A fire pit is a great way to enhance your backyard and create an inviting space for relaxing with friends and family. With some planning and DIY skills, you can build a beautiful fire pit without hiring a contractor. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to build a fire pit from scratch.
Choosing the Right Location
When deciding where to put your fire pit, consider the following:
- Select a spot at least 10 feet away from any structure or trees for safety. This prevents embers from catching anything on fire.
- Consider wind patterns so smoke does not blow towards the house.
- Pick a location that is level and has good drainage. This prevents water from pooling.
- Make sure there are no buried gas lines, electrical wires or utility lines underneath. Call 811 before digging to get underground utilities marked.
- Check local fire codes for any restrictions on fire pit placement. Many require 25 feet clearance from the flames to combustible materials.
An ideal fire pit location is a flat spot in the yard away from overhead obstructions. This gives a nice view of the flames and allows smoke to dissipate.
Selecting the Right Fire Pit Shape and Size
Fire pits come in many shapes and sizes. Consider the following when choosing:
- Round – Most popular shape that allows seating around the entire pit
- Square – Allows for right-angled seating on benches
- Rectangle– Offers directional seating with a longer side to take advantage of views
- Custom shapes – Tailor the contours to your space; kidney shapes work well against a wall
The size depends on your space and needs:
- Small pits are 3-4 feet wide and seat 4-6 people.
- Medium pits are 5-7 feet wide and seat 6-10 people.
- Large pits 8 feet or more wide host bigger gatherings.
Measure your space and sketch out different shapes and sizes before building to find the right proportions. Allow at least 4 feet clearance on all sides for safe circulation.
Selecting Materials for the Fire Pit
There are several options for fire-proof materials to build the pit walls and base. Common choices include:
Bricks
- Inexpensive and easy to work with
- Withstands heat well
- Can be mortared together for stability
- Wide range of styles and colors
Concrete Blocks
- Affordable and durable
- Sturdy for stacking in various patterns
- Can get heavy so transporting is difficult
- Plain appearance unless faced with stone
Retaining Wall Blocks
- Interlocking blocks are easy to assemble
- Made specifically for outdoor use
- More attractive than plain concrete blocks
- Can be expensive compared to bricks
Stone
- Natural attractive look
- Can be mortared in place
- Difficult to transport and work with
- Flagstone and granite are good options
Poured Concrete
- Most expensive option
- Forms a clean custom shape
- Requires building wooden forms
- Heavy; difficult to alter or move later
Metal Inserts
- Lightweight stainless steel or aluminum
- Portable to move around the yard
- Come in many shapes; round is most common
- Must be placed inside a nonflammable base
Consider weight, cost, appearance and availability when choosing. The safest bet for DIY is concrete blocks or bricks.
Building the Fire Pit Base
The base provides a solid, level foundation for the fire pit walls. There are two options:
Gravel Base
This is the easiest for a DIYer. Follow these steps:
- Mark the fire pit location and layout the shape with string or spray paint.
- Dig out the area approx. 6-10 inches deep and 12-24 inches wider than the planned fire pit diameter.
- Fill in the space with crushed gravel, tamping down with a hand tamper. Leave 1 inch above ground level.
- Cover with sand and level flat with a board. This finish layer keeps gravel from mixing into the pit.
The finished gravel base should be flat, level and have good drainage.
Concrete Slab
For a permanent base:
- Excavate the area to 6 inch depth. Mark the layout.
- Fill with a 4 inch gravel base, tamped down.
- Build wooden forms following the planned shape.
- Fill with 4 inches of concrete and trowel flat. Allow curing for several days before removing forms.
The concrete slab method takes more work but creates a sturdy permanent base.
Building the Fire Pit Walls
Stacking material vertically forms the burn area walls. Follow these basic steps:
- Begin by dry stacking the first row of blocks or bricks around the perimeter of the base. Use a level to ensure they are even.
- Apply mortar or concrete adhesive to the top of the first row.
- Add the second row on top, offsetting the blocks for stability. Tap into place gently with a rubber mallet.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3, checking level often, until you reach the desired height. Most standard walls are 12-20 inches high.
- Allow the mortar to fully cure for at least 48 hours before using the pit.
Concrete blocks can be stacked straight or in pleasing patterns like herringbone. Keep the space between blocks minimal – no more than 1/4 inch.
Use firebrick or lava rock to line the interior if desired. This protects the walls from heat damage.
Adding a Cover or Screen
A cover improves safety and contains sparks when the fire pit is not in use. Options include:
- Metal spark screens – Attached by hinges to swing away when open. Best for containing embers.
- Wood cover – Hinged slab of treated lumber to place over the rocks when closed.
- Retractable awning – Manual or electric awning to open and close the pit. Provides shade as well.
- Built-in snuffer – Rotating metal disk mounted over the center to seal off oxygen and extinguish the fire.
Ensure any cover fits securely and is made of nonflammable material. Leave one side open to allow airflow.
Selecting Safe, Durable Fire Pit Materials
The rocks and logs used inside the fire pit receive the most heat. Use materials that won’t crack or explode when exposed to high temperatures.
Fire Pit Rocks
Good options include:
- Lava rock – Withstands heat well; available in black or red.
- Fire glass – Special heat-resistant glass in various colors.
- Firestones – Any of these dense rocks: soapstone, gabbro, basalt or refractory bricks.
Avoid river rocks and lightweight aggregate as they may explode in the fire.
Fire Pit Grates
- Cast iron grates last the longest.
- Steel and copper work well too.
- Avoid thin wire grates which burn through quickly.
Look for thick, heavy duty grates designed for fire pits. Mesh covers on grates prevent ember spills.
Fire Pit Logs
Untreated hardwoods like oak, hickory or mesquite are safe options. Avoid softwoods; they burn too quickly.
Never use pressure-treated lumber or painted/stained wood in the fire – they release toxic fumes!
Adding Finishing Touches
Additional features enhance the look and function of your DIY fire pit:
- Gravel or stone lining – Lines the ground around the pit for a polished look.
- Landscape walls – Stack natural stones or retaining blocks around the perimeter.
- Paver seating – Arrange pavers, bricks or stones around the pit to create seating.
- Built-in benches – Affix permanent seating or connect individual concrete benches.
- Gas fire accent – Add gas burner tubes under the rocks for instant ambiance. Requires gas line.
Apply creativity to make your fire pit truly unique to your yard. Focus on safety, durability, and comfort.
Safety Precautions When Using Your Fire Pit
Never leave a fire unattended, especially with children nearby. Follow these basic safety rules:
- Keep a fire extinguisher and/or hose on hand in case of emergencies. Know how to use them.
- Avoid loose clothing that could catch sparks.
- Extinguish fires fully before leaving them for any length of time.
- Allow ashes to fully cool for several days before removing them.
- Check local burn restrictions which may prohibit open flames certain times of year.
- Exercise caution handling hot rocks, grates, logs and ashes to avoid burns. Use long handled fireplace tools.
- Keep pets and children several feet back from the immediate fire area when in use.
With some common sense precautions, you can safely enjoy your new DIY fire pit for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should I dig for the fire pit base?
Dig down about 6-10 inches for a basic gravel base. If installing a concrete slab, excavate at least 6 inches down for a 4 inch thick slab that is level with the ground.
Can I use regular bricks instead of firebricks?
Yes, regular brick can withstand heat well. Just avoid mortaring the interior if using lava rocks against the walls. Firebrick is better for direct heat but regular brick works fine for walls.
What kind of gravel is best for the base?
Crushed gravel or pea gravel that packs firmly works best. Avoid smooth river rocks. The gravel should have drainage but still be tamped down firmly.
How much clearance is needed around the fire pit?
Most fire codes require at least 25 feet of clearance from the flames to any structure or combustible surface. Check local codes for exact requirements.
How close can patio furniture be to the fire pit?
It’s recommended to allow at least 6-10 feet of clearance around the entire fire pit for safe circulation. Ensure overhanging umbrellas are a safe distance away also.
Should I mortar brick walls or dry stack them?
Mortaring with concrete adhesive provides the most stability and security. Dry stacking unmortared brick is OK only if the bricks fit very tightly together. Mortaring is best.
What is the ideal thickness for a concrete slab base?
A 4 inch thick slab poured over 4 inches of gravel is ideal. Make sure it is level across the entire surface for stability.
How soon can I use the fire pit after building?
Allow at least 48 hours for any mortar or concrete to fully cure before lighting a fire. This prevents cracking as moisture evaporates.
What type of wood is safe to burn in a fire pit?
Untreated hardwoods such as oak, hickory and mesquite are good options. Softwoods burn too quickly. Never use pressure-treated lumber or painted/stained wood.
Is it OK to use a glass fire pit table?
Yes, glass fire pits are safe provided the glass is heat-resistant. Always check the product specs to confirm it is designed to withstand fire. Use a protective base.
Conclusion
Building a custom fire pit is an achievable DIY project that can completely transform your backyard. With some planning, appropriate materials and safety precautions, you can create a beautiful fire feature to enjoy for years to come. Just be sure to check local building codes for any restrictions and always make fire safety a priority. Invest time designing a fire pit that works with your landscape and meets your needs. Then select durable materials suited for the outdoors and high heat. With creativity and perseverance, you can build an elegant fire pit without the need of a contractor. Get started today on your unique fire pit oasis!