Build a Fire Pit for the Cooler Weather

What is exactly is a fire pit, you ask? A built-in fire pit is a grand campfire surrounded by stone walls to contain the heat and flames. This is essential as it prevents any brush fires. Whether it’s to make some tasty s’mores or to warm yourselves up as you share stories with the family, having your own fire pit is a great investment for your backyard. Orlando pavers specialist, Bedrock Industries, would like to share how to build one step-by-step.

• Check Your Local Codes: The first and vital step to building a fire pit is to check your local codes in regards to open flames. The pit cannot be too close to the house, any overhanging trees, and other flammable structures.

• Set the Blocks: Layout a circle of blocks where you want your fire pit. Cutting the blocks may be required to get the right size of your circle. Use a 3-inch chisel and brick hammer to split the blocks. You can then smooth the edges with the end of the brick hammer. Once you’re done, put the cut blocks into the circle.

• Mark the Pit’s Location: Before marking, double check that all the blocks are tightly together and lined up. Using a spade, mark the circle about an inch away from the blocks. Write down how many stones are in your ring and then set them aside.

• Create a Level Trench: Use a spade to dig a straight-sided trench. The height should be about a feet deep and the width should be one block. Then, dig down six inches in the area encircle by the trench. See if the blocks will fit into your circle. If not, continue to dig to widen the trench. Once you’re finished, remove the blocks.

• Fill the Trench: Take ¾-inch drainage gravel and fill about six inches of the trench. If needed, fill in more to keep the trench level and even.

• Level the First Course: Lay the first block in the ring. Use a two-foot level, check to see if it sits level side to side and front to back. If the block is too high, use a rubber mallet to lower it. On the other hand, if it’s too low, shim it slightly with patio base. Next, lay down the next block and tightly line them up. Continue with the rest of the blocks until the ring is complete.

• Set Up the Walls: Use a caulking gun to create a zigzag line of masonry adhesive across two adjacent blocks. Center a block over the glue-covered stones. Continue on until the second course is completed.

• Fill the Pit: Fill the pit with six inches of gravel to support the first two courses. Then, glue and set the third and fourth courses. Place the iron campfire ring into the circle and adjust as needed. Fill in any space between the ring and wall to top the with gravel.

• Cap the Blocks: Loosely arrange the cap pieces on top of the walls. Set one stone edge over the next and continue to mark where they meet. For thicker natural stone, a grinder fitted with a diamond blade can be used. For blocks, glue the pieces on top of the wall. For natural stone, mix dry mortar and bonding additive to wet the wall. Lay a large mound of mortar on two blocks. With the point of the trowel, create grooves. Next, lay down the capstone and level it. Continue to lay the capstones until the wall is completed. Wait two days before setting a fire.

Building a fire pit usually takes about two days and can be a fairly difficult task. However, with the right tools and planning, it’s very rewarding. Bedrock Industries can assist with your Orlando pavers and their required tools. Get the tools needed for your pit by calling us at 407-859-1300.