In the height of summer, nothing beats roasting hot dogs, making s’mores and watching the fireflies with friends and family. However, trying to fit an oddly shaped fire pit into your yard can be difficult if you aren’t sure where to start. Lucky for you, building a square fire pit in five easy steps isn’t as hard as it looks. Use this guide to get started on your own, or use it as inspiration when hiring someone else to do the work!
How to Build a Square Fire Pit in Five Easy Steps
Find your spot
Building a fire pit is a great way to enjoy your backyard and entertain guests. But before you start, it’s important to find the right spot. Look for a level area at least 10 feet away from your house or other structures. Once you’ve found the perfect spot, clear away any debris like leaves or sticks. Then, use a measuring tape to mark a square 4 feet wide.
Make an excavation
Start by excavating a square area that is about two feet wider than the desired width of your fire pit. For example, if you want a fire pit that is four feet wide, excavate an area that is six feet wide. The depth of excavation will depend on how tall you want the walls of your fire pit to be. Generally, it is best to make the walls at least 12 inches tall.
Prepare the base after excavation
- After you’ve excavated the area for your fire pit, it’s time to prepare the base.
- For a square fire pit, you’ll need to create four distinct corners that are level with each other.
- To do this, use stakes and string to mark out the perimeter of your fire pit.
- Then, use a level to make sure each corner is perfectly level with the others.
- Once you’re satisfied with the level of your corners, use pavers or bricks to create the base of your fire pit.
- Make sure that the pavers or bricks you use are level with each other as well.
Construct the formwork
Concrete is the best choice for a fire pit because it’s durable and easy to clean. Plus, it won’t absorb heat the way other materials will, so your fire pit will stay cooler longer. To pour and finish your concrete fire pit, follow these simple steps:
- Start by pouring a layer of gravel into the bottom of your fire pit. This will help with drainage and prevent concrete from cracking.
- Next, mix your concrete according to the instructions on the package.
- Once it’s mixed, begin pouring it into the molds, starting with the sides and then filling in the middle. Be sure to vibrate the mold as you pour to prevent air bubbles from forming.
- Once the concrete is poured, use a trowel to smooth out the surface.
- Next, let the concrete cure for 24 hours before removing the mold.
Finish the square fire pit and enjoy
You can paint your square fire pit to give it a fresh new look for a long time. Put the logs in the center of the fire pit, light the fire pit and enjoy with your friends or family.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to build a square fire pit, all you need is some good weather and some friends to enjoy it with. Don’t forget the marshmallows!
Building a fire pit is a great way to add value to your home and create an outdoor gathering space for your family and friends. With just a few supplies and simple instructions, you can have a beautiful fire pit up and running in no time.
