Building a concrete fire pit is a great way to add some extra functionality and style to your backyard. Not only does it provide a place for you to gather around and enjoy a warm fire, but it can also be used as a cooking area. Plus, concrete is an extremely durable material that can stand up to even the most extreme weather conditions when properly maintained. Our guide helps you with How to Build a Concrete Fire Pit.
The first step when building a concrete fire pit is to design and develop a plan. You’ll need to consider the materials you want to use, such as whether you want natural gas or want to make it a propane fire pit, and figure out your budget for this project. Once you have all of that figured out, then it’s just a matter of following the steps listed below and you’ll be basking in your backyard fire pit’s warmth in no time!
How to Build a Concrete Fire Pit
- Decide whether you want an indoor or outdoor concrete fire pit. This is an important decision because outdoor pits tend to be much larger and require more materials, while indoor pits are typically smaller and easier to build.
- Decide on the shape and size of your fire pit. Pits come in all shapes and sizes, so there’s no wrong answer here. Just make sure to leave enough room for people to gather around it comfortably.
- Mark out the area where you will be building your fire pit. Use a shovel to start this process and remove any grass in the area so that you have a clean surface to work with. It’s also a good idea at this point to lay down some plywood or other type of ground cover.
- Dig out the bottom of your fire pit using a shovel, removing all excess dirt until you reach the desired depth. The bottom of your pit should be slightly concave in order for the fire to have good airflow.
- Pour a layer of concrete into the bottom of your pit and use a trowel to spread it out evenly. Make sure that the concrete is at least 2 inches thick.
- Add rebar to the concrete and tie it together with wire. This will help strengthen your fire pit so that it doesn’t break apart over time.
- Cover the bottom of your concrete fire pit with 2 or 3 inches of gravel or small rocks. This step is important because it provides a solid foundation for your future fire pit and allows proper airflow.
- Use a level to check the fire pit for any major discrepancies in height, and correct them using more concrete if necessary. This step is very important because otherwise, your fire pit could be lopsided.
- Allow the concrete to cure overnight before continuing with this project, as improperly mixed concrete can lead to failures later on.
- Place a small layer of sand over the concrete in your fire pit, filling in any gaps between stones with more sand.
- Pour enough concrete over the sand to fill it up solid, and use a trowel to smooth it out evenly. This will form a base for your stone or brick veneer later on.
- Wait for the concrete in your fire pit to cure, and add a second layer if necessary depending on the thickness you desire.
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to any bricks or rocks that you plan on using around the border of your pit, and then set them into place one by one. Make sure that they’re level as you go so that your fire pit looks aesthetically pleasing.
- Allow the concrete in your fire pit to cure overnight before continuing with this project.
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to any bricks or rocks that you plan on using around the border of your pit, and then set them into place one by one. Make sure that they’re level as you go so that your fire pit looks aesthetically pleasing.
- Allow the concrete in your fire pit to cure overnight before lighting any fires!
Now that you know how to build a concrete fire pit, it’s time to gather your materials and get started! Just make sure to follow these steps carefully and you’ll be enjoying your backyard fire pit in no time.
If you’re interested in building a concrete fire pit, then check out the information below!
Design Considerations
There are many things to consider when designing your own fire pit, including shape and size along with other factors like how often you plan on using it or what type of fuel you’ll be using.
Shape and Size: Pits come in all shapes and sizes, so there’s no wrong answer here. Just make sure to leave enough room for people to gather around it comfortably.
Location: The best place for your fire pit is in an open area away from any trees or other flammable objects. You’ll want to be sure that it’s away from your house, but also accessible so you don’t have to walk too far with armfuls of wood.
Fuel: Wood is the most popular fuel for backyard fire pits, but if you’re looking for something cleaner then you might want to try out propane instead. Just make sure to check your local laws beforehand, as some places have restrictions on what kind of fuel can be used.
Now that you know the basics, it’s time to get started on building your very own concrete fire pit! Just make sure to follow these steps closely and you’ll be enjoying your new backyard addition in no time.
How to increase the life span of a concrete fire pit?
There are a few things you can do to help increase the life span of your concrete fire pit. One is to apply a sealant to the concrete once it’s cured, which will help protect it from weathering and fading. You can also add a layer of gravel or small rocks to the bottom of the pit, as this will provide proper drainage and prevent water from pooling.
Another good idea is to make sure you don’t set the fire pit up in an area where trees can fall on it, since heavy branches could collapse right onto your concrete fire pit and damage it. Just make sure to take these precautions into account when designing your backyard space!
FAQs about How to Build a Concrete Fire Pit
Q: Does Concrete Crack under heat?
A: Concrete does not crack under heat when used for a fire pit. In fact, it’s one of the best materials to use for this type of project because it’s so durable. However, if you live in an area that experiences extremely cold weather, there is a chance that the concrete may crack over time. But with proper maintenance and upkeep, your fire pit should last for many years to come.
Q: How do I keep my concrete fire pit from cracking?
A: Concrete is a very durable material, but it can still crack over time if it’s not properly mixed or if there are any major discrepancies in height. Make sure to use a level as you go and to check the curing process carefully.
Q: Can I use any type of fuel in my concrete fire pit?
A: Most types of fuel can be used in a concrete fire pit, but you’ll want to check your local laws beforehand to be sure. Wood is the most popular choice, but propane can also be used for a cleaner burn.
Q: Can I use my concrete fire pit as a grill?
A: Yes, a concrete fire pit can also be used as a grill. Just make sure to place your grill over the burning logs and not the coals, as this could lead to damage down the road.
Q: Can I use a concrete fire pit in my patio instead of a stone or brick veneer?
A: In some places, you can use a concrete fire pit as part of your patio design. Just make sure to check with your local municipality beforehand so that everything is up to code.
Q: What type of cover should I use for the fire pit?
A: Most fire pits come with a cover to protect them from the elements, but if you’re using a concrete pit then you’ll need to purchase one separately. Make sure to get a cover that’s made specifically for concrete fire pits, as this will ensure that it’s a safe fit.
