Whether you’re looking to create an outdoor gathering space, or just want to add something special to your backyard, an in-ground fire pit is the perfect way to do it. Building an in-ground fire pit can be a challenging DIY project, but with the right tools and instructions, it can be done! In this blog post, we will provide you with 5 easy steps how to help guide you through the process of building an in-ground fire pit.
Safety Tips: Before Your Start
Before you start building an in-ground fire pit, it’s important to take certain safety precautions. Here are five safety tips to keep in mind:
By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your in-ground fire pit will be both safe and enjoyable to use!
What is Building an In-Ground Fire Pit?
Creating an in-ground fire pit is a great way to add a unique and stylish feature to your outdoor space. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy gathering spot for friends and family, or just a space to relax and enjoy a night by the fire, an in-ground fire pit can be a great way to do it. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the basics of building an in-ground fire pit, including material options, safety considerations, and installation tips.
How to Build Fire Pit with Concrete Pavers:
Building an in-ground fire pit can be a great way to add warmth and atmosphere to your backyard. But if you’re not sure how to go about it, the process can seem daunting. Here are five easy steps to building an in-ground fire pit using concrete pavers:
1. Find an Appropriate Space: Before you start, it’s important to pick the right spot. Find a flat area with good drainage and away from any structures, trees, or plants. You also want to make sure that your fire pit is at least ten feet away from your house.
2. Gather Supplies: To build your fire pit, you’ll need concrete pavers, gravel, sand, a shovel, measuring tape, a level, and a circle cutter.
3. Create the Base: Start by creating the base of your fire pit. Place the gravel and sand on the ground in a circle that’s slightly larger than the size of the fire pit you want. Use the measuring tape and level to make sure it’s even and level.
4. Lay Down the Pavers: Next, use the circle cutter to cut the pavers into circles that are the same size as the fire pit you want. Arrange the pavers in a circle on top of the gravel and sand. Make sure to leave space between each paver to allow for air circulation.
5. Finish Up: Once the pavers are all in place, fill any gaps with gravel or sand and tamp it down. Your fire pit is now ready to use!
Once you’ve built your in-ground fire pit, make sure to use it safely and responsibly. Enjoy your cozy outdoor fire!
How To Build an In-Ground Fire Pit:
1) Pick the Perfect Spot
When it comes to building an in-ground fire pit, choosing the right spot is a crucial step. You want to make sure you pick a spot that is away from any buildings, power lines, trees, and other flammable items. Consider the wind direction when selecting a spot for your fire pit, as this will affect how far sparks will fly. Be sure to check the local laws about where you can build your fire pit, as some areas have restrictions. Once you’ve selected the perfect spot, you’re ready to move on to the next step.
2) Choose Your Materials
When building an in-ground fire pit, the first step is to decide what materials you want to use. There are several different types of materials that can be used to construct a fire pit, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
The most popular material for a fire pit is concrete, which is easy to work with and relatively inexpensive. Concrete can also be molded into any shape or size, making it a great option for customizing your fire pit. You’ll need to reinforce it with steel rebar for added strength, and make sure it’s built on a solid foundation.
Brick and stone are also popular choices for constructing an in-ground fire pit. Both materials provide a classic look and durability, but they can be more expensive and take longer to install. If you’re looking for a less expensive option, you can also use pavers or poured gravel.
No matter what type of material you choose, you’ll need to make sure the fire pit is located away from flammable structures, such as wooden decks or fences. Additionally, always check local building codes and regulations before beginning construction.
3) Decide on a Design
When it comes to building an in-ground fire pit, the first and most important decision is to decide on a design. An in-ground fire pit can be a unique and eye-catching addition to your outdoor space, but it should also be functional and safe.
There are a few key design elements to consider when planning your in-ground fire pit. Start by deciding on the size and shape of your fire pit. Will it be round, square, or an interesting geometric shape? Consider the space you have available for the fire pit, as well as the type of seating you would like around it. Do you want a more traditional seating arrangement with benches or chairs around the perimeter, or would you prefer more of a lounge area with cushioned seating?
Next, determine how much depth you want the fire pit to have. You’ll need to dig at least 6 inches deep in order to contain the fire safely. And remember to keep safety in mind when choosing materials for your fire pit. Select sturdy, heat-resistant materials such as concrete, stone, or brick that won’t crack or break due to extreme temperatures.
Finally, decide whether or not you’ll need additional components such as a grate or a spark arrestor. These features can help protect nearby structures and plants from flying sparks and embers.
By considering all of these design elements before you start digging, you’ll ensure that your in-ground fire pit is both beautiful and safe.
4) Start Digging
Building an in-ground fire pit is a great way to add a cozy and inviting atmosphere to your outdoor space. It’s also a great way to enjoy family time outdoors and make summer nights even more special. While building an in-ground fire pit can seem intimidating at first, the process doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are five easy steps to get you started on your in-ground fire pit project:
The first step is to start digging. Before you begin, it’s important to decide on the size and shape of your fire pit. Generally, circular pits are easier to build than square ones. Additionally, consider the size of the area you want to build in and what type of firewood you plan on burning. Once you have these details determined, use a shovel or spade to begin digging a hole for your fire pit. Try to keep the sides as straight and even as possible for best results. Depending on how deep and wide you want your fire pit to be, this could take some time. Make sure to wear gloves and protective eyewear during this step.
5) Add the Finishing Touches
Once you have built the walls of your in-ground fire pit, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Here are a few tips for making your fire pit look great and last for years:
By following these simple steps, you can be sure your in-ground fire pit will look great and last for years to come!
Conclusion
Building an in-ground fire pit can be a great way to add beauty and atmosphere to your backyard. With a few simple steps, you can quickly and easily transform your outdoor area into a cozy gathering space for friends and family.
In this blog post, we explored five steps for how to build an in-ground fire pit. From selecting the right materials and designing your fire pit to digging out the hole and adding the finishing touches, we provided detailed instructions for every step of the process.
While building an in-ground fire pit may seem like a daunting task at first, it’s actually quite easy when you follow these simple steps. Once you have your fire pit built, you’ll be able to enjoy it for years to come!
FAQS
Q. What size of fire pit do I need?
A. There is no specific size for a fire pit, it depends on the amount of people you would like to sit around it. The general rule of thumb is 1 foot per person for a standard in-ground fire pit or 2 feet per person if you are building an in-ground smoker. You can also add some seating around the fire pit such as benches, chairs, and tables to make it easier for guests to relax after dinner and enjoy the ambiance of your backyard landscape design.
Q. What kind of material should I use to cover my in-ground fire pit?
A. Covers should be made from materials that will not catch on fire, so wood and cardboard are out! Ideally, you want something that is durable, nonflammable and able to withstand outdoor elements such as rain or snow. It’s worth mentioning that most in-ground fires pits come with their own cover which makes this question less important but worth knowing just the same.
Q. Can I put in-ground fire pits inside my house?
A. Yes! Many modern homes have open floor plans that make designing a central gathering area easy. If space permits, we recommend installing an in-ground fireplace instead of opting for smaller ones. These full-sized units provide enough room to stand up straight, giving everyone ample room to walk around and mingle while still being close enough to the fireplace to enjoy its warmth and ambiance.
References & Additional Resources
- 4 Best Gas Fireplace Inserts – Reviews and Buyers Guide
- The Proper Way to Store a Gas Propane tank from – WikiHow.com
- 5 Best Gas Fire Pit Tables Reviews and Buyers Guide
- Best Tips For Fire Pit Safety – University of Utah
- How Much is a Cord of Wood and Firewood
Last Updated on January 29, 2023
