Stone fire pits are great for backyard fires because they are inexpensive to build, easy to make and are not permanent. They make enjoying the backyard a bit easier and are sometimes a stepping stone to more elaborate pits. With the right tools and game plan, making your own backyard stone fire pit can be done in an afternoon. Here’s what you need and how:
Stone Fire Pit Tools and Supplies
- Shovel
- Sand/Gravel
- Large and Medium Stones
Build a Stone Fire Pit in 5 Steps
Step 1: Pick a Location
When picking a location, think safety first. Never build a fire pit under low branches, close to the house or on or by anything flammable. Build your stone fire pit in a convenient location with enough room for setting up chairs around it. Choose an area where the fire pit fits into your landscape and won’t make mowing a pain.
Step 2: Size
How big do you want your fire pit to be? Remember, you’ll want to enjoy the backyard fire without burning down the house. Since your stone fireplace will be circular, think in terms of diameter – how wide will your pit be?
Step 3: Dig a Depression
After deciding on the size of your pit, dig a small depression about 3 or 4 inches smaller than the size of your pit. Dig 4 to 5 inches down removing grass or anything else that may be flammable. Digging a depression allows you to add a non-flammable material to your pit and helps keep the fire from escaping over the stone.
Step 4: Add Sand or Gravel
Add a layer of sand or gravel to the depression. Both of these materials are non-flammable and will compact over time. This is more of a safety measure than anything else.
Step 5: Build a Stone Ring
Lastly, build a stone ring around the depression. Start by placing the largest stones on the bottom of the ring as a base and a guide. You can make the stone ring as wide or as tall as you wish but keep in mind you’ll need access to the center of the pit to start the fire and for cleaning.
A fewer layers of stone is fine. How many layers you add will depend on the size of the stones you are using. As you add the stone, make sure they fit well next to and on top of one another. You may have to move them around until you find the right fit.
Stone fire pits can be made in a jiff for that last minute sleepover or when vacation plans get cancelled and you’re looking for something fun and new to do with the kids. Since they are temporary and inexpensive, they make great starter fire pits until a more permanent one can be built or there is room in the budget for something more.
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