How to build a fire pit yourself

Almost everyone loves sitting by a fire. The smell of wood and toasted sausages is very tempting. So if you have at least a front garden, do not hesitate and build a fire pit as soon as possible. Building a fire pit is not difficult at all, you just need to consider a few parameters. Also think about creating a stylish brick fireplace, which can work wonders in your garden too. After all, you could say that a fire pit is a kind of wood-burning stove where you will feel safe, and you can even cook on it.

Where is a suitable spot?

It should be an area with enough room for seating around it. Remember that the fire pit must be built in a safe location with nothing flammable nearby. Would you like a round or a square fire pit? If you have chosen a round one, a peg and a piece of string will help you keep its shape while building it. For a square one, wooden boards and a tape measure will do. Also decide whether the fire pit will sit above ground level or whether you will sink it to a certain depth.

What material?

There are several options. You can choose stone, brick or sheet metal, the important thing is that it is not flammable. It must withstand regular heat. With stone or brick, use a bonding material so that your fire pit lasts longer. In addition, allow for material around the entire perimeter of the fire pit, and do not forget to line the base. There is nothing worse than finding out halfway through the job that you are a few bricks or stones short.  

How do you build a fire pit?

1. First mark out the shape on the ground so you know where to dig. Use a peg and string to make a regular circle, and keep straight lines with a board. Then dig out the area to the depth of the stones, plus extra depth for the base.
2. The base is laid on the inside, so dig one more hole. Do not be afraid to compact and level the base thoroughly. Then start building the fire pit itself.
3. Lay the inner base with stones. Lay the stones from the edge towards the centre, because it is much easier to fit a suitable piece in the centre than to laboriously cut shapes to fit all along the remaining edge.
4. Sink the first row below the level of the base, which will make the fire pit sturdier. Lay the stones and bricks without adhesive, or reinforce them with a bonding material.

If you do not feel up to building a fire pit, do not be shy about contacting someone more skilled. If that option is not ideal either, get a grill. The advantage is that this kind of fire pit is easy to store, and you can even take it to your neighbours. And then you can try, for example, 9 Mexican foods.