How to Build an In Ground Fire Pit

There is nothing quite like sitting around a warm fire on a chilly evening. So if you are looking for a way to add some extra warmth and ambiance to your backyard, and looking for the right procedure of how to build an in-ground fire pit. This project can be completed in just a few easy steps, and it is sure to be enjoyed by family and friends alike.

Table of Contents

How to Build an In-Ground Fire Pit Step by Step Guide

Materials:

In order to build an in-ground fire pit, you will need the following materials:

Shovel
Paddle or tamper
Wheelbarrow or bucket
Gravel or crushed stone
Level
Tape measure
Circular saw or reciprocating saw
Hammer drill with a masonry bit
Masonry adhesive (optional)
Chimney cap (optional)

Step 1: Excavate the Site

Before you can start building your fire pit, you will need to excavate the site. First, use a shovel to remove the topsoil and then use a level to ensure that the ground is flat. If necessary, use a tamper or paddle to compact the soil. Once the site is level, measure out the area for your fire pit and mark it with spray paint or stakes.

Step 2: Cut the Foundation Blocks

If your fire pit is more than 24 inches in diameter, you will need to build a foundation. To do this, use a circular saw or reciprocating saw to cut 8 blocks of concrete. Make sure to set the blade depth to 2 inches (5.1 cm), or else it will be impossible to remove the top layer of grass after the concrete has fully dried.

Step 3: Mix and Pour Concrete

According to the manufacturer’s instructions, mix the gravel and Portland cement once you have prepared your foundation. Be careful not to leave out any ingredients, as this will weaken your concrete mix. Depending on how large your fire pit will be, you may need more than a cubic yard of concrete mix. Also, make sure that you never mix more concrete than you can pour in a single day, as it will start to harden quickly.

Once the concrete is mixed, use a wheelbarrow or bucket to pour it into the foundation. Use a level to make sure that the concrete is evenly distributed, and then use a tamper or paddle to compact it. If you use masonry adhesive, wait for the concrete to dry before applying it. Once the adhesive has dried, use a hammer drill with a masonry bit to drill the concrete blocks. Be sure to wear safety glasses when drilling into concrete.

Step 4: Install the Fire Pit Ring

If your fire pit is less than 24 inches in diameter, you can skip this step. However, if you are building a larger fire pit, you will need to construct a ring out of concrete blocks measuring at least 4 inches high. Set it in place once the concrete is dry and use masonry adhesive to glue it together. To further secure the ring, you can drill holes into the top layer of blocks and insert metal pins.

Step 5: Finish Your Fire Pit

Once your foundation has dried overnight, you are ready to finish your fire pit. Start by placing gravel or crushed stone in the bottom of the pit. You will want it to be between 1″ (2.5 cm) and 2″ (5.1 cm) thick; anything more than that might create drainage problems over time that could weaken the structure of your fire pit. After adding the gravel base, set the blocks that make up your fire pit ring in place. If you are using mortar, be sure to apply it between the blocks. Finally, use a level to ensure that your fire pit is sitting level.

Step 6: Add a Chimney Cap (optional)

If you want to keep sparks and ash from flying out of your fire pit, you can add a chimney cap. This will also help to keep rain and snow from entering the pit. Be sure to measure the diameter of your chimney before purchasing a cap.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use bricks to build my fire pit?

A: Yes, you can use bricks to build your fire pit, but it is not recommended. Bricks are not as durable as concrete blocks, and they might crack or crumble over time.

Q: Can I use a metal ring to build my fire pit?

A: Yes, you can use a metal ring to build your fire pit, but it is not recommended. Metal rings are not as durable as concrete blocks, and they might rust over time.

Q: What type of adhesive should I use to glue the blocks together?

A: You can use mortar, concrete adhesive, or construction adhesive to glue the blocks together. All of these adhesives are available at your local hardware store.

Q: Can I use a gas fireplace in my fire pit?

A: No, you should not use a gas fireplace in your fire pit. A gas fireplace emits carbon monoxide, which is a poisonous gas. In addition, it is not safe to use a gas fireplace in an outdoor environment.

Q: Can I cook food over my fire pit?

A: Yes, you can cook food over your fire pit, but it is not recommended. Cooking food over an open flame can create dangerous conditions, and it is not safe to do so. If you choose to cook food over your fire pit, do so at your own risk.

Conclusion: How to Build an In-Ground Fire Pit

There is a lot of work involved in building a backyard fire pit, but it can be a fun activity for you and your family. If you follow these instructions, you can build an in-ground fire pit that will give years of enjoyment to your and future generations. This article has covered the six basic steps for building an in-ground fire pit. Please feel free to ask them in the comments section below if you have any questions.