Caring for Your COR-TEN Outdoor Fireplace: Simple Steps for Long-Lasting Performance
An outdoor fireplace isn’t just a functional feature—it’s the heart of your backyard living space. It’s where stories are told, meals are shared, and chilly Pacific Northwest nights are transformed into cozy gatherings. At Puget Sound Fire Pits, our handcrafted fireplaces are built to last, made from robust 3 mm COR-TEN steel paired with high-quality stainless-steel hardware.
These materials are engineered specifically for the outdoors. Unlike cheaper fire pits that rust through or need constant repainting, COR-TEN develops its own protective patina. That means your fireplace becomes stronger and more beautiful over time—with virtually no need for post-finishing treatments.
Still, a little routine care ensures your fire pit continues performing flawlessly for years to come. Here’s our guide to simple maintenance steps that will keep your RB73 fireplace looking and working its best.
1. Store Smart: Keep It Dry
One of the most important habits you can build is removing ash after each use.
Why Ash Removal Matters
Moisture Retention: Ash naturally absorbs and holds moisture from the air. If left inside, it creates a damp environment that makes it harder to start your next fire.
Cleaner Burns: Removing ash ensures proper airflow around new logs, helping your fire burn hotter and cleaner.
Protecting Metal: While COR-TEN is resistant to corrosion, leaving damp ash in contact with the steel interior can cause unnecessary staining or wear.
Best Practices
Let the fire cool completely before removing ash.
Use a small metal scoop or ash vacuum designed for fireplaces.
Store leftover ash in a metal container with a lid—never in plastic or cardboard, since embers can smolder for hours.
👉 Pro tip: Fireplace ash can be recycled into your garden as a soil amendment—making cleanup both sustainable and useful.
2. Keep the Glass Crystal-Clear
One of the biggest joys of an RB73 fireplace is the panoramic view of the flames through heat-resistant glass. To enjoy that view fully, it’s important to keep the glass clean.
Why Glass Cleaning Matters
Over time, soot or debris can build up on the glass. If left too long, the heat of repeated fires can burn the residue into the surface, making it much harder to remove.
The Natural Cleaning Method
Skip harsh, chemical cleaners that leave streaks or greasy films. Instead, use this simple, natural trick:
Lightly dampen a paper towel or piece of kitchen paper.
Dip it into a small amount of cool fireplace ash.
Gently rub the glass in circular motions to cut through soot.
Wipe clean with a fresh, dry paper towel.
This method works because ash acts as a mild, natural abrasive, lifting soot without scratching the glass.
Tips for Prevention
Burn only dry, untreated hardwood to minimize smoke and residue.
Avoid starting fires with newspaper, which creates excess soot.
Use the top-down method to achieve hotter, cleaner burns from the start.
By combining RB73’s built-in air spoiler system with these habits, your glass will stay clearer, longer.
3. Lubricate the Hinges Annually
RB73 fireplaces are designed with precision steel doors that open smoothly, but like any moving part, hinges benefit from a little care.
Why Lubrication Is Important
Prevents squeaking or sticking.
Extends the life of hinge components.
Keeps the door operating with the same smoothness as day one.
How to Do It
Every RB73 fireplace comes with a small tube of copper grease. Once a year, follow these steps:
Open the fireplace door fully.
Lift the door carefully off the hinge pin.
Apply a dab of copper grease into the hinge hole welded to the door.
Place the door back on the pin and close it.
That’s it—just a quick, five-minute task that ensures years of easy use.
Additional Tips for COR-TEN Fireplace Care
Beyond the essentials, here are a few other simple habits that will keep your fireplace in top shape:
Cover When Not in Use
While COR-TEN thrives in outdoor conditions, a custom cover helps protect the firebox from excess debris like leaves or pine needles.
Burn Smart
Stick to seasoned hardwoods like oak, maple, or fruitwood.
Avoid softwoods like pine or fir, which produce sticky creosote.
Never burn trash, cardboard, or treated lumber.
Position Thoughtfully
If you’re placing your fireplace near wooden decks or siding, consider RB73’s optional heat shields or concrete back walls. They add insulation and peace of mind.
Regular Inspections
Once or twice a season, do a quick check of:
Glass seals.
Hardware fittings.
Venting systems.
Early attention prevents minor issues from becoming big problems.
Outdoor Fireplace Care in the PNW
Caring for a COR-TEN fireplace in the Pacific Northwest has its own quirks:
Moisture Cycles: Our alternating wet/dry climate actually helps COR-TEN develop its protective patina. Expect the rich rust-brown finish to deepen beautifully over time.
Frequent Use: Cool evenings mean most homeowners use their fireplaces year-round. This increases the need for regular ash removal and glass cleaning.
Local Guidelines: Stay mindful of seasonal burn bans from the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. Clean, dry wood keeps both your fireplace and our air quality healthier.
With the right setup, your fireplace can thrive in this environment while adding warmth and artistry to your backyard.
FAQs About COR-TEN Fireplace Maintenance
Do I need to paint or seal my COR-TEN fireplace?
No. COR-TEN is designed to naturally form its own protective layer. Painting or sealing actually interferes with its performance.
Will my fireplace rust through?
No. The patina is superficial and protective. Unlike ordinary steel, COR-TEN resists deeper corrosion.
How often should I remove ash?
Ideally after each use, or at least once a week during frequent use.
What if my glass gets really black?
Try the ash-cleaning trick first. For heavy buildup, repeat the process several times rather than scrubbing aggressively.
Is hinge lubrication really necessary?
Yes. It’s a small step that prevents long-term wear. Think of it as oiling the chain on a bike—quick but essential.
Why a Little Care Goes a Long Way
One of the biggest advantages of choosing an RB73 COR-TEN fireplace is its low-maintenance design. Unlike cheaper fire pits that require frequent repainting or repairs, COR-TEN steel and stainless hardware are built for longevity.
That said, small habits—like emptying ash, cleaning glass, and lubricating hinges—make a big difference in ensuring your fireplace looks and functions beautifully for decades.
By investing just a few minutes here and there, you’ll protect your investment and enjoy the full aesthetic and functional value of your fireplace.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your COR-TEN outdoor fireplace doesn’t require complicated routines or harsh treatments. Instead, it comes down to a few simple, thoughtful steps:
Remove ash between uses to keep the firebox clean and dry.
Keep the glass crystal-clear with gentle, natural cleaning.
Lubricate hinges once a year for smooth, reliable performance.
At Puget Sound Fire Pits, our mission is to make your outdoor living experience as effortless as possible. From delivery and setup to ongoing care tips, we ensure your RB73 fireplace is a centerpiece of warmth and beauty in your backyard for years to come.
🔥 Ready to bring home a fireplace that combines artistry with durability? Explore our collection of handcrafted COR-TEN steel fire pits and fireplaces—designed for the Pacific Northwest lifestyle.
