The best fire pit table materials for most patios are powder coated aluminum for light weight and rust resistance, glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) for a heavy, wind steady centerpiece, and stone or porcelain tops for a hard wearing surface. Steel and resin wicker work too, but need more attention to covers and care. This guide compares them on weather, rust, wind, heat and cleaning, using the specs in our listings. For budget, see our guide to fire pit table cost.
Fire pit table materials compared
General material facts, sourced below. Check the care notes for the exact table you buy.
| Material | Rust and corrosion | Weight and wind | Weather and care |
|---|---|---|---|
| GFRC, cast stone or concrete look | Does not rust; check any steel lid or hardware | Heaviest; stays put in wind | Freeze and thaw is the main risk; cover it |
| Powder coated aluminum | Does not rust like steel; salt can still corrode it | Light; easy to move | Soap and water; touch up chips |
| Powder coated steel | Rusts where the coating is chipped | Medium to heavy | Keep dry and covered |
| Stainless steel | Resists rust; can still pit near salt | Medium | Rinse off salt spray |
| Resin wicker over a frame | Weave does not rust; frame metal decides | Light to medium | Brush, rinse, dry, cover |
| Granite or stone top | Does not rust | Adds weight | Edges can chip; follow sealing advice |
| Porcelain or ceramic tile top | Does not rust | Adds weight | Porcelain absorbs little water; watch grout |
Concrete, GFRC and cast stone fire tables
“Concrete” covers several builds. Prism Hardscapes lists its Tavola tables as glass fiber reinforced cement with a hand applied patina finish. GFRC makes thinner, lighter panels than precast concrete, per Wikipedia’s overview of glass fiber reinforced concrete, but a GFRC fire table is still heavy. The Prism Hardscapes Tavola 2 36 in Pewter lists at 240 lbs and the Tavola 1 56 in Pewter at 360 lbs.
Other “concrete” tables use a different core. The 60 in Dark Grey Concrete Gas Fire Pit Table lists a magnesium oxide housing and top, with a steel lid and rain cover included. Read the housing line, not just the title.
A heavy table will not shift in a gust, but it is hard to move for winter. Water that freezes inside a material expands and can crack it over time, as Wikipedia’s frost weathering article explains, so in cold climates keep a concrete table covered, dry and off standing water.
Aluminum fire pit table frames
An aluminum fire pit table is the low maintenance choice. Aluminum forms a thin protective oxide layer, so it does not rust the way steel does, though salt reduces that protection, per Wikipedia’s aluminium article. Near the ocean, rinse it now and then.
Most are powder coated, a tough finish more durable than conventional paint (powder coating). Patio Resorts lists a rust-proof powder coated aluminum frame; its Paris 49 in Square Fire Table weighs 64 lbs. The Leisuremod Walbrooke Round Fire Pit Table uses one too. The Patio Resorts warranty text excludes freeze and wind damage, so shelter and cover a light table.
Steel: powder coated vs stainless
Plain steel is strong but rusts once its coating is scratched, so touch up chips and keep it covered. When comparing steel tables, check the listing for the finish type.
Stainless steel resists corrosion thanks to a chromium film, but it can still pit where chlorides are present, per Wikipedia’s stainless steel article. Many tables pair another body material with a stainless burner or door. Read the material line: one Direct Wicker listing has “stainless steel” in its title, but its specs list the main material as ore powder and fiberglass, with a stainless steel 201 burner.
Wicker fire pit table: resin weave over a frame
A wicker fire pit table is a woven skin over a metal frame. Synthetic resin weaves are often preferred for all weather use, per Wikipedia’s wicker article, and the frame decides rust risk.
The Direct Wicker Brown Wicker Oval Fire Pit Table lists UV resistant, mildew proof PE rattan over aluminum, a tempered glass top and a stainless steel fire system. Its care notes say to store it cool and dry, or tilt it under a water repellent cover with airflow. For the full lineup, see our Direct Wicker fire pit table review.
Stone top fire table: granite, porcelain and tile
A stone top fire table gives you a hard surface for drinks and plates. The Patio Resorts Rome 48 in Round Granite Fire Table pairs a granite top and matching granite burner cover with an aluminum frame, at 81 lbs. Granite edges can chip, and spills clean easier before they sit.
The Patio Resorts Venice 48 in Round Fire Table uses Italian ceramic stone with invisible grout and a matching aluminum cover. True porcelain tile absorbs less than 0.5 percent water, which helps in freezing climates; watch the grout lines.
Heat near the burner
The area around the burner gets the most heat, which is why makers use stainless burners, lava rock or fire glass and glass wind guards. Cover the burner only once it is off and cool, and follow the clearances in the manual.
Example tables by material
Materials and weights come from each listing.
| Fire table | Body or frame | Top | Listed weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prism Hardscapes Tavola 2 36 in Pewter | Glass fiber reinforced cement | GFRC | 240 lbs |
| Prism Hardscapes Tavola 1 56 in Pewter | Glass fiber reinforced cement | GFRC | 360 lbs |
| 60 in Dark Grey Concrete Gas Fire Pit Table | Magnesium oxide | Magnesium oxide with steel | Not listed |
| Patio Resorts Paris 49 in Square | Powder coated aluminum | Aluminum | 64 lbs |
| Leisuremod Walbrooke Round | Powder coated aluminum | Not listed | Not listed |
| Direct Wicker Brown Wicker Oval | PE rattan over aluminum | Tempered glass | Not listed |
| Patio Resorts Rome 48 in Round Granite | Powder coated aluminum | Granite | 81 lbs |
| Patio Resorts Venice 48 in Round | Not listed | Ceramic stone tile | Not listed |
Weight, wind and deck loading
Listed weights run from 64 lbs (Paris square) to 360 lbs (Tavola 1), before a tank. On a wood deck or balcony, ask a contractor or engineer whether the spot can carry the load. Light tables move easily but catch more wind, so use a sheltered corner.
Covers and winter storage
A fitted cover extends the life of any material; check whether yours is included. In freezing climates, drain standing water and cover or store the table. For natural gas, a licensed pro and local code have the final word on any connection.
For more, see our fire pit buying guide, or compare the Patio Resorts fire table review and the full Prism Hardscapes range.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most durable fire pit table material?
No single winner. GFRC and stone resist wind and wear but need care in freezing weather; powder coated aluminum resists rust and moves easily.
Does an aluminum fire pit table rust?
Aluminum does not rust like steel because a thin oxide layer protects it. Salt can still corrode it, so rinse it if you live near the coast.
Is a wicker fire pit table safe near a flame?
The wicker tables in our listings set the flame in a stainless steel fire system, not against the weave. Follow the manufacturer’s clearances and instructions.
Does a stone top fire table need sealing?
It depends on the stone and the maker. Follow the care instructions that come with your table, and wipe spills before they sit.
Questions about materials, weights or covers? Call us at 866-777-2590, Monday to Friday, 9AM to 6PM PST. Orders of $999 or more ship free by freight, and orders below that ship for a flat $200. See our return and refund policy before you buy.
