How to Build an Outdoor Fire Pit on a Patio
Building an outdoor fire pit on a patio transforms the place from a sunny, summer oasis into a space that can be utilized on cool evenings and in cooler seasons. To install a fire pit, the patio should be made of concrete, pavement, tile or pavers as this will prevent accidental fires. Considering drying time, the patio fire pit will take only about a week to complete, and it can even be used for grilling and barbecuing. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Compass
- Sidewalk chalk
- Firebrick in desired shapes and patterns
- Heat-resistant mortar
- Firebrick capstones
- Grill screen or grill rack
Instructions
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1
Choose a place for the pit. Avoid placing it within 10 feet of your home or building; this will help prevent accidental fires and smoke damage. A pit placed in a central location allows 360-degree enjoyment, though a pit at an outer corner or side may be more convenient for your needs.
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2
Determine the exact location and use a tape measure, compass, and sidewalk chalk to draw out a circle that measures 3 feet in diameter. Hold one end of the compass at the intended center of the pit, measure out 1 1/2 feet in one direction, then pull the other end of the compass around in a complete circle, creating a mark with the chalk.
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3
Lay the firebrick into the shape, making a complete solid piece that covers the lines and interior of the circle you drew. Use heat-resistant mortar graded for fire pits; ask a sales representative to help you in purchasing the appropriate type of mortar. Do not worry about making a perfect circular shape around the edges, as perfection is not at all necessary for the shape of the pit.
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Continue laying brick along the edges of the pit. Build a wall at least 1 foot tall, stacking the fire bricks on top of one another along the edge of the solid pad at the bottom of the pit. Mortar is optional for the sides of the pit, as the sides are not as likely to leak ashes down onto the patio surface.
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Lay firebrick capstones onto the top of the pit's wall; again, mortar is optional. Capstones are not necessary either but make the fire pit look more formal and professional.
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