grabbed a firepit off of craigslist; what to do about the handles

[addicted-to-smoke]

I guess its common for these handles to get lost ?

The handles were finished in some kind of bright, almost orange finish or stain but not actually protected very well. And unlike with a grill that might get pulled back in a garage or under the eves when not used, these would get left outside.

I still think it's a neat product; you can walk into any home improvement store today and see fire pits for sale, but Weber's grill reliability didn't transfer over to their fire pit.

[Bubblehead]

You can get a new set here.

https://www.ereplacementparts.com/handle-fireplace-p-1475698.html

Let me know if you need some.  Mine will be much better than the lousy replacement ones Weber sells....

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You are absolutely correct.  I picked up a set for a project and the bamboo handles that come with the set are pretty crappy.  I was more posting the link for the metal straps.

[AZ Monsoon]

On the left is what the original handles look like after they've sat outside for a few years (even under a Weber cover in AZ). The stain or whatever was just flaking off.

[Lowbrass]

What kind of/how much sand?  Do those who use it have trouble cleaning and separating it from the ashes when cleaning up after a fire?  Does anyone use a charcoal grate to set the logs on?


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[SixZeroFour]

A charcoal grate works really well - that's what I use at home. Don't use sand in mine, but if I did I would use kids sandbox or "play sand" as it is generally quite clean.

Nice find!

[SixZeroFour]

Oh... and don't do this...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ib9gXV8Gkjs

[mcgolden]

I would also recommend putting and old 22" cooking grate in the bottom if you have one. It creates good airflow underneath your wood and protects the bottom a bit.


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[Lowbrass]

I would also recommend putting and old 22" cooking grate in the bottom if you have one. It creates good airflow underneath your wood and protects the bottom a bit.


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As opposed to or in addition to sand?


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[MTW524]

FYI before using the fireplace, put a couple pounds of sand in the bottom.  I have found this will insulate the bottom and help keep the porcelain from cracking and crazing.

I completely agree with recommendation to use sand. Not only will it protect the porcelain, but it will also keep the fireplace from blowing away in a stiff wind.

Agreed. Go to the hardware store and get real play sand too. Regular dirt will rust out the finishes.

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[lksdrinker]

A charcoal grate works really well - that's what I use at home. Don't use sand in mine, but if I did I would use kids sandbox or "play sand" as it is generally quite clean.

Nice find!

FYI before using the fireplace, put a couple pounds of sand in the bottom.  I have found this will insulate the bottom and help keep the porcelain from cracking and crazing.

I completely agree with recommendation to use sand. Not only will it protect the porcelain, but it will also keep the fireplace from blowing away in a stiff wind.

Agreed. Go to the hardware store and get real play sand too. Regular dirt will rust out the finishes.

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Good call on the charcoal grate!  I had some pool filter sand that I used before lighting my first fire in it this weekend!

[captjoe06]

Just to catch up. Will the nylon reinforced handles work on the firepit? After just one use with brand new wood handles it’s obvious they’re not going to hold up. 


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[addicted-to-smoke]

I would think the wood handles would hold up if they are treated/protected. That's the thing with the Fireplace handles. Weber put that weird orange-y finish on them, but not an actual protectant such as polyurethane or even spar varnish.

[pbe gummi bear]

I would think the wood handles would hold up if they are treated/protected. That's the thing with the Fireplace handles. Weber put that weird orange-y finish on them, but not an actual protectant such as polyurethane or even spar varnish.

I think the fireplace handles are also made out of bamboo.

[Bob BQ]

Just to catch up. Will the nylon reinforced handles work on the firepit? After just one use with brand new wood handles it’s obvious they’re not going to hold up. 

I put taco shells on my fire pit... the wooden handles are holding up great! Would probably do a good job protecting the bulking reinforced handles, as well.