Relaxing by a backyard fire is the perfect way to unwind after a long day. For millennia, the sound of wood burning and sparks flying into the night sky brought a special kind of peace that attracted people. But to truly relax and enjoy these moments, making sure your fire pit is safe is important. Make your own fire pit to ensure it’s designed with safety in mind.
So we made this guide to help you keep your backyard safe while making memories gathered around the warm fire with s’mores in hand — because let’s be honest, those are the evenings you want to remember. Without further ado, let’s get started.
4 Simple Steps to Make Your Own Fire Pit
These four easy steps will help you build your fire pit, turning your backyard into a cozy spot where you can enjoy the warmth and glow of a friendly fire.
Step 1: Plan and Prepare
Starting your backyard fire pit begins with some basic planning. First, it’s important to know what’s allowed. Contact your local fire department or search online for the fire codes in your area. Understanding these regulations make sure that your fire pit is both safe and legal. Find out key details like how far the fire pit must be from your house, trees, and other structures to prevent any hazards.
Now that you have the rules in hand, the next step is choosing the right location in your yard. Make sure to find a spot clear of any buildings and don’t have low-hanging branches above. Safety is your top priority, so the area should be open and clear.
Finally, if you are not entirely sure, feel free to call professional landscaping services. The professionals will instantly know where your fire pit needs to be placed to maximize safety and how to avoid common mistakes.
Step 2: Gather Your Materials
Now that you’ve planned where your fire pit will go, it’s time to get the materials you’ll need to build it. Here’s what to look for:
- Bricks or concrete blocks: These are the main components of your fire pit’s walls. Choose high-quality bricks or concrete blocks from your local home improvement store to ensure durability.
- Gravel: You’ll use gravel for the base of your fire pit. It helps with drainage and keeps the base stable.
- Fire bricks or a metal fire ring: Although optional, these items are highly recommended. Fire bricks or a metal ring protect the structure from intense heat, extending the life of your fire pit.
- Tools: Make sure you have the necessary tools handy. You’ll need a shovel for digging out the pit, a level to ensure your base and walls are even, and a rubber mallet or tamp to solidify the base.
The size of your fire pit and the quantity of materials will depend on how large you want it to be. A typical fire pit is around 3 to 4 feet in diameter, but you can adjust it according to your space and preference. You can always consult with landscape design professionals if you need help choosing materials or determining the right size for your fire pit.
Step 3: Build Your Fire Pit
Now comes the fun part—putting your fire pit together!
- Mark Your Pit: First, decide where your fire pit will go. You can mark this spot with spray paint. Another way is to use a string and a stake. Put the stake in the ground where the center of your fire pit will be, tie the string to it, and then walk around in a circle, spraying as you go. The length of the string should be half the total width you want your fire pit to be.
- Dig Your Pit: Next, use a shovel to remove the grass inside the circle you just made. You’ll want to dig about 6 inches down. Try to make the bottom flat and even because this will help your fire pit be stable.
- Add Gravel: After the hole is dug, fill it with gravel until it’s level with the ground around it. This gravel helps with drainage, so your fire pit doesn’t get muddy or filled with water.
- Lay the First Layer of Bricks: Now, start laying your bricks in a circle on top of the gravel. Make sure each brick is level. This is important because this first layer supports everything else you’ll build on top.
- Stack More Bricks: Keep placing more bricks on top of the first layer. If the bricks are heavy and fit snugly together, they might stay without extra help. But if you want to make sure they don’t move, you can use a special glue called masonry adhesive between the layers. If you’re using fire bricks or a metal ring to protect against heat, put these in as you go.
Remember to keep checking that your bricks are straight and level as you build up. This keeps your fire pit safe and sturdy.
Step 4: Enjoy Your New Fire Pit
Now that your fire pit is ready, it’s time to enjoy it! Pull up some chairs, get some firewood, and why not grab some marshmallows to roast? As you ready for a cozy fire, remember a few key safety tips:
- Always start your fire safely. Make sure it’s small enough to control and use only materials that burn cleanly and safely.
- Keep a garden hose or a bucket of sand close by, just in case you need to put out the fire quickly.
- Never leave your fire unattended. Always make sure an adult is there to keep an eye on it.
Summing it up!
Building a fire pit is an easy way to give your backyard something unique. It is the perfect setting for a quiet late afternoon with your favourite book or an energetic evening partying with loved ones. Remember, if you ever need help or want your backyard to be perfect heaven on Earth, you can always contact the professionals.
Building a fire pit is just the start! If you’re looking to take your backyard to the next level, consider reaching out to our professional landscape design service. Our experts can help you plan, design, and maintain a beautiful and functional outdoor space that perfectly fits your needs and style.