A fire pit can be a beautiful addition to your yard, but it’s also important to keep safety guidelines in mind. We’ll show you how to build a safe and sturdy fire pit that will last for years!
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Building a fire pit in your backyard is a great way to create a cozy gathering spot and extend your outdoor living space. |
| An electric fireplace is a great alternative to traditional fireplaces, offering cost-effectiveness and convenience. |
| Smokeless fire pits are a popular option for backyard gatherings, as they don’t produce smoke or require the maintenance of traditional fire pits. |
| If you’re interested in building a fire pit yourself, there are many step-by-step tutorials and guides available online. |
| When selecting a location for your fire pit, it’s important to consider safety guidelines and your local regulations. |
Find the Perfect Place for it
After you’ve decided where you want to place your fire pit, it’s time to consider its surroundings. Do you have an outlet nearby? Is there a safe distance between the fire pit and nearby trees or shrubs?
Is it far enough away from your home that sparks won’t fly in through windows? Will pets or children be able to access it easily?
If you’re unsure about any of these things, take some time before construction to measure out distances and make sure everything is safe for use.
Building a fire pit in your backyard is a great way to extend your outdoor living space and create a cozy gathering spot. If you want to learn how to build one, check out our guide on how to build a fire pit for step-by-step instructions and tips.
Before You Begin the Digging, Call Your Local Utility Company
Before you begin digging, call your local utility company to see if there are any power lines to be aware of.
- Call your local gas company to see if there are any gas lines to be aware of.
- Call your local water company to see if there are any water lines to be aware of.
Start Digging
To begin with, you will need to cut through the turf using a shovel. Once you have removed this layer of sod, use a pick to break up the soil underneath. This can be done by hand or with the help of an excavator.
Next, remove all the excavated soil using your spade or pitchfork (depending on how large your fire pit is). Fill the hole with water and let it drain out, then repeat this process until you have removed all of the soil from under where you want your fire pit to be.
Outland fire pits are extremely popular due to their quality, durability, and convenience. If you’re interested in purchasing one, check out our guide on where to buy an Outland fire pit for a list of options and tips on choosing the best one for your needs.
Add a Crushed Stone Base
The next step is to add a crushed stone base. Crushed stone is a natural product, so you can use it with confidence.
First, level the dirt in your fire pit area by pouring water into each corner and smoothing it out with your hands or trowel. Next, you’ll want to weigh down the bottom of the hole with rocks so that it doesn’t shift around when you pour in tons of concrete!
Once the sides are leveled out and compacted, then place some crushed stone on top of that layer so that there’s no loose dirt underneath; this will keep everything stable while constructing your fire pit’s foundation.
Using Crushed Stone for Fire Pit Base
| Product | Description |
|---|---|
| Oldcastle 50 lb. 3/4 in. Crushed Stone Gravel | This size of crushed stone gravel works well as a base material for large fire pits, offering good drainage and compactibility. |
| Pavestone .5 cu. ft. Crushed Bluestone (64 Bags / 32 cu. ft. / Pallet) | Ideal for creating a level, stable base for your fire pit, this versatile crushed bluestone can also be used for walkways or garden borders. |
| Vigoro 0.5 cu. ft. Bagged Decorative Stone Red Lava Rock | Lava rocks are a popular option for fire pit bases due to their natural, rustic appearance, and good drainage. This product is made from high-quality, durable lava rock. |
| Pavestone .5 cu. ft. Pea Pebbles | Pea pebbles are another popular option for fire pit bases, offering excellent drainage and a smooth, finished appearance. This product is made from durable, natural stone. |
| Margo Garden Products 1/2 in. 25 lb. Medium Black Super Polished Pebbles | These super polished pebbles are made from high-quality, naturally polished stones that can give your fire pit a sleek, modern look. |
Note: These are not endorsements and we encourage you to do your own research before purchasing any of the products listed above.
Lay a Circular Drip Edge to Prevent Erosion
- Lay out a circle of gravel.
- Place the metal ring in the center of the circle of gravel and place rocks on top to hold it in place.
Spray water onto your metal ring with a garden hose until it starts to rust naturally. Let it sit for about a week so that you can control exactly how much rust you want on your piece, as well as how thick it becomes from its own weight.
When you’re done letting things dry out and re-enforce them (if necessary) before sealing up your pit fire at night with dirt or sand if needed so nothing gets burned away during the day when no one should be using said pit fire after all!
Are you looking for a cost-effective way to add warmth and ambiance to your home without the hassle of a traditional fireplace? Consider an electric fireplace! Our guide on how electric fireplaces can save you money and improve your home explores the many benefits of electric fireplaces and provides tips on how to choose the best one for your needs.
Use Concrete Tree Rings to Give The Fire Pit Definition
Concrete tree rings are a great way to define the edges of your fire pit. Concrete tree rings are available at most home improvement stores, and they’re easy to install.
They’re also durable and long lasting, as well as inexpensive. In addition, there are many different sizes available so you can choose one that matches the size of your fire pit perfectly!
Using Concrete Tree Rings for Fire Pit Design
| Product | Description |
|---|---|
| Pavestone Holland Tree Ring | Made from durable concrete and designed to create a tree ring, this product can provide a stable base for a fire pit. |
| Oldcastle 16 in. Round Concrete Tree Ring | This circular tree ring is designed to create a defined area around a tree, and can also be used as a decorative base for a fire pit. |
| Mutual Materials Scalloped Concrete Tree Ring | This tree ring features a unique scalloped design that can add a touch of elegance to your fire pit. Made from high-quality concrete for durability. |
| Alliance Gator Shield Rectangle Fire Pit Kit | A rectangular fire pit kit that includes concrete pieces, this product can be assembled easily to create a defined and stable fire pit base. |
| Nantucket Pavers Tree Ring Kit | This easy-to-install kit includes pre-cut and sized stones made from high-quality concrete to create a defined area for your fire pit. |
Note: These are not endorsements and we encourage you to do your own research before purchasing any of the products listed above.
Finish with Lava Rock or Pebbles
You can use a few inches of gravel to prevent erosion. You can also use a crushed stone base for the fire pit. A drip edge is another way to prevent erosion, as well as giving your fire pit definition.
Concrete tree rings are also a great way to give your fire pit definition, and they’re easy enough to make that you may even consider making them yourself! Lava rock or pebbles are another way to finish off your DIY outdoor fireplace project!
Smokeless fire pits are a great addition to any backyard, providing warmth and a cozy atmosphere without the smoke and hassle of traditional fire pits. Our guide on where to buy smokeless fire pits provides a list of top-rated smokeless fire pits and where to buy them.
Keep All Safety Guidelines in Mind
Safety is always the number one concern when owning and operating a fire pit. You’ll want to make sure that no one is too close to the flames, that there’s water nearby in case of emergency, and that you’re not burning anything potentially toxic like plastic or rubber.
Keep in mind that if you do have kids around, they may be tempted to get too close to the fire—so don’t let them out of your sight!
You might also want to put some kind of barrier between them and the flames: either an open screen or something more substantial like a brick wall (which should be at least four inches thick). Plus, keep an eye on your pets as well; it’s best if they’re kept away from any heat sources until everything has cooled down again after use.
Interested in making your own fire pit but not sure where to start? Our guide on how to make a fire pit provides a simple step-by-step process that anyone can follow, so you can enjoy a cozy fire pit in your backyard without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
We hope you have a fantastic time building your own fire pit! Remember to keep all safety guidelines in mind and enjoy the time spent with friends and family around the flames.
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources that can help you learn more about building fire pits:
This Old House: How to Build a Fire Pit – This detailed guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to build a fire pit with different types of materials.
Lowe’s: How to Build a Custom Fire Pit – This tutorial is great for those who want to create a DIY custom fire pit and includes a video tutorial.
Family Handyman: Building a Fire Pit – This guide explains how to build a backyard fire pit with simple and affordable materials.
FAQs
What is a fire pit?
A fire pit is a popular feature in outdoor living spaces that allows for a controlled fire. Fire pits come in many shapes and sizes, and may be built from different types of materials including brick, stone, or metal.
Why should I build a fire pit?
A fire pit provides a great gathering spot in your backyard for friends and family to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It can also add value to your home and increase its appeal when you’re ready to sell.
How do I choose the location for my fire pit?
When selecting a location for your fire pit, it is important to consider your local laws and regulations regarding fire safety. You should also choose a spot that is far enough away from any combustible structures or materials.
Can I use any material to build a fire pit?
No, not all materials are suitable for building a fire pit. Some materials, like treated wood, can be dangerous to burn and release toxic chemicals. When building a fire pit, it’s best to stick to materials that are specifically designed for fire-resistant use.
Are there any safety tips I should keep in mind when using a fire pit?
Yes, it is important to follow safety guidelines when using a fire pit. Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby and never leave a fire unattended. It is also a good idea to keep flammable materials away from the fire pit and make sure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving it.
My name is Hellen James. I’m an expert in writing about fireplaces, hearths, and firepits because they’re a beautiful part of home decor, but also because they can be so much more than just a fireplace—they’re a way to enjoy the outdoors even when it’s cold outside!
