With fall right around the corner, cooler nights will follow. The perfect weather for bonfires! No fire pit? No problem. We've got you covered. DIY fire pits are easier than ever and only take about one afternoon. Plus it will leave money in your pocket for all those smores you'll enjoy!!
Materials you'll need;
shovel
level
retaining wall blocks (we used about 36)
metal fire pit ring
7” square concrete pavers or fire brick for the bottom of the pit (we used about 15)
pea gravel to fill in the spaces (one bag should do it)
all-purpose sand (one bag should do it)
Step by step guide to build your fire pit
Step 1: Plan your location and layout
Always check local ordinance for your city code before building your fire pit. A fire pit should be built at least 15 feet from any structure and close to a water source. Ideally, you’ll want it on level ground. That will make building it much easier and sitting around it more comfortable.
Step 2: Determine the size of your fire pit
Once you have the location you will want to ensure it's big enough to sit around comfortably. Determine how many seats you will want around your fire pit. Then you will know the size of the metal fire ring to buy. Place the ring inside the retaining-wall blocks on the ground and mark the outside of the circle with the edge of a shovel.
Step 3: Dig a hole
Move the retaining wall blocks and metal ring out of the way and dig inside the marked hole. Make the hole at least 7” deep.
Step 4: Line the hole with sand
Add a 1” layer of all-purpose sand in the hole and tamp it down flat. You may want to use a level to make sure it's all on the same plain. This will make it easier to build and ensure your pit won't lean.
Step 5: Add your base row of retaining blocks
Lay the bottom row of retaining blocks inside the hole. Place the outside of the block on the very edge of the sand.
Step 6: Place the metal ring
Place the metal ring on the sand inside the base row of blocks. It should fit nice and tight up against the blocks.
Step 7: Place bricks on fire pit floor
Lay the pavers or fireplace bricks in the bottom of the fire pit. Cover as much area as possible. Try different layouts to cover the most ground.
Step 8: Add pea gravel
Fill the gaps between the blocks and the pavers with pea gravel.
Step 9: Place remaining rows of blocks
Stack the outer retaining blocks to your desired height. Keep in mind if you want exposed fire then you may want to go lower, if you want the fire completely enclosed you will want to go higher. Stagger the seams of each layer for visual effect.
Step 10. Enjoy!
Hire a handyman to help
Need help? Hire a handyman to come build your ideal fire pit so all you have to do is get out the smores and enjoy your new favorite spot! Give us a call.