5 Must-Have Features in a Fire Glass

Fire Glass Sizes

Standard fire glass comes in a variety of sizes for any gas fire feature, though our experts recommend half-inch diameter for most outdoor fire pits—it’s easier and more economic. Smaller sizes, like quarter-inch or half-inch, offer better heat distribution and a consistent flame. That said, some prefer the aesthetic of larger glass pieces as they provide a more bold appearance. Different sizes possess different weights and volumes, so you’ll need to calculate how much you need for your fire pit. Thankfully, our Fire Glass Calculator does that math for you.

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Accessible Text Version for Fire Glass Sizes Infographic

Accessibility Text Version for Fire Glass Sizes Infographic

Here’s a helpful size comparison chart to guide your fire glass buying journey.

• The width of a penny is 0.75 inches.
• The infographic displays the visual width of a penny compared to a two-and-a-half-inch slide rule, with markers for each diameter of fire glass.
• One-fourth-inch diameter fire glass is about the width of one-third of one penny.
• One-half-inch diameter fire glass is about the width of two-thirds of one penny.
• Three-fourths-inch diameter fire glass is about the width of one penny.
• A one-inch diameter fire glass is about the width of one and one-third pennies.
• A two-inch diameter fire glass is approximately the width of two and a half pennies.

Fire Glass Shapes

Where fire glass comes in many sizes, there are also different shapes of fire media. There’s no shortage of them: glass nuggets, beads, cubes—the list goes on. As to which shape of fire media you should buy, that depends completely on personal preference and the overall décor of your outdoor space. It’s also worth mentioning that many shapes can be mixed together for an especially eye-catching display.

Reflective vs. Non-Reflective Fire Glass

It’s also important to consider aesthetics when deciding whether to go for reflective or non-reflective fire glass. Again, this is very much a matter of preference, but both types differ in their appearance and how they interact with light. Let’s explore why that is.

Reflective Fire Glass

Reflective fire glass is treated and polished on one side, which bounces light like a mirror. Place this polish facing a flame, and the fire’s light will reflect through shimmering glass and produce a dancing effect. This is especially complementary to features that incorporate different types of fire media, logs, and other décor. Mix colors of reflective fire glass, or pair it with stainless steel, and the reflective fire glass will do all the heavy lifting in your mesmerizing centerpiece.

Non-Reflective Fire Glass

Without the mirror’s edge, light penetrates throughout non-reflective glass to swap that glistening glimmer for softer ambience. If you plan to use a single color of glass, especially black, this is your better choice. Non-reflective fire glass blends flame lights to showcase a somber aesthetic. Use this glass with smaller fire bowls or fire urns to maximize atmosphere. And remember: you can mix reflective and non-reflective glass.

How Much Fire Glass Do I Need?

To know exactly how much fire glass is needed to fill your fire feature, you’ll need the physical dimensions of that feature. Once you’ve got those measurements, plug them right into that Fire Glass Calculator for your exact volume needed. We recommend piling fire glass no higher than 1–2 inches over the top of the burner. Any further and you’ll make that flame work harder to push through the glass. Always consult those owner’s manuals for further details.

Other Types of Fire Pit Decor

In addition to the shapes and sizes of your fire glass there are accessories available to you and your fire pit. These decorative elements—such as fire pit branches, stones, and lava rocks—hold up to high heat without discoloring or cracking, enhancing your set piece with a personalized finish. As most fire pit décor appears as natural elements use them thoughtfully to build displays or scenes that enhance your outdoor space.

Want more information on Colored Reflective Fire Glass? Feel free to contact us.

About Fire Glass Colors

Fire glass colors come in a seemingly never-ending spectrum. While we invite you to think differently, our design experts tell us the most popular colors of fire glass ordered by our other clients are black, clear, copper, and blue. Be sure to check out our Free Outdoor Living Design service, where our experts can help you find the perfect fire glass to complement your fire feature. Trust our guidance and you’ll have that toasty, romantic, downright evocative firelight in no time!

Fire glass, also known as fire pit glass or fireplace glass, is a popular and attractive alternative to traditional firewood for fire pits, fireplaces, and fire pit tables. It is made from tempered glass and is designed to withstand high temperatures while enhancing the aesthetics of your fire feature. Here's a comprehensive guide on the do's and don'ts of using fire glass, caring for it, and important safety considerations.

Fire Pit Glass Installation:

Once you receive your Blue Ridge Brand fire pit glass, you will need to properly install the glass in your gas or propane fire pit. We recommend reading the fire pit manual for your fire pit thoroughly before following our installation instructions. For safety, when handling glass please use protective eyewear and safety gloves.  Picking your fire pit glass shape is another important decision in the process. If your fire pit tends to get too hot or produces soot, we recommend our crushed glass options since each piece of glass has a minimal surface area. Our diamonds, cubes and beads are wonderful options for most fire pits, however, if you have had overheating or soot from your fire pit in the past, breakage of the glass is possible near the fire ring.  Open the fire pit glass bag and gently pour it into the fire pit pan. The glass should only be 1 inch to 2 inches over the fire pit ring. If you overfill the fire pit, especially the fire ring, the flames will have a difficult time breaking through the glass which can lead to soot and other issues later down the line. Once you have filled the fire pit, you can turn the fire pit on and enjoy watching the flames.

Do's:

Select the Right Type of Fire Glass: There are various types and colors of fire glass available on our website. Choose a type and color that complements your decor and personal preferences. Feel free to mix different colors and types of glass to make your fire feature your own work of art! You can get some cool ideas from our Gallery.

Use in Appropriate Fire Features: Fire glass is suitable for use in propane and natural gas fire pits, fireplaces, and fire pit tables designed for this purpose. Make sure your appliance is compatible with fire glass before using it.

Follow the Manufacturer's Guidelines: Always adhere to the firepit manufacturer's guidelines for installation and usage of glass. This includes recommended glass thickness, layer depth, and safety instructions.

Proper Installation: Ensure the fire glass is evenly distributed across the fire feature's burner or pan. Avoid overfilling, as this can obstruct the flow of gas and cause dangerous flare-ups. We recommend leaving the burners uncovered with glass so the flame has a clear path. Glass covering the burners also tends to collect soot as the air to gas ratio becomes disrupted.

Regularly Clean and Maintain: Fire glass can accumulate dust, dirt, and soot over time. Periodically remove and clean the glass. When handling it, we highly recommend wearing protective gloves that will ensure you avoid contact with sharp edges.

How to Wash Fire Glass:

• In a bucket, add the fire glass to a simple 50/50 solution of distilled water and vinegar (avoid using commercial glass cleaning products or dish soaps, as they can leave residue that, when heated, may produce toxic fumes in your fireplace or fire pit) and stir the glass around.
• Remove it from the bucket and place it in a strainer. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely before adding it back to your fire pit.
• Tip: If you're using propane, you might find it necessary to clean your fire glass more frequently. Propane tends to produce a darker flame than natural gas, which can potentially lead to some discoloration of the glass.

Monitor for Damage: Inspect the fire glass for any cracks or damage. Damaged glass can be a safety hazard and should be replaced promptly.

Use in Outdoor Spaces: Fire glass is an excellent choice for outdoor applications. It can withstand exposure to the elements.




Don'ts:

Don't Use in Wood-Burning Fireplaces: Fire glass is not intended for use in traditional wood-burning fireplaces. The intense heat from wood fires can damage the glass.

Don't Use in Unapproved Appliances: Using fire glass in non-approved or incompatible appliances can be dangerous. Always use it as intended by the firepit manufacturer.

Mixing it up? Tip: When using both fire glass and other fillers like ceramic rocks and logs, it's important to follow these tips for a safe setup. While some customers use both fire logs and glass, be cautious about trapped heat, which isn't ideal for the glass. However, if you ensure the fillers are correctly arranged, this should not be a concern. Additionally, avoid overloading your fire feature, as excessive fire glass can obstruct the burner, leading to flame issues and potential safety hazards.