variety of colors and finishes. The powder coating adds an extra layer of protection against rust and corrosion.

Pros of Powder-Coated Steel Fire and Water Bowls:

1. Durability: The powder coating provides an additional layer of protection, enhancing the durability of the steel.
2. Versatility: Available in various colors and finishes, powder-coated steel fire and water bowls can match any outdoor decor.
3. Affordability: Powder-coated steel fire and water bowls are generally more affordable than other high-end materials.

Cons of Powder-Coated Steel Fire and Water Bowls:

1. Maintenance: The powder coating can chip or scratch over time, requiring touch-ups to maintain appearance.
2. Weight: Powder-coated steel fire and water bowls can be heavy, making them less portable.

Fuel Options: Propane and Natural Gas

At Fireplace Doors Online, we offer fire and water bowls that are compatible with both propane and natural gas. Each fuel type has its own benefits:

Propane Fire and Water Bowls:

1. Portability: Propane tanks allow for greater flexibility in placement and mobility.
2. Ease of Use: Propane fire and water bowls are easy to start and control, with adjustable flame settings.
3. Quick Setup: Propane fire and water bowls require minimal setup and are ideal for those who want a ready-to-use solution.

Natural Gas Fire and Water Bowls:

Continuous Fuel Supply: Natural gas fire and water bowls are connected to a gas line, providing a continuous fuel supply without the need to refill tanks.

1. Cost-Effective: Natural gas is generally more cost-effective than propane over time.
2. Convenience: Natural gas fire and water bowls offer the convenience of never running out of fuel during use.

Ignition Options: Match-Lit and Electronic Ignition

Our fire and water bowls are available with two types of ignition systems: match-lit and electronic ignition.

Match-Lit Ignition:

1. Simplicity: Match-lit ignition systems are straightforward and easy to use.
2. Reliability: Fewer components mean less potential for malfunction.
3. Affordability: Match-lit systems are generally more affordable than electronic ignition systems.

Electronic Ignition:

1. Convenience: Electronic ignition systems allow for easy and quick startup with the push of a button.
2. Safety: Built-in safety features, such as automatic shutoff, provide added peace of mind.
3. Control: Electronic ignition systems often come with remote controls for convenient operation.

Shapes: Square and Round Fire and Water Bowls

Fire and water bowls come in two primary shapes: square and round, each offering unique aesthetic and functional benefits.

Square Fire and Water Bowls:

1. Modern Look: Square fire and water bowls provide a contemporary and stylish appearance.
2. Versatile Placement: Square shapes fit well in various settings, including corners and along straight edges.
3. Unique Design: Square fire and water bowls stand out as a distinctive design element in your outdoor space.

Round Fire and Water Bowls:

1. Classic Appeal: Round fire and water bowls offer a timeless and classic look.
2. Even Heat Distribution: The round shape allows for even heat distribution, making it ideal for gatherings.
3. Central Focal Point: Round fire and water bowls create a natural gathering spot and focal point in your outdoor area.

Self-Contained Fire and Water Fountains

In addition to traditional fire and water bowls, Fireplace Doors Online offers self-contained fire and water fountains. These unique features combine the elements of fire and water in a compact, easy-to-install unit, providing a stunning focal point for any outdoor space.

Pros of Self-Contained Fire and Water Fountains:

1. Easy Installation: Self-contained units are designed for easy installation, with no need for extensive plumbing or electrical work. Besides bringing water and electricity to the unit, so there will need to be some site work done.
2. Compact Design: These fountains are ideal for smaller spaces or as a centerpiece in larger areas.
3. Unique Aesthetic: The combination of fire and water in a single unit creates a captivating visual and sensory experience.

Cons of Self-Contained Fire and Water Fountains:

1. Limited Customization: Self-contained units may offer fewer customization options compared to traditional fire and water bowls.
2. Cost: These units can be more expensive due to their integrated design and features.

Important Installation Considerations for Fire and Water Bowls

When considering the installation of fire and water bowls from Fireplace Doors Online, it’s important to understand the necessary infrastructure required for optimal functionality. Our high-quality fire and water bowls, crafted from glass-reinforced concrete, copper, stainless steel, and powder-coated steel, require specific plumbing for water, gas, and electric connections.

Plumbing Requirements:

Water Supply: To enjoy the water feature, a dedicated water line must be installed. This line ensures a continuous and controlled flow of water around the fire bowl, enhancing the aesthetic and calming effects.

Gas Supply: For fire bowls using propane or natural gas, proper gas lines must be in place. This setup ensures a steady and safe supply of fuel, whether you choose a match-lit or electronic ignition system.

Electric Supply: Many of our fire and water bowls, especially those with electronic ignition systems, require an electric connection. This connection is crucial for powering the ignition system and any additional features such as lighting.

Proper installation of these systems is essential for the safe and efficient operation of your fire and water bowl. Consulting with a professional plumber or gas technician is recommended to ensure all connections meet safety standards and local building codes. By investing in the right setup, you can fully enjoy the beauty and functionality of your fire and water bowl, transforming your outdoor space into a serene and captivating retreat.

Fire and Water Components

Lets take a look at the internal components of pool fire bowls. The gas and water lines enter in through a hole in the bottom of the fire and water bowl, through a mounting bracket that also provides some clearance for proper ventilation. The water line attaches directly to the back of the scupper, meaning that no water actually "pools" inside of the bowl. 

The burner pan sits on a ledge inside of the fire and water bowl, and helps to support the burner and also block debris from getting inside the bowl. This is where your fire media will be placed. Some bowls do not have a burner pan, and are instead filled with lava rock or fire glass.

 

---

FAQs

CONCRETE POOL FIRE BOWLS

Can I receive a concrete color sample?

• Unfortunately, no. Each of our concrete products is custom made, and while every one of our artisans follows the same guidelines for color-mixing, the pouring of the concrete will actually determine the specific hue of the finished product. Therefore, if we send you a color sample, it will not be a true representation of your concrete accent. The colors that we feature online are the closest examples of your chosen shade.
  
  Rest assured that if you order multiples of one color (taupe, for example), the fire bowls will match each other, but there will be specific areas of each feature that show a variance in texture and blending. For example, the color on the lip of one fire bowl may appear slightly bolder in certain areas than the next. This is not a flaw; rather, it is an indication of quality and perfection. This is 100% assurance that your concrete fire bowl was handcrafted.

What kind of concrete are these pool fire bowls made from?

• While some manufacturers use inferior concrete that can crack during use and crumble away, our precast proprietary mixture is a heavy-duty alternative. Much like the high tensile mixes found in industrial and architectural applications, this concrete blend allows enhanced resistance to weather, high temperatures, and mechanical shocks. Your pool fire bowl will last for many seasons of fireside enjoyment.
  
  Please note that concrete on its own is not watertight. It needs to be sealed in order to hold water. There are some terrific concrete sealers on the market that can be found at your local hardware store. We highly recommend a sealer that is waterproof. A bonus would be a flexible heavy-duty coating that has freeze-thaw properties for winter weather conditions. This would allow you to cover your bowl and leave it outside with confidence for the season!

How much does a concrete pool fire bowl weigh?

• The concrete mix we use for each pool fire bowl is just as heavy as any other concrete. This is because we don't add any lightweight filler or low-quality aggregate. Weight is dependent upon the size of the bowl you order, ranging anywhere from 80 to 180 pounds, or even more for an extra-large feature.

How do you ship a concrete pool fire bowl?

• Since the concrete bowls are so heavy, we must ship them by a freight trucking company. They are packaged using a wood pallet with protective sides so that no damage occurs during transport. After the concrete fire bowls arrive at your home or business, the truck operator will unload the pallet using a "lift gate" so that you may inspect it for any damage. If all is well, then you may begin installation as soon as you wish!

STAINLESS STEEL POOL FIRE BOWLS

How do you ship a stainless steel pool fire bowl?

• Some of our stainless steel bowls are quite heavy and must be shipped by a freight trucking company. They are packaged using a wood pallet with protective sides so that no damage occurs during transport. After the pool fire bowl arrives at your home or business, the truck operator will unload the pallet using a "lift gate" so that you may inspect it for any damage. If all is well, then you may begin installation as soon as you wish!

How do you clean a stainless steel pool fire bowl?

• Stainless steel fire and water bowls can be cleaned with a soft cloth, lukewarm water, and a few drops of mild soap. Rinse clean, then let air dry. Buff with a second clean, soft cloth. You may also use a good quality stainless steel cleaner on the outside of the bowl.

COPPER POOL FIRE BOWLS

How do you ship a copper pool fire bowl?

• Most of our copper bowls are quite heavy and must be shipped by a freight trucking company. They are packaged using a wood pallet with protective sides so that no damage occurs during transport. After the copper pool fire bowl arrives at your home or business, the truck operator will unload the pallet using a "lift gate" so that you may inspect it for any damage. If all is well, then you may begin installation as soon as you wish!

What is that aqua colored coating that develops on copper?

• Over time, with exposure to oxygen and other elements that exist in the environment, copper will develop a protective coating that is known as a patina. Copper in particular, when subjected to the natural process of oxidation, displays a beautiful aqua colored patina that gives the surface an aged or antique look. Depending on how long your copper bowl is exposed to the air, wind, rain, and other variables including your location, the patina will develop and reveal differently!

What if I prefer the copper color over the patina? Is there any way to avoid the natural oxidation process?

• To remove the patina, we recommend a simple DIY cleaning method:
  • Combine 1/2 cup lemon juice with 1 tablespoon of baking soda together in a plastic bowl.
  • Using a microfiber cloth, gently scrub the surfaces of the bowl using a circular motion to prevent scratching the copper.
  • For more advanced stages of patina, substitute a soft-bristled brush for the microfiber cloth.
  • Wipe the bowl with a separate clean, soft cloth.
  • Rinse the bowl clean with warm water.
  • Let the copper product air dry, or to avoid watermarks, use a 3rd clean microfiber cloth wipe the bowl dry.  

SELF CONTAINED FIRE AND WATER FOUNTAINS 

Do these units include all of the components I will need for the installation process?

• Yes! You'll receive the decorative fire and water basin, along with the containment tank. You'll receive any necessary fuel and water line hoses, burner and fittings, and fire media (such as lava rock). In addition, you'll receive the water circulation pump and lighting (if applicable). The only things you will need to supply are the water and electrical source required for the pump (and LED lighting on certain units) to run properly.

ALL POOL FIRE BOWLS 

Do I have to be a contractor to install a pool fire bowl?

• This answer depends on your locality. Since pool fire bowls often require a gas supply line, we recommend that only licensed contractors install and test the ignition and burner system. Once the gas system is completed by a licensed contractor, it is dependent on the discretion of your local fire codes as to whether or not you are allowed to complete any other water, electrical, or structural work on the fire bowl project. We have a lot of customers who have successfully installed the bowls themselves in a few hours, and others whose municipality required either a permit or that all the work be completed by a contractor.

Where can I install a pool fire bowl?

• Our customers have installed their pool fire bowls just about anywhere outside their home, including uncovered gathering spots on the patio or atop pillars surrounding the pool. Business owners also love displaying fire bowls at their venues, whether in alfresco restaurant seating areas, ski resorts, golf courses, campuses of large corporations, or amusement park entrances!
• Please note that our self-contained units are quite heavy and will need a supportive, even surface to rest on. A concrete slab would be ideal. Please consult a professional landscaper or contractor to determine the best scenario for outdoor installation on your property.

Why don't you offer free shipping on your Quote Only items?

• Quote-Only items are special order products that often times are large and heavy enough that special trucking and crating is necessary. Therefore, additional charges would apply. It wouldn't be fair to deem these items "free shipping" and then turn around and surprise you with extra shipping and handling fees. However, we have the ability to negotiate these destination surcharges with the manufacturer based on your product selections and location!

Can every bowl be equipped with "fire-on-water?"

• Unfortunately, no. The submersible manifolds require a certain amount of clearance and the tapered nature of our bowl bottoms don't always allow this. The manifolds also need to be covered with at least 1" of water. This means that only the larger, deeper bowls can be equipped with this effect.

Can I equip a match-lit fire/water bowl with an electronic ignition system?

• Electronic ignition systems (like the AWEIS, Mini-AWEIS, SUBEIS, and AFOW) add bulk to the burners, so some bowls aren't deep enough to add them. Most match-lit copper and stainless steel bowls with built-in fire pans simply don't have the room for the electronics or for the pipe.

Why does my water feature keep losing water?

• As most water features are kept outdoors, you will see some evaporation of the water within the feature. We suggest looking into a cover for your feature to avoid this in the future. Click here to look into the cover options we have available to you!

Should I turn off the fire and water part of my feature?

• Your fire feature is suggested to be turned off when not in use to avoid a fire issue. Leaving the fire part of your feature may also use more gas. We suggest leaving your water feature on to avoid motor issues in the future. Make sure to inspect and care for your product for longer use!

How often should I clean my features?

• We suggest cleaning your feature every six months. This is a standard cleaning timeframe for most products. If you live near saltwater, we would suggest every three months as salt in the air can cause more issues. Keep in mind that you can clean whenever you feel this is necessary. 

Give us a call at 1-888-986-1535 for a custom discount on any of our quote-only bowls!