BURN BOWL FIRE PIT FAQs
What is a Burn Bowl?
Burn Bowl is a premium, handcrafted outdoor fire pit made from recycled Corten steel and upcycled industrial tanks. Burn Bowls are larger and deeper than standard fire pits. Burn Bowls combine New England maritime and whaling history with modern function to create a durable gathering centerpiece.
What size Burn Bowls and designs are available?
We currently offer eight (8) signature sizes and styles — ranging in size from 30” in diameter to 57” in diameter. Our most popular are the 38″ Humpback Whale and the 40″ Blue Whale—both with deep basins that shield smoke and wind. Custom size, and designs (including our 57″ Burn Balls) are available by request.
Can I cook on my Burn Bowl?
Absolutely! Add the optional 304 stainless steel cook top to grill, sear, or serve family style meals right over the fire. The cook top is easy to install, and we have sizes to fit all Burn Bowl models.
What is Corten steel, and why do we use it?
Corten steel is a high quality alloy (weathering steel) that will develops a protective, rust colored patina over time— like historic railroad structures from the 1800s. Corten is weather resistant,
low maintenance and built to last a lifetime. Unlike other steel, Corten’s patina is protective vs. corrosive. The patina protects the blue grey steel underneath.
Will my Burn Bowl rust?
Yes, but this is by design. Burn Bowls use Corten steel, this type of steel will form a stable,
protective rust layer is known as patina. This patina will prevent deeper corrosion. The patina
gives a weathered finish and is Burn Bowls signature, rugged look and preserves its strength.
How do I care for my Burn Bowl?
Just remove ash between fires and let nature handle the patina. A byproduct of wet ash is lye and lye is corrosive to steel. To keep your ash dry, consider buying one of our Snuffer Lids, which serve three purposes. First, they put out your fire at the end of the evening, so you don’t have to worry about unattended fires. Secondly, they keep your ash dry, so the lye won’t impact the integrity of the bowl and Thirdly, they transform your Burn Bowl to an outdoor coffee table when not in use.
Is assembly required?
No assembly is needed—Burn Bowl ship finished and ready to light. If you add the cook top, or snuffer lid they can be added in seconds without tools.
Are Burn Bowls eco friendly?
Yes, each Burn Bowl is made from recycled and upcycled materials—like retired propane tanks
and salvaged World War II Navy mooring balls—this minimizes waste and honors sustainability.
What makes a Burn Bowl different from traditional fire pits?
Burn Bowls are larger, deeper, and more durable than the mass-produced fire pits. Each Burn
Bowl is handcrafted from recycled Corten steel and designed to radiate heat better, reduce
smoke blowback, and serve as a distinctive and lasting architectural feature for your outdoor
gathering space.
Can I use my Burn Bowl on a deck or patio?
We do not recommend placing a burn bowl on wooden or composite surfaces. We recommend placing them on a hardscape, such as pavers, stone, gravel. Corten steel will get hot and can damage wood or composite decking.
Is a spark screen available?
Yes. We offer optional spark screens for added safety—ideal for families with children or when
using the fire pit in areas with strict fire safety regulations (these need to be ordered separately and are custom made to order)
Do Burn Bowls meet local fire safety codes?
Our fire pits are designed to be compliant with most local codes. However, always check your
local fire regulations or HOA rules before installation or especially in high fire-risk regions.
Can I burn wood, charcoal, or other fuel?
Burn Bowls are designed primarily for use with seasoned hardwoods, but Burn Bowls also
accommodate charcoal for cooking and fire-safe gel or log alternatives.
How heavy is a Burn Bowl?
Depending on the Burn Bowl size and design, Burn Bowls range from 65 to 350 pounds. Burn
Bowls are heavy enough to stay put in wind and weather, but still movable with two people or a
dolly.
Can I leave my Burn Bowl outside year-round?
Yes! Burn Bowls are made to live outdoors in all seasons. The Corten steel withstands rain,
snow, and salt air. Be sure to safely empty the ashes regularly and consider a custom cover for
added protection.
Where are Burn Bowls made?
All Burn Bowls are handcrafted by artisans on the Southern New England Coast in
Massachusetts, an area with deep maritime roots. Every Burn Bowl is individually numbered
and made with pride in the USA.
Purchase Delivery and Burn Bowl Warranty
How do I order a custom Burn Bowl or Burn Ball?
Use our Contact Us form, send us an email, or call our team directly to discuss your custom
Burn Bowl or Burn Ball design. We’ll walk you through the process—from size and shape to
optional cutout artwork—and provide a free quote and timeline.
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes. All Burn Bowls come with a lifetime warranty against structural defects. We stand behind
our craftsmanship and recycled steel construction.
How long does shipping take?
Standard U.S. shipping takes 5–7 business days. Expedited and international options are
available at checkout.
Become a Burn Bowl Reseller
How do I become a Burn Bowl Reseller?
Use our Contact Us form, send us an email, or call our team directly to discuss becoming a Burn Bowl reseller today!
Highly Recommend
We Love our Burn Bowl, Cooking Grate, and we
now just picked up the Harpoon Poker and
Snuff-Out Cover.
Looks great in our yard compliments when
anyone sees it…”Where did you get that?”
Awesome.
– Harold
Craft Your Fire Pit Experience
The Burn Bowl team is ready to help you find the right Burn Bowl to fit your space, your style, and your story.
Reach out today and let’s create something extraordinary to gather around.