How to Design an Outdoor Fire Pit
Fire pits are popular places to spend the evening socializing with family and friends. Some fire pits are used for warmth, while others are used to cook everything from s'mores to hamburgers. Designing and constructing a fire pit can be be accomplished in one to two hours. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Designated area
- Shovel
- Large stones
- Grill
- Skewers
- Variety of sticks
- Dry sand
- Bucket
Instructions
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How to Design an Outdoor Fire Pit
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1
Select the location. Find an area that is a comfortable gathering spot in an open area. Make sure the area is clear of flammable materials such as dried leaves and tall grass. The ideal ground surface is dirt or light gravel. Mark a circle on the ground using spray paint to show the circumference. Most fire pits are three to four feet in diameter.
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2
Dig a one-foot hole into the circle with a shovel. The indention should be even, with vertical sides. The indention will contain the wood and fire in the designated pit.
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3
Cover the bottom of the pit with three inches of sand. The sand will stop fire from spreading to roots and flammable items underground.
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4
Place large rocks around the perimeter of the fire pit to further contain the fire. If a grill will be added to the fire pit, build the rock boundary big enough to accommodate it. Do not glue the rocks together with adhesive as the adhesive could ignite or release harmful chemicals.
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5
Designate a side area for sticks and timber. Collecting these items before starting the fire will allow a long, continuous fire. Have a bucket for ashes as well as a shovel for cleanup near the fire pit.
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Tips & Warnings
When you're ready to start the fire, fill the pit area with dry sticks first to let the fire and heat build slowly. Add larger sticks as the fire grows. To cook food such as hamburgers and other meats, lay the grill on top of the rocks. Marshmallows and other treats can be roasted using long metal skewers.
Make sure it is legal to build a fire pit or have one in your backyard. Check with local authorities before building.
References
- Photo Credit http://www.flickr.com/photos/sbeebe/2850929765/
