How to Build a Patio Block Fire Pit
A backyard fire pit lets you enjoy the outdoors all year, no matter what the mercury says. Use our how-to guide and build your own patio block fire pit, then enjoy it later that night.
Skill
Beginner
Time
Few Hours
Cost
Less Than $500
What You Will Need for This Project
Good to Know
Wall block sizes vary by style and market. Use the quantity in the material list as a guide and build up or down as you prefer. Generally, you should be using around 18 blocks per course, but you can add more to widen the fire pit if you choose.
Also, when purchasing wall block, remember that some have an interlocking lip on the bottom for use in retaining walls, not stacked block projects.
(link needed here to purchase fire pit insert)
- 1
Dig a Hole
Dig a 45 inch by 45 in. round hole, 6 in. deep. The first course will be buried to provide greater stability than if it’s placed above ground. Use your level to make sure the hole is roughly even all around.
Steps:
- 2
Finish the Hole
Once the hole is dug and roughly level, pour in paver base to a depth of about 3 in. Tamp it down until it’s well compacted, then use your level to make sure it’s perfectly even all over. For the finishing touches, add in a handful of paver base to dips until the hole is level all around, and smooth out bumps with the butt end of your mallet.
Steps:
- 3
Lay the First Course
As you lay the first course, make sure each block is level before moving onto the next one. Once you’ve finished laying all the blocks on the first course, use the remaining paver base to level and fill in any gaps.
Steps:
- 4
Lay the Middle Course
Rotate the pattern for each course so that you stagger the course underneath. Use landscape adhesive on each course to ensure better adhesion, making sure each course is level before you move on.
Steps:
- 5
Finish the Fire Pit
After the fourth course has been set and levelled, lay the fire pit insert on top. You won’t need to anchor or glue the fire pit to the stones.
Steps:
How to Terms
Tools, products, materials, techniques, building codes, and local regulations change; therefore, Lowe's assumes no liability for omissions, errors, or the outcome of any project. The reader must always exercise reasonable caution, follow current codes and regulations that may apply, and is urged to consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures.
Related Articles
Learn how to design, install, and decorate a stunning backyard pond for a one-of-a-kind outdoor oasis.
A retaining wall might be just what your landscape needs to create a solid foundation for a steep slope or enclosed decorative garden. Read our how-to guide to learn to make your own retaining wall and create a beautiful area that's easy to maintain.
Lay sod using our how-to guide to get the lush, green lawn your landscape deserves. Are you ready to roll? Let's get started!