How to Build a Firepit Area

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By 07hopekee
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(9 Ratings)

Great way to build memories!

Are you looking for a reason to enjoy the outdoors? Perhaps you had some tree's cut down and you need to dispose of the firewood but don't know where to start? Begin with a design, add your own elbow geese, and voila! You and your friends and family will be enjoying numerous evenings and late nights by the campfire.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Paper & Pencil
Stackable interlocking bricks/stones
Gravel
3mm Plastic
Level
Garden Shovel
Rake
Square Tip Shovel
Wheelbarrow
Firepit

Step 1

Use a pencil and paper to sketch your existing area. Take a moment to evaluate your yard and how much space you have to work with. Remember, you don't want to build your firepit too close to other structures in your yard. You will also want to make sure the area overhead is free from branches or trees growing low. If you have the room to spare in your yard, don't be afraid to think big. You will want enough area for the pit itself and room for chairs and people to gather.
Step 2

Kids love to help!

After you select the area and design the shape, you will need to purchase and order your materials. Calculate the width and length so you know how much plastic you need to lay, as well as how much gravel to order. Examples you may use for your wall barrier would be; retaining wall bricks, cinder blocks, or stacking stones. The barrier you use to surround the pit area will determine how much you need to order.
Step 3

Keep everything level and it'll look like a pro did it!

You'll want to lay your surrounding wall first. Build the perimeter one brick at a time. Make sure the wall is level by using a level on each brick. You may have to level the ground as you go by digging into the soil or adding extra dirt to raise or lower the brick.
Step 4

Once your surrounding wall is built, lay the plastic inside. Cut the plastic so it fits. TIP: It is best to use black plastic.
Step 5

Add the gravel on top the plastic. Make sure the gravel is at least 3 inches deep, but if you built your surrounding wall high, you may want the gravel a little deeper.
Step 6

Good times!

Place your firepit in the center of the area. This will allow room around the pit for chairs, friends to gather, and fire safety (debris which falls off the side of the pit or blows off the top of the fire will have a fire safe area to land.) Enjoy lots of great memories with friends and family!