DIY Fire Pit Ideas and Backyard Firepits

While you may not require the use of fire in the same manner that your ancestors did, a backyard fire pit can be beautiful and valuable to any outdoor setting. Since the invention of fire, it has become a handy source of lighting, cooking, and heating while also serving as a social gathering place for friends and family. The experts at Paradise Landscapes and Hardscapes offer some fantastic DIY fire pit ideas to beautify your home and garden while allowing you to enjoy and spend more time in your yard.

DIY Backyard Fire Pit Ideas

The location of your fire pit is crucial to its success, and you should avoid areas where open flames could present a hazard, including:

• Under or near trees or overhanging branches
• Beneath powerlines
• Proximity to buildings and vegetation (20 feet or less)
• Upwind from homes around yours

Pick Level Ground

Pick a spot on level ground where people can sit, with water nearby. Once you have chosen the perfect location for your fire pit, check with local officials to see if there are any building or usage restrictions.

Begin by mapping out where you want your fire pit, shooting for a diameter of around three feet. Taking these steps will make it easier to talk with others and keep the flames under control. Build your fire pit on a non-flammable surface like stone, concrete, or gravel. According to local Annapolis or HOA regulations, make sure there’s enough space surrounding the structure that is safe from catching fire.

With a bit of creativity and effort, you can quickly build your fire pit without spending a lot of money. Use items you already have lying around the house, or purchase inexpensive supplies from your nearest home improvement store. Get inspired by these project ideas!

Type of Firepit Stone Materials

Landscape Pavers

It’s a breeze to build a fire pit with leftover paving stones. A beautiful fire pit complementing your current hardscaping is calling your name with stone pavers! If you choose this type of surface, ensure all of your pavers are level! The best way to do this is to check for levelness one by one. 

Fieldstone

This rural material looks great in any backyard and easily arranges into any configuration for a completely original appearance. Make sure each level is balanced and stabilized before progressing, using different colors and sizes for added flair.

Firepit Services in Annapolis

Red Bricks 

This type of firepit needs more work, with mortar or masonry adhesive used between each layer to get great results. For improved strength and sturdiness, stagger the courses.

Corrugated Culvert Pipe

The corrugated metal pipe 36-inches diameter is the perfect choice for a fire pit. The material will effectively contain the flames and ashes while withstanding years of use.

Cinder Blocks 

Cinder blocks are stable building materials that can be used to create a foundation. Cover the bottom of each block with adhesive and fill in any gaps using smaller stones for stability.

Concrete Blocks

You can construct a solid, low-priced DIY fire pit by filling in paver sand between concrete blocks resting on a bed of bricks, stone, or sand.

After selecting your material, check that your fire pit is level and completely enclosed. Let your structure set for 24 to 48 hours before using it. If you need assistance, ask a professional for help with this project.

Fire Pit Additions

You’ve already constructed your fire pit; now what? Enhance the usefulness and safety of your fire pit with these extras:

• Wire mesh cover
• Seating for enough people that are comfortable
• Tables
• Skewers or roasting sticks
• Storage for wood

Check out some of these amazing firepits for ideas! Contact Paradise Landscapes and Hardscapes in Annapolis to request an estimate or schedule service by filling out our short form below if you need assistance with the planning and installation of your backyard fire pit or any other landscaping issues.