Jacksonville winters may not bring snow, but they definitely don’t hold back on rain. If you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor firepit in your backyard, you know how enjoyable it can be on a cool evening. But when winter rolls in with steady rainfall, your cozy fire spot can take a beating. Water and firepits don’t mix well, and a little neglect can lead to rust, mold, or even a firepit that won’t function when you need it most.
That’s why it’s smart to stay one step ahead of the weather and make protection part of your routine. Taking simple steps now can save you from expensive damage later. No one wants to deal with soggy ash, water-damaged burners, or soaked firewood right before hosting friends or relaxing alone on a quiet weekend. Keeping your outdoor firepit in good shape means you’re always ready to enjoy it, just the way you planned.
Understanding Jacksonville’s Winter Weather
If you’ve lived in Jacksonville for a while, you know the winters don’t always follow a pattern. One day it’s clear and cool, and the next it feels like your lawn’s turning into a swamp. November through February brings regular bouts of rain, and while the temperatures stay mild, the dampness can sneak up fast on anything left outdoors.
Firepits sitting exposed usually take the hit. Rain gets into gas lines, collects in burners, and fills up wood-burning pits with soggy debris. Even metal parts start to wear down quicker when they stay wet too long. The side effects may not show up right away, but over time, they lead to problems like clogged burner ports, flaking paint, and rusted grates.
This kind of wear lowers the lifespan of your firepit, especially if you’re dealing with materials not built to stand up to Jacksonville’s rainy season. And if your firepit is part of a larger outdoor living area, like a paver patio or deck, water damage can easily spread across the surrounding space. Before long, that one leak or puddle becomes a much bigger headache.
So if you’re noticing puddles collecting inside your pit, or corrosion showing up where there wasn’t any before, it’s time to take action. Jacksonville’s winter may not freeze everything over, but the wet season is no joke when it comes to protecting your space.
Effective Cover Solutions For Your Firepit
One of the simplest ways to shield your firepit from Jacksonville’s rain is with a quality cover. While that might sound obvious, not all covers work the same. Choosing the right one depends on a few factors like the type of firepit you have, how often you use it, and where it’s placed in your yard.
Here are a few types of firepit covers and what they offer:
1. Heavy-duty vinyl or polyester covers – These are weather-resistant and often water-repellent. They work best for pits that aren’t used often during the winter.
2. Fitted, custom covers – These hug your firepit’s shape tightly and stay secure even in strong winds. A snug fit can keep water from sneaking in through gaps.
3. Metal or hard-shell covers – Usually built to fit certain firepit models, these solid options protect the top of your pit and double as a tabletop when not in use.
4. Multi-layered covers – Some high-end models use foam, fabric, and waterproof layers together. They’re tougher and usually last longer in wet conditions.
No matter which type you choose, the way you place and secure the cover is just as important. Don’t just drape it loosely and hope for the best. Here’s how to keep your cover working like it should:
– Clean your firepit before covering it so dirt and ash don’t trap moisture inside.
– Let it air out before sealing it up to avoid mildew.
– Use bungee cords or drawstrings when possible to keep the cover in place during strong winds.
– Make sure the design allows water to run off instead of pooling in the center.
Even if you’ve got a covered patio or screened-in space, rain can still blow in sideways or seep through flooring. A good cover helps give you peace of mind that your fire feature will work the next time you need it.
Maintenance Tips for Rainy Season
A good cover helps, but your firepit needs a little more than just protection from above. Rainy winters in Jacksonville can leave behind extra moisture, dirt, or even mold if your firepit doesn’t get regular attention. Staying on top of cleaning and checking for issues can keep your setup in working shape when you want to use it.
If you’re using your firepit often, a quick wipe-down after rain can stop grime from building up. For wood-burning models, clear out soggy ash and unburnt wood, since they can hold moisture and smell. For gas firepits, check for signs of rust around the burner and gas line because corrosion here can lead to weak flames or full-on malfunctions.
To make sure the area around your firepit is draining well, keep leaves, mulch, or debris from collecting near the base. If your firepit has a drainage hole or natural slope, make sure nothing’s blocking it. Pooled water around the pit not only damages the materials but can also shift the foundation over time, especially when mixed with soft soil.
Once a month, do a closer inspection:
– Look for surface rust, cracks, or peeling paint around the edges.
– Check gas burners or ignition systems for signs of water wear.
– Sweep away loose debris and make sure no pests or insects are nesting inside.
One homeowner in Arlington, a neighborhood in Jacksonville, noticed a mild but constant gas smell during winter. Turns out, moisture had corroded part of their firepit’s igniter wire. A quick check from a local pro solved it before it became a bigger, costlier issue. Regular upkeep can prevent surprises like that and let you enjoy more peace of mind when using your firepit next.
Keeping Your Firepit Functional and Ready
Even with winter showers coming and going, Jacksonville’s mild climate still gives you a fair share of dry days. It’s nice to be able to fire up your pit with little hassle when that window opens.
To keep yours ready between storms:
1. Make sure your firepit is dry before lighting. If it’s been covered but had any lingering moisture trapped inside, give it some time to air out.
2. Store wood in a dry spot, preferably off the ground and loosely stacked so air moves through. Covered storage closer to the house or under a patio roofing panel works better than leaving it directly outside.
3. If you have a gas firepit, test functionality after any stretch of wet weather. Push the ignition and watch for a strong, even flame. If you smell gas or the flame keeps flickering unevenly, skip using it and call in a pro.
For both gas and wood-burning firepits, moisture can get into spots you won’t see at first, like behind control knobs or underneath lava rocks and glass pieces. If something seems off, it probably is. Trust your gut before lighting up.
When it’s dry enough and looks safe, give the area a quick check before firing up a cozy evening. A few preventive measures like repositioning furniture, clearing away yard debris, or drying off seat cushions make your whole setup feel clean and ready instead of damp and forgotten.
Protect Now, Enjoy More Later
Jacksonville’s climate gives outdoor lovers a longer season to relax and entertain under the stars. That’s why taking a few small steps now pays off in the months ahead.
A simple routine of covering the firepit, checking for wear, and clearing away water buildup keeps your setup clean and reliable. When it’s raining for days and your firewood stays dry, or your ignition works the first time you push the button, you’ll be glad you stayed on top of it.
Protecting your outdoor firepit means more than just throwing a cover over it. It’s about keeping it ready whenever those perfect lounge-worthy evenings pop up again. With a little bit of care, your firepit will stay a relaxing go-to spot throughout Jacksonville’s cooler, wetter season.
Keep your firepit and outdoor spaces ready for enjoyment throughout Jacksonville’s rainy season with expert help from The Florida Patio Company. Our knowledgeable team ensures that your outdoor features endure even the wettest weather. Enhance and protect your setup with an outdoor fireplace in Jacksonville, FL, designed for longevity and style. Let us guide you in creating and maintaining a comfortable outdoor oasis all year round!