Looking for Gas Firepit advise

[Sthepro8]

I just built a new deck, 2nd story over my walk out basement. It's TimberTech and I want to install a gas fire pit i'm going to build myself. I had a 1" gas line run from my main to the pit location.

I'm going to create a rectangular fire pit table, probably frame it out and use a TimberTech for the veneer. I've already ordered a burner and pan. the American Fireglass 48"x14" which I believe is rated for 180k-200k BTUs.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BM1XLOS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


Questions I have:

• Should I install a pressure regulator or just a key valve?
• Do I need to use aluminum framing or is wood ok?
• Do I need to worry about a heat barrier between the fire pan and the floor boards? I expect it to be raised about 12-24" above the deck.
• Any other tips or tricks you would recommend?

 

[DAKSY]

By no means an expert on the construction of what you wnat,
but I've seen & sold many different types & based on what I've
learned, I suggest the following.

A regulator shouldn't be required, unless you are burning LP.
I would use either aluminum or stainless steel studs & box the framing with dura rock.
Then you can finish with tile, stone or cultured stone the outside for a nicer presentation.
If you make the base of the unit with dura rock on the bottom, you should be good to go.
I would box in the top, picture framing the burner, with studs as well to support the dura rock,
the burner & the fireglass or stones you are nesting the burner tubes in.
I would also hinge one side for access to the underside of the pan just in case...

HTH, & others may add their $.02 now...