DIY: How To Build A Backyard Fire Pit

If you are looking for a fun end-of-summer project to spice up your yard, why not build yourself a backyard fire pit? Not only does it act as a focal point for your landscape, it also adds new outdoor activities your family can enjoy such as roasting marshmallows or singing campfire songs. This DIY project can easily be completed over a weekend with some basic tools and help from the experts at Garrity Stone Inc.

Steps To Building A Backyard Fire Pit

1. Check with your local fire department or city official to learn the local fire regulations for backyard fire pits.
2. Choose the location in a level spot that is a safe distance from the house and any overhangs, trees, shrubs, or other flammable objects.
3. Once you’ve chosen a location, dig a circular hole two feet wider than what is needed for the actual fire pit, and dig down about twelve inches.
4. Shovel four inches of gravel and four inches of sand, then tamp each layer flat and level.
5. Use paving stones or landscaping blocks that are angled on the sides. Arrange the stones in a circle to make the fire ring on top of your gravel and sand base, making sure that your first layer of blocks is secure and level. Fifteen to seventeen stones will typically make a medium- to large-sized fire ring.
6. Fill the space outside and inside the blocks with gravel all the way around in order to stabilize your stones. This will come most of the way up the first course. If you prefer the look of pea gravel, this is a nice, safe option as well.
7. You will want to build up the ring of stones about three to five courses high, but no more than 20 inches high to keep a good fire burning. Overlap the courses so they are offset, and leave a few small random gaps between stones in each course so the fire can breathe.
8. Your best option is to drystack the stones rather than cement them together or use adhesives, as these may melt or give off harmful fumes.
9. If you choose to, you can put in a metal ring and grate in the center of the stones for grilling.
10. Enjoy! Remember to always practice fire safety when using your new backyard fire pit.

If you have a certain type or color of stone in mind, ask the professionals at Garrity Stone Inc. before using it for your fire pit. Some stones are not fire resistant. River rock, for example, is highly flammable and can explode from the heat. The experts at Garrity Stone Inc. in Indianapolis, Indiana can help you kick start this summer project when you call 317-546-0893 today.