How to Build Fire Pits

Relaxing and calming, an open fire that is safely contained can be a true joy to watch. Roast some marshmallows or just relax on a cool fall evening gathered around a fire pit. Commercial fire pits are available for purchase, but they often lack the character that comes from built-in fire pits. Make your patio or campsite more attractive and appealing with a hand-built fire pit.

The Materials

you will need some basic materials for your fire pit. Concrete wall stones, cap stones sand, shovel, tape measure, level, steel rake and a tamper. The materials are all available at your local home improvement store, and the rake and tamper might even be available to borrow from a good friend.

Choose a Location

Location is everything. The last thing you want is to place your fire pit directly under a tree and cause a serious problem. Look for low-hanging trees, structures or power lines. Consider the wind as it moves through the property, as well. Try to place the fire pit where it will be downwind from your home or seating areas.

Prepare the Bed

Lay out the stone bricks in the approximate size and shape of your intended fire pit. Ideally, it should be between 36” and 44” across. Mark the area around the blocks with paint and then pull the pavers out. A hole 12 inches deep should be dug in the marked circle or square. Remove all grass and smooth the area out as much as possible. The area where the bricks will be replaced should be as smooth as possible.Pour a thin bed of sand into the hole. The sand should be several inches thick and should be tamped level.Lay your stones around the perimeter of the hole. Stack several layers of stones until you have achieved the desired height. The pit should be a minimum of 12” above the ground.Pour more sand into the pit until it is at least 4” deep.

Build your own fire pit to make your patio area more welcoming and attractive