How to Build a Fire Pit With CMU Blocks

Fire pits can be constructed in a back yard using concrete masonry units.

Fire pits are a great addition to a back yard and can be built out of CMU (concrete masonry unit) blocks in a couple of hours. Install the concrete fire pit as far away as possible from combustible material but within easy reach of a garden hose.

Things You'll Need

• Rope
• Tape measure
• Concrete block, amount depends on size of pit
• Shovel
• Dirt
• Wheelbarrow
• Wire mesh screen
• Fire bricks, optional

Instructions

1. Check city ordinances to ensure that fire pits are allowed.

2. Pick an area in the yard that allows for seating on all sides of the fire pit. The pit should be far enough away from the home so that smoke can ventilate properly. Create an escape area behind the seating that allows people to get away from the smoke or flames in a hurry.

3. Create a circle on the ground using a rope. The diameter should be at least 4 to 6 feet to accommodate the wood length. Lay the concrete blocks in a circle along the rope with the back edges almost touching. Stack one to three levels of concrete blocks, depending upon your desired look. The higher the concrete blocks are stacked, the less time will be spent emptying ashes. Add a couple of inches of dirt on top of the grass in the middle using the shovel and wheelbarrow.

4. Build a fire. Start with rolled up newspaper and small kindling. Don't burn the colored ads, as they will just smoke. Install a wire mesh screen over the pit, leaving just enough space to reach under to ignite it. Light the newspaper and kindling. Add larger pieces of wood when fire is hot enough.

Tips & Warnings

• The pit does not have to be a circle, it can be just about any design. Just make sure the design is not too tight because the fire will need oxygen and pit will need drainage.

• Optional design 1: Build a inside wall out of fire bricks to extend the life span of the concrete block.

• Optional design 2: Dig a hole 6 to 8 inches deep and build the concrete block enclosure on ground level.

• Never leave a active fire unattended.

• Ensure that all ashes are completely out before leaving the fire.

• Always monitor wind conditions.

• Remove all tripping hazards near the fire pit location.

References

• Fire brick pictures
• Fire pit help

Resources

• Important information about fire pit materials