An outdoor fire pit is a wonderful addition to any backyard. Sitting around a cozy fire on a cool evening with family and friends is a simple pleasure. Building your own fire pit is an easy weekend project that can be customized to suit your style and space. With a few key considerations and the right materials, you’ll be enjoying your new outdoor fireplace in no time.
Choose the Right Location
Picking the perfect spot is key for safety and enjoyment of your fire pit. Keep these factors in mind when selecting an area:
Safety
The most important rule when deciding where to put your fire pit is allowing for proper clearance from combustible materials. Refer to your local fire code for exact requirements, but you’ll typically need at least 10 feet of clearance from buildings, fences, trees and other structures. Avoid placing it under low-hanging branches or roof eaves.
Wind Direction
Consider which way the wind predominantly blows across your yard and situate your fire pit so smoke will not blow toward your house or gathering areas. Placing it on the downwind side of the yard is ideal.
Views and Access
Think about the views from your pit—do you want to look out over your garden or focus on a beautiful night sky? Also consider access to the home so it’s easy to grab firewood, snacks and other supplies.
Existing Features and Furniture
Look at how the fire pit will relate to your existing landscaping. Arrange seating at a comfortable distance around the pit. Ensure there is a clear pathway for accessing the fire safely.
Drainage and Utilities
Choose a spot that won’t flood with heavy rains. Avoid utility lines and pipes buried beneath the surface. Call 811 before you dig to locate any underground utilities.
Select Your Design
Fire pits come in many shapes, sizes and materials to work with your style and budget. Consider these options when deciding what to build:
In-Ground or Above-Ground
Sunken fire pits are built into the ground while above-ground models sit on top of it. Above-ground are easier to construct, but in-ground designs create a snug feel.
Portable or Permanent
Prefab options like metal fire bowls allow you to move the pit around your yard. For a permanent fixture, you can build an in-ground masonry pit.
Size
The size depends on factors like your available space and number of people you want to accommodate. Standard sizes range from 3-5 feet in diameter but you can go larger or smaller if you wish.
Shape
Circle shapes allow more seating around the pit but square and rectangle designs work well too. You can also get creative with kidney shapes or other freeform edged.
Materials
Choose durable materials like bricks, concrete, stones, metal or ceramic that can withstand high heat. Avoid flammable materials like wood framing.
Gather Your Materials
After settling on a design, make a list of everything you will need to construct your fire pit. Here are some typical materials:
- Concrete, bricks or stone for building an in-ground enclosure
- Sand or gravel for drainage
- Fireproof liner such as granite, firebricks or metal to protect the enclosure materials from heat
- Metal fire bowl, chiminea or galvanized bucket for above-ground portable styles
- Sturdy grate or andirons to hold firewood up off the bottom
- Metal poker and other fireplace tools for tending the fire
- A lid or screen to cover the pit when not in use
Shop around for deals on materials and accessories. Check online classifieds for people giving away free bricks, rocks or leftover landscaping supplies that can work perfectly for a DIY fire pit.
Prepare the Site
Once you’ve gathered supplies, it’s time to start prepping the installation site. Here is the basic process:
- Mark the fire pit’s footprint and dig the area 4-6 inches deep for in-ground styles. Above-ground models do not require digging.
- Clear away any grass, roots and debris. Use a level to ensure the area is flat and even.
- For masonry fire pits, lay down a 1-inch gravel base, compact it down, and level it off. Gravel improves drainage and prevents sinking or shifting of materials.
- Sand is another good base option if drainage is not a concern.
- Build a wood form if you need to hold materials in place while constructing an in-ground enclosure.
The right base ensures your fire pit will have a solid foundation for years to come.
Build the Fire Pit Enclosure
Next comes the fun part—assemble the fire pit structure based on your chosen design. Refer to construction plans if available. Here are some tips:
In-Ground Masonry
- Lay firebricks or concrete blocks around the inside of the hole in your desired shape. Use sand or concrete adhesive to keep bricks in place.
- For a sturdier pit, build another course of bricks on top, staggering the blocks to lock them together.
- Line the interior with fireproof liner before setting the bottom grate in place. Granite works great but firebricks laid on their sides is budget-friendly.
- Mortar is not required for simple stacked constructions, but makes a stronger bond if desired.
Above-Ground Metal Bowl
- Choose a commercial bowl specifically designed for fire. Do not use aluminum or galvanized metal.
- Sit the bowl on bricks, concrete pavers or a gravel bed. This raises it up for better fire ventilation and allows you to level it.
- Place fireproof lining inside if needed. Pea gravel is a good filler.
- Set the metal grate just above the bottom so firewood is not sitting directly on the bowl.
Portable Fire Pit
- For a DIY portable model, place a heavy galvanized bucket or chiminea on bricks or pavers to raise it up.
- Add rocks, sand or fireproof base material inside. This will absorb heat and protects the bottom from burns.
- Lay a sturdy grate on top to hold logs. Grates designed for cooking over a campfire work perfectly.
Install Safety Features
Integrating safety into your design prevents accidents and contains errant sparks:
- Use mesh screens or tempered glass lids over the opening to prevent flying embers when the fire is not in use.
- Choose spark arrestor screens under open-design fire bowls.
- Surround the pit with noncombustible patio stones, bricks or concrete. This fireproof border contains sparks that pop out.
- Situate the pit at least 10 feet away from structures and keep a fire extinguisher handy.
Prioritize safety so everyone can enjoy the fire pit responsibly.
Finish and Decorate the Fire Pit
Add decorative embellishments to complement your yard’s style:
Patio Pavers or Gravel
Finish off the area around the fire pit to create a patio space with pavers or pea gravel.
Landscaping
Plant flowers, shrubs or grasses around the edges to integrate the pit into garden beds. Avoid plants that drop combustible leaves or debris near the flames.
Seating
Arrange gravel, stone, brick or concrete block seating in a circle around the edge of the pit. Place log rounds or outdoor patio chairs nearby for pulling up to the warmth of the fire.
Lighting
Set up lighting around the space to illuminate the area for nighttime use. Go with solar lanterns or low-voltage lights for an ambient glow.
Get creative with the finishing touches! The fire pit becomes a focal point for outdoor enjoyment.
Enjoy Your Fire Pit Safely
Once finished, it’s time to start enjoying backyard bonfires, cooking delicious food or just relaxing fireside. Keep these safety tips in mind whenever using your fire pit:
- Check wind conditions first and avoid building a fire in high winds. Wind can spread dangerous sparks.
- Keep water handy to douse the coals when finished.
- Never leave a fire unattended—burn only when you can monitor it.
- Dispose ashes in a metal container, waiting at least 48 hours to ensure they are extinguished.
- Avoid burning trash, leaves or other debris, which can create noxious smoke. Only use dry seasoned firewood.
- Keep pets and children a safe distance back from the open flames.
- Check local burn ban restrictions if fire danger is high. Many areas prohibit outdoor fires during dry conditions.
Sit back and enjoy your new fire pit with peace of mind knowing safety comes first!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about building outdoor fire pits:
What is the best material for a fire pit?
Fire-rated bricks, concrete, heavy metals, or stone are ideal primary materials that can withstand heat. Line the interior with a non-combustible liner like granite or firebricks to protect the main enclosure.
How big should my fire pit be?
Consider the number of people you want to accommodate around the fire. Standard sizes range from 3-5 feet in diameter but you can adjust based on your needs.
Where should I put a fire pit in my yard?
Choose a spot at least 10 feet from structures that accounts for wind patterns in your yard. Ensure overhead trees and branches are well-cleared too.
Do you need a liner for a fire pit?
It is highly recommended to protect the fire enclosure. Granite, firebricks or metal liners shield the main masonry or metal frame from extreme heat damage.
How deep should a fire pit be?
For in-ground fire pits, dig down 4-6 inches and create a gravel base for drainage. The walls typically extend another 8-16 inches above ground level depending on the design.
What can I use instead of a fire pit grill?
You can place logs directly on firebricks if a metal grill is unavailable. Chunks of granite also work. Just don’t let logs rest directly on the bare metal or masonry walls.
Should you cover a fire pit?
Yes, always cover the fire pit when not in use to prevent accidents and spark issues. Use a mesh screen, metal lid, or non-combustible patio stones arranged over the opening.
How far should seating be from a fire pit?
Arrange seating at least 6-10 feet away from the edges of the fire. This allows a safe distance to enjoy the warmth and view the flames comfortably.
What are fire pit safety precautions?
Keep a fire extinguisher on hand, never leave the fire unattended, check wind conditions first, keep children and pets back at a safe distance, avoid highly flammable materials near the pit, and ensure proper clearances from structures.
Conclusion
Creating your own outdoor fire pit is an easy and enjoyable DIY project for your landscape. With proper planning and care taken during the design and construction process, you’ll have a beautiful addition providing warmth and ambiance to your backyard for years to come. Refer to local building codes, use high-quality materials, and prioritize safety when enjoying your new fire pit. In no time, you’ll be hosting memorable nights around the crackling flames.