Today, I want to share how I built an outdoor fire pit in my backyard. I’ve always wanted a cozy spot to gather around with friends and family, and this seemed like the perfect project. So, let’s dive into the process.
Gathering Supplies
First things first, I needed to get all the materials. I made a list and went to the local hardware store. I picked up some retaining wall blocks that looked like they would stack well, a bag of pea gravel, and some sand. I also grabbed a metal fire ring to place inside the pit for safety. Oh, and I made sure to get a shovel, a level, and some work gloves because I didn’t want to hurt my hands.
Choosing the Spot
Next, I had to decide where to put the fire pit. I walked around my backyard and found a nice, level area far enough away from the house and trees. Safety first, right? I marked the spot with some spray paint, making a circle about 4 feet in diameter. This would be the base of my fire pit.
Preparing the Base
I started digging out the marked area, about 6 inches deep. This was a bit of a workout, but I got it done. After the digging, I poured a layer of pea gravel into the hole and spread it evenly. Then, I added a layer of sand on top of the gravel and made sure it was level using my level. This was important because I wanted a stable base for the fire pit.
Stacking the Blocks
Now for the fun part! I began stacking the retaining wall blocks around the edge of the prepared base. I placed the first layer of blocks, making sure they were snug against each other and level. Then, I continued stacking the blocks, staggering the joints like when you build with LEGOs. I did this until I had four layers, which seemed like a good height.
Inserting the Fire Ring
Once the blocks were stacked, I placed the metal fire ring inside. It fit perfectly in the center, with a little space between the ring and the blocks. I filled this space with some extra sand to keep the ring secure and to help with insulation.
Finishing Touches
I took a step back to admire my work. It looked pretty good! I swept away any loose sand or gravel around the fire pit and tidied up the area. I also made sure to water down the sand inside the pit to settle it in place.
First Fire
Finally, it was time to test it out. I gathered some firewood, kindling, and a lighter. I built a small fire inside the ring and watched as the flames started to dance. It was so satisfying to see it all come together. I sat back, relaxed, and enjoyed the warmth of the fire.
Building this fire pit was a fun and rewarding project. It wasn’t too hard, and now I have a great spot to hang out in my backyard. If you’re thinking about doing something similar, I say go for it! It’s totally worth the effort.
