Using Solo Stove On Wood Deck: Ultimate Guide & Safety Measures

The Solo Stove is a popular portable wood-burning fire pit that many people love to use for camping, tailgating, and backyard bonfires. The question often asked is, Is it safe to use a Solo Stove directly on your type of deck? You may wonder if the high temperatures of a Solo Stove fire could damage your hardwood and composite decks. 

Luckily, a portable fire pit like the Solo Stove allows you to bring the fire experience outdoors safely. This is an important concern since you want to enjoy your fire pit without having to replace your deck boards.

In our guide, you can learn more about factors that affect this, like the decking material, Solo Stove placement, and additional accessories that impact how you can prevent damage. We’ll also cover everything you need to know about using a Solo Stove on a wooden surface or any other solo stove on any deck or patio.

By the end, you’ll better understand the key usage tips, from situating the stove to monitoring the fire. We’ll also give useful wood deck protection advice and fire safety tips,  answer common questions, and explain how to recommend using your Solo Stove on your deck surface. (Read Is Craftsman A Good Brand)

Should You Use A Solo Stove on a Wooden Deck?

When using your Solo Stove on a wood deck, you’ll see the Solo stove get hot, so using the Solo Stove stand is highly recommended. Since the solo stove radiates so much heat, it can potentially damage the deck, so a barrier between the solo stove and decking is advised.

Experts recommend using a stand that is designed for the Solo Stove and made of durable 304 stainless steel. You set up the solo stove to raise the Solo Stove off the ground, protecting your wood deck from scorching.

The stand also allows airflow underneath your solo stove and away from your deck, which improves the Solo Stove’s efficiency. With the stand, the Solo Stove burns hotter while using less fuel.

Some key benefits of the Solo stand include:

• Raises the Solo Stove off the ground to prevent deck damage.
• Allows airflow for better efficiency.
• The stand is made of 304 stainless steel.
• Portable and lightweight.
• Easy to use.

The stand is required for using the Solo Stove safely to avoid damage to your deck. So, when shopping for a Solo Stove, consider the solo stove stand and a fireproof mat for maximum safety. Note: Any prolonged use of your solo stove outdoors without using the solo stove stand can scorch the wood or other material on your deck surface.

Use Solo Stove On A Deck Using A Fireproof Mat

Besides the way the Solo Stove stand is designed, it’s wise to set up a Solo Stove stand and preferably a fireproof mat underneath. Using a solo stove shield on the top is also a good idea. This adds an extra layer of protection to your wood deck. The mat catches any stray sparks or embers that may escape from the solo stove fire pit if a shield isn’t used.

With the stand and fireproof mat combo, you can feel confident using your Solo Stove on a wood deck, composite, or PVC decking. The mat also helps stabilize the stand on uneven surfaces. (Learn How To Duct Heat From A Wood Burning Stove)

Pay Attention To Type of Deck Material & Hardness 

Can a solo stove be used on wood decks? Not all are made equal regarding heat tolerance. The wood’s type and hardness affects how quickly the deck can get scorched by a fire pit. 

• Cedar: More heat tolerant than pine but less durable for decks
• Redwood: Naturally fire and insect-resistant because of high tannin content
• Pressure-treated pine: Affordable option but lower heat tolerance 
• Ipe: Extremely dense hardwood able to withstand high heat
• Composite: Made from wood fibers and plastic, won’t burn but can melt the surface of your deck.

Composite and PVC decking won’t burn but can potentially melt if subjected to direct high heat. Consider placing a fireproof mat on any decking if using a Solo Stove. And be prepared to refinish areas that show a solo stove may have scorched the deck surface. 

Untreated wood would ignite slower than if the wood has been treated. Stoves are safe to use as long as you use a stand and stove set. The stand will ensure any deck material is fine for your stove.

Allow Solo Stove Stand To Cool Before Moving

The solo stove can be used in many locations. However, when you’re done enjoying the fire with your Solo Stove, let the stove completely cool before moving it off the deck.

The solo stove doesn’t cool fast, and the bottom of the stove and sides retain heat for a while after the fire dies out. Quickly relocating a hot Solo Stove could damage your deck by scorching the wood. Give the stove adequate time to cool down to avoid this problem.

Use The Solo Stove With Manufacturer Approved Fuels

Stick to approved fuels when burning a fire in your Solo Stove on a wood deck. The stove is designed always to use dry seasoned wood logs, sticks, or wood pellets. Avoid using prohibited items like charcoal briquettes, gasoline, or plastics that could damage the stove and create toxic smoke.

Burning appropriate dry firewood reduces the chance of dangerous sparks escaping. Still, always keep a fire extinguisher or water hose nearby when using a fire pit on a deck just to be safe. Never leave a Solo Stove on a deck without supervision or a shield. Embers may escape when adding new wood to the fire. Supervise the stove at all times when in use. (Learn How To Fix Yellow Flame On Gas Burner)

Use Caution On Windy Days 

Wind can increase the chances of stray embers drifting out of your Solo Stove on a wooden deck. Be extra vigilant about monitoring the fire on windy days. Avoid using the stove in excessively windy conditions.

Have a fire extinguisher and water ready in case the wind blows sparks onto the deck. And don’t leave the fire unattended during windy weather. The stove stand will provide added stability in breezy conditions. We recommend using the solo stove shield on a wood deck to avoid the wind-blowing embers that could start a fire.

Summary

From backcountry camping to backyard barbecuing, the Solo Stove is a great way to get comfort and a popular portable fire pit option. Homeowners with wood decks can use certain precautions to safely and responsibly use a Solo Stove outside, even though solo stoves emit less heat than other fire pit options. (Learn How To Clean Electric Stove)

The key to protecting your deck is to avoid direct excessive heat exposure. Allowing proper ventilation under the stove also improves efficiency. Placing your solo stove safely from deck edges and rails to avoid fire hazards and enjoy your Solo Stove.

With sensible safety measures like using the stand and fireproof mat, you can enjoy a cozy fire and maximize deck life. Always be sure to supervise the stove when burning on a wood deck diligently. Follow the usage and safety tips covered here for an amazing backyard fire experience.

FAQs About Using Solo Stove on a Wood Deck

Is it safe to use my Solo Stove on a Trex deck?

Trex composite decking is fire-resistant and won’t burn. However, intense direct heat might warp or melt the plastic-wood material. Use the stove stand and fireproof mat around the solo stove for protection.

What precautions should I take when using a Solo Stove on a wood deck?

Use the stove stand, fireproof mat, approved fuels only, position away from edges, supervise at all times, and let the stove fully cool before moving. Inspect for damage afterward. Consider a dedicated fire pit area. Ensure you never set up your Solo Stove without the solo stove stand and directly on the wooden surface. (Learn How Hot Does A Wood Stove Get)

Can I use Solo Stove on a 2nd story deck?

Using a Solo Stove on an elevated deck is not recommended, especially without a railing. The risks of embers falling and fire spreading are too great. Stick to fire pits on ground-level surfaces.

Should I use my Solo Stove Bonfire on a deck?

The Bonfire model works the same as other Solo Stove models. Follow the same safety tips and use a stand and mat. The larger Bonfire may require an even safer clearance from deck edges.

What about using a Solo Stove on a patio or paver area?

Hardscaping like concrete, stone, or brick pavers are ideal surfaces to put a Solo Stove on. Avoid placing it directly on grass or dirt, which can kill vegetation. Ensure adequate clearance from the house or wood fences.