Build a DIY Fire Pit with Pea Gravel Seating Area
Easy DIY Backyard Fire Pit
When I moved into my house almost three years ago, one of the first projects I took on was building a fire pit in the backyard. But why build a fire pit in the first place? Not only do they provide warmth and ambiance on chilly nights, but they also make for a great centerpiece for outdoor parties and gatherings. And by adding a pea gravel seating area around the fire pit, you can create a comfortable and stylish place to sit while protecting the ground from frequent footsteps and aiding in drainage.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin building your fire pit and pea gravel seating area, you'll need to gather some materials and tools. Here's what you'll need:
Materials:
Bricks (enough to create a circular pattern and desired height for the fire pit)
Fire pit ring or grate (optional)
Plastic liner
Weed barrier fabric
Sand
Pea gravel
Tools:
Shovel
Rake
Tamper or plate compactor (I just used a big brick I had laying around!)
Level
Tape measure (or you could just eye ball it with some string)
Work gloves
Some of these items may already be in your garage or toolshed, but others may require a trip to your local home improvement or landscaping store. Once you have everything you need, you'll be ready to start building your fire pit and pea gravel seating area!
Steps to Build the Fire Pit
Building a fire pit out of bricks is a simple and affordable DIY project that can be completed in just a few hours. Here's how to do it:
Select a location for the fire pit: Choose a flat and level area away from any structures or flammable materials, and check local fire regulations to ensure compliance.
Lay out the bricks: Place the bricks in a circular pattern, leaving space in the center for the fire pit.
Dig a hole: Use a shovel to dig a hole inside the circular pattern, making it deep enough to accommodate the first course of bricks plus a layer of gravel and sand.
Add gravel and sand: Pour a layer of gravel into the bottom of the hole, followed by a layer of sand. Use a tamper or plate compactor to level the base.
Lay the first course of bricks: Place the first course of bricks around the perimeter of the hole, pressing them firmly into the gravel and sand base. Use a level to ensure they are level and straight.
Continue laying courses of bricks: Lay additional courses of bricks, staggering the joints between courses for stability. Use a rubber mallet to tap each brick into place.
Add a fire pit ring or grate (optional): If desired, add a fire pit ring or grate to the top of the fire pit.
And that's it! You now have a beautiful and functional fire pit that will provide warmth and ambiance for your outdoor gatherings.
Steps to Build the Pea Gravel Seating Area
In addition to the fire pit, a pea gravel seating area can add a touch of style and comfort to your backyard. Here's how to build it:
Cut the grass: Use a lawnmower or weed eater to cut the grass as low as possible in the area where you want to create the seating area.
Trace a circle: Use a shovel to trace a circle in the ground around the fire pit, leaving a gap of several feet for the seating area.
Dig a trench: Dig a trench around the circle. This trench will be used to bury a plastic liner to help prevent weeds from growing through the pea gravel.
Bury the plastic liner: Place the plastic liner in the trench, making sure it fits snugly against the sides and bottom. Fill the trench with the dirt you dug up and use a tamper or plate compactor to pack it down firmly.
Lay the weed barrier fabric: Unroll weed barrier fabric over the entire seating area. Use landscape fabric staples or rocks to hold it in place.
Add pea gravel: Starting from the outside edge of the circle, add a layer of pea gravel on top of the fabric. Continue adding layers of pea gravel until it reaches your desired height.
Cut the excess fabric: Once you've added all the pea gravel, cut away any excess fabric that is sticking out from under the gravel.
Congratulations, you now have a comfortable and attractive seating area around your fire pit that will protect the ground from frequent footsteps and aid in drainage. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your new backyard oasis!