What is GFRC? A Strong & Stylish Choice for Fire Pits
Posted by NFI Certified Gas Fire Pit Expert on Mar 27th 2025
Material Matters
When selecting a fire pit for an outdoor space, durability and aesthetics matter. With fire pits being constructed with such a variety of material options, it is important that you make the right choice for your project. That’s where GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) comes in. If you’re unfamiliar with GFRC, it’s a high-performance material that combines concrete with glass fibers, offering strength, durability, and design flexibility—making it an excellent choice for fire pits.
How it's made
GFRC fire pits are made by mixing cement, fine aggregates, polymers, and alkali-resistant glass fibers to create a strong yet lightweight material. Unlike traditional concrete, which relies on steel reinforcement, the glass fibers in GFRC provide flexibility and durability without excessive weight. The mixture is sprayed or poured into a mold, which is designed to shape the fire pit into various styles and sizes. Once in the mold, the GFRC is carefully compacted to ensure a smooth, even surface and strong structural integrity. After curing, the fire pit is removed from the mold, finished with textures or colors (some manufacturers apply the coloring to the poured material first), and prepared for installation of the fire pit components such as the pan, burner, and ignition system.
Why Choose GFRC for Fire Pits
- Lightweight but Strong: Traditional concrete fire pits can be extremely heavy, making them difficult to install and move when needed. GFRC, on the other hand, is significantly lighter while maintaining high compressive and tensile strength. This means easier handling and installation without sacrificing durability.
- Resistant to Cracking & Weathering: Standard concrete can develop cracks over time, especially when exposed to extreme heat and fluctuating temperatures. GFRC is more flexible and resistant to cracking, making it ideal for fire pits that undergo repeated heating and cooling cycles. When exposed to the sun, a GFRC fire pit will maintain a lower surface temperature than a comparable metal fire pit, making it safer and more comfortable to touch, set things on, and fit into your lifestyle.
- Design Versatility: Because GFRC can be molded into various shapes and textures, manufacturers can create fire pits that mimic natural stone, wood, or other high-end materials while maintaining the durability of concrete. This allows for a wide range of stylish options to suit different outdoor aesthetics.
- Lower Maintenance & Longevity: Unlike traditional concrete, which may require sealing or special care, GFRC fire pits resist moisture absorption and surface damage, ensuring they look great for years with minimal maintenance. Even though this material is made to last, it's still a good idea to keep a cover on your GFRC fire pit when not in use to keep it protected from harsh UV rays, rain, and snow/ice. Flame Source offers high quality covers for fire pits of all shapes and sizes.
Get Started with GFRC Fire Pits
Whether you’re a landscaper, hardscaper, or pool builder, offering GFRC fire pits to your clients can elevate their outdoor living spaces with modern, durable, and premium-looking fire features.
Flame Source offers a variety of options to suit different outdoor designs. If you are a homeowner looking for assistance with a fire pit for your backyard project, we are happy to assist you and offer you Free Shipping Nationwide!
Contact us today at 947-941-4111, send us an email at [email protected] or sign up for our Pro Program here!