How to Make a Backyard Fire Pit Perfect for Summer Nights
A fire pit is a fantastic addition to any backyard, providing warmth, ambiance, and a perfect gathering spot for summer nights. Whether you're roasting marshmallows, telling stories, or just relaxing with friends, a fire pit can elevate your outdoor space. Building your own fire pit doesn’t require expert skills, and with the right materials and a little patience, you can create a stunning feature that will last for years. Here's a step-by-step guide to making a backyard fire pit that’s perfect for summer evenings.
Materials You’ll Need:
Fire pit ring: A metal fire pit ring (optional, but helps with structure and safety)
Fire-resistant bricks or stones: These should be heat-resistant and durable for the outer walls of the pit.
Gravel: For drainage and leveling the base.
Sand: To create a smooth, stable surface.
Shovel: For digging the pit and leveling the base.
Level: To ensure your fire pit is straight and even.
Rubber mallet: For tapping stones into place without damaging them.
Tape measure: For ensuring proper dimensions.
Wheelbarrow (optional): To transport materials.
Safety gloves: To protect your hands while handling heavy materials.
Fireproof sealant (optional): To help seal the stones and prevent shifting.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Before you start building, select a safe and suitable spot for your fire pit. Consider the following:
Away from structures: Your fire pit should be at least 10-15 feet away from any structures, including fences, sheds, and overhanging tree branches.
Level ground: Choose a flat, level area in your backyard to ensure the fire pit stays stable.
Wind direction: Avoid placing the fire pit in areas where the wind could blow smoke into your house or your neighbors’ homes.
Accessibility: Make sure it’s easy to access from your seating area, but not too close that the heat becomes overwhelming.
Step 2: Design Your Fire Pit
Decide on the size and shape of your fire pit. Common fire pit designs include:
Round: The most traditional and simple shape, typically with a 3-4 foot diameter.
Square: A more modern, angular look that fits nicely into a contemporary backyard design.
Rectangular: A longer design that’s perfect for large spaces or for creating a dramatic focal point.
The depth of the fire pit should be about 12-18 inches deep to contain the fire properly and ensure safe burning.
Step 3: Gather Your Materials
Here’s a quick rundown of the materials you’ll need:
Fire-resistant bricks or stones: Choose stones that are specifically labeled for fire pit use. Look for heat-resistant fire pit stones, fire bricks, or landscaping pavers that can withstand high temperatures.
Gravel: About 2-3 inches of gravel will provide drainage and help level the base of the fire pit.
Sand: Used to smooth the surface and stabilize the stones.
Optional: Fire pit ring (metal) to line the inside of the pit and prevent the stones from crumbling over time.
Make sure you have enough stones or bricks to build the walls of the pit. You’ll need approximately 30-50 bricks for a small to medium-sized fire pit.
Step 4: Dig the Hole
Once you’ve chosen the location and gathered your materials, it’s time to dig the hole for the fire pit.
Mark the dimensions: Use a tape measure or chalk line to outline the shape of your fire pit. For a round pit, you can place a stake in the center and tie a string to it, then use the string to draw a perfect circle. For square or rectangular designs, simply measure and mark the corners.
Dig the hole: Start digging a 12-18 inch deep hole at the center of your marked area. This will be where the fire will sit. The hole should be large enough to accommodate the base layer of gravel and sand, with room for your fire pit walls on top.
Level the base: Once you've dug the hole, level out the bottom to create a stable foundation. Use a level to make sure the base is even so your fire pit walls will sit evenly.
Step 5: Add Gravel for Drainage
To ensure that water doesn’t collect in the bottom of your fire pit (which could make your fire difficult to start or cause stones to crack), add a layer of gravel to the bottom of the hole.
Add a 2-3 inch layer of gravel to the base of the pit. The gravel will help with drainage and prevent moisture buildup.
Level the gravel: Spread it out evenly to create a smooth base layer. Use your hands or a trowel to flatten it.
Step 6: Add Sand
On top of the gravel, add a thin layer of sand—about 1 inch—to create a smooth, level surface for your fire pit walls.
Spread the sand evenly over the gravel base.
Level the sand with a trowel or by hand to make sure it’s even.
Step 7: Build the Fire Pit Walls
Now it’s time to build the walls of your fire pit. Start by placing the first layer of stones or bricks along the outer edge of your pit.
Place the first row of bricks around the perimeter of the pit, ensuring that they fit snugly together. If you’re using fire pit stones, you may need to overlap the edges slightly for a more secure structure.
Level as you go: After placing each stone, use a rubber mallet to gently tap it into place and make sure it’s level. If you're using a fire pit ring, place it in the center of the hole to provide extra structure and keep the stones in place.
Build up the walls: Continue adding rows of bricks or stones, making sure each layer is level and evenly spaced. If you want a higher fire pit, build the walls to your desired height (typically 3-4 rows).
Optional: Use a fire pit ring inside the pit. This metal ring helps keep the structure sturdy and protects the stones from direct flame exposure, making the fire pit safer and longer-lasting.
Step 8: Add the Final Touches
Secure the top layer: Once you’ve built your walls, check the stability of your structure. If necessary, add a few extra stones or bricks to ensure it’s sturdy.
Seal the stones (optional): If you want to help prevent the stones from shifting over time, use a fireproof sealant to bond the stones together and make the structure more durable.
Step 9: Light Your Fire Pit
Once your fire pit is built and the materials are set, it’s time to enjoy your new backyard feature! Here’s how to safely light it:
Add firewood: Use dry firewood that’s safe for outdoor burning. Avoid using treated wood or wood that’s too wet, as it can create dangerous fumes.
Light the fire: Start your fire using kindling and matches or a fire starter. Allow the fire to catch and burn evenly.
Safety first: Always supervise your fire, and keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case you need to extinguish the flames. Never leave the fire unattended, and make sure it’s completely out when you’re finished.
Step 10: Enjoy Your Backyard Fire Pit!
Once your fire is burning, gather around with friends or family and enjoy your new backyard feature. You can also:
Roast marshmallows or make s’mores.
Set up outdoor seating around the fire pit, such as Adirondack chairs or benches, to create a cozy atmosphere.
Add lighting around the fire pit for extra ambiance in the evenings.
Tips for Long-Term Care
Cover the fire pit when not in use to prevent debris from accumulating inside.
Clean the ashes regularly to maintain good airflow and ensure the fire burns efficiently.
Inspect the structure periodically to ensure the walls haven’t shifted or cracked due to heat.
Conclusion
Building a backyard fire pit is a rewarding project that can turn your outdoor space into the perfect spot for summer nights. With just a few materials and a bit of effort, you can create a stunning, functional fire pit that will provide warmth, light, and enjoyment for years to come. Whether you're gathering with friends, enjoying a quiet evening, or roasting marshmallows, your fire pit will be the heart of your backyard gatherings.
