Can You Build Your Own Backyard Fire Pit?

If you want a fire pit in your backyard but are not impressed with the retail options, are concerned about cost or just want something original, can you build one yourself? The answer is yes. And it doesn’t take nearly as much effort or expertise as you might think. You don’t need to be an expert mason, either.  A few tools you probably have on hand, and maybe even some materials you have on hand, and you can build yourself a cozy, safe and enjoyable fire pit for those chilly evenings.

Local Codes

Before you should even contemplate building your own fire pit, check with the local fire department and local code officials to make sure you’re allowed to do it first, and if there are any special rules you need to follow. Don’t get yourself a code violation for no good reason.

What You’ll Need

As far as tools, you really just need a good shovel and some elbow grease to dig the pit. Then you’ll need some fire proof material like bricks, paving stones, rocks or field stones for the lining. You might already have these on hand from a driveway paving project, or maybe some bricks were left over when you had your house or fireplace refaced. If not, a good place to start before heading to the home improvement store is an architectural salvage yard, if you have one nearby. If not, don’t spend an arm and a leg on really fancy new materials. It’s going to get black anyway and its for protection and safety more than aesthetics. Measure your hole and do some quick calculations to determine how much you need to line around the sides of the hole, with enough to extend above the ground several inches. If you buy too much or not enough, just head back to the store.

Location

Pick a safe spot in your yard with at least 10 feet clearance from buildings, sheds, trees shrubs and anything else that may be flammable or combustible. If you have a yard that gets heavy breezes in certain areas, avoid them.

Build It

You can dig your hole in any shape you want; round, square, rectangle. Heck, go star shaped if it suits you. Just remember that odd shapes are harder to line. As noted above, line the sides and make sure you leave a few inches above grade. If you have a round hole and flat faced stones, arrange the stones in a circle and then fill in dirt on the outside of the stones, making sure they stay put. If you want, line the bottom. This is an added step and additional materials, but it will make cleaning out ash easier and keep your hole from getting deeper than you want it.

Safety First

Now that you have an in ground hearth, safety is a big responsibility you should never take lightly. A screened heavy steel grill that fits over it can keep embers from taking flight. Make sure to completely smother the fire once you are done for the night.

Keep it covered when you are not using it. Always have a fire extinguisher near by.

Although you want to save money but consulting an outdoor living experts team will always ensure that no safety and building codes are violated while building your own backyard fire pit.

5 Reasons Why You Should Install Fire Pit in Your Backyard

So, maybe you’ve been on the fence about whether or not to install a fire pit in your backyard. Will you use it as much as you think? Do they cost a lot for the value you’ll receive? What are your options? Are they safe? Here are a few reasons why we think you should get off the fence and start loving your new fire pit.

Add Coziness and Value to Your Property

Fire has inspired man from the dawn of time. It’s magical, life giving and life sustaining when used properly. Adding a fire pit to your backyard will add a cozy atmosphere that everyone will be drawn to. Whether it’s a group of friends or a romantic evening, your fire pit will become the focal point of your backyard. And it will almost certainly add to the value of your property as an amenity many people desire.

Spend More Time Outdoors

Even if you live in a region that only has cool nights, you’ll find having an outdoor fire pit means you extend your ability to be outdoors comfortably and happily. If you live in a climate that gets down right winter, your fire pit will keep you from being cooped up inside all winter long.

Entertain More

If you love to entertain, a fire pit is a must have for you. Your friends and family will love coming to your house for a get together once they know you’ve put in a fire pit. The sounds, warmth and smell of a dancing, crackling fire are soothing and communal and primal.

Functional and Safe

Many fire pits these days offer options for cooking, and cooking more than just wieners and s’mores. A grill grate and a tri-pod and you’ve got the perfect medium for that juicy steak. Moreover, fire pits are safe as long as you educate yourself and your family guests about fire pit safety. Don’t overbuild your fire pit. Make sure it fits your available space and make sure it’s level. Don’t build close to structures, landscaping or under over hangs.

Be as Original as You Want/Can Afford to Be

Do you want the ease of gas or the ambiance of wood? Do you camp and think you’ll want to take your fire pit on the road, or do you just want a permanent fixture? Are you handy enough to DIY your pit, or would you prefer to have it professionally installed? Are you looking for a place to sit around the fire and chat, or does a table top model appeal to your sense of dining flair? The options and selections are only limited by you. And the cost? Well, they can cost as low as around $100 or the sky’s the limit.

No matter what you choose, you should choose to upgrade your home and your backyard with a fire pit. You’ll enjoy more time outdoors, have great get togethers and increase the value of your home.