Do-It-Yourself Fire Pit

If you are anything like me you love a good fire pit. They allow you to stay outdoors later into the evening and fight off those pesky mosquitoes. Ever wish you could afford one that looked custom built? One that didn't rust in the outdoor weather? Here is an easy way to save mega bucks and have your neighbors wanting to put in orders. Check it out:

Location! Location! Location!
Fire pits should be placed on a flat, level area at least 25 feet from any tree. Since fire pits are strictly enforced by local building codes you are going to want to follow the rules on this. Know the codes in your area before you build. This fire pit will be about 2' tall, with a 5' exterior diameter with a 3' interior diameter

Foundation
1. To mark the center of your firepit hammer a rebar (available at any home improvement store for about $2.50) into the ground.
2. Then mark the circumference of the circle. One easy trick is to attach a string 2.5' in length to the stake, pull it taut and spray paint the circumference.
3. Dig the inside of the circle 6 inches down. Then use the same method as listed above to mark inner circle, 1' in from the outside circle. The inner circle will be the edge of the fire pit wall.
4. Mix concrete with water until it reaches a peanut butter like consistency. This will help your foundation stones to sit up. Lay the concrete in between the two circles so it is level to the ground.
5. The inner circle should be free of concrete to allow for drainage. build up concrete until it is about 1-1.5" below ground level.
6. Use a damp towel to smooth the surface and let try for 24 hours.

Building Outer Wall
1. Mix mortar and shovel approximately 2" of it on top of the concrete base. Lay the stones on the mortar. You want to make sure your stones are matching the slight curve of your outline.
2. Repeat. As the first few levels of stones begin to take shape, begin to lay fire bricks to firm the inner wall of the structure.

Building Inner Wall
1. Continue to raise both the bricks against the inside circle and the stones against the outside circle, filling in any gaps between with stones and mortar as the wall increases in height. Staggering the stones and bricks makes the structure stable and is aesthetically pleasing. Use a joint to remove excess mortar from in between stones.
2. Lay a cap of flat field stones on top of the wall using approx 1" of mortar so they adhere. Make sure the top is flat and level.

Finishing Your Fire Pit
1. Using a paintbrush, brush the inner circle of the fire pit to release any extra debris. Then water the whole thing down with a hose.
2. Spray the inside bricks black using high heat stove paint.
3. Fill the pit with a generous layer of river rocks.

For instructional video, pictures, and materials list CLICK HERE

xOxO - M