Outdoor fires make for a relaxing atmosphere. You can use campfires but need to use extreme caution due to their size and control issues. Alternatively, build a fire pit in half a day that can be used repeatedly without rebuilding. Fires are easier to control in a pit and can be a centerpiece to the area. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Pick a spot for the fire pit that is safe for open flame. Keep the pit away from trees, buildings or anything that might be vulnerable to an escaped spark. Choose a level location free from underground obstructions such as wires, pipes, roots or cables. These items are often only inches below ground. Make sure the area isn't where water pools or seeps as this may cause the pit to sink.
2. Pound a stake into the ground with the mallet at the center of the spot chosen for the pit. Insert the stake far enough so it will stand on its own. Measure and cut a section of string 2 feet long. Tie one end of the string around the stake. Tie the other end to the spike. Pull the string taught.
3. Draw a circle around the stake using the spike as a guide. Keep the string tight. Untie the string and set it aside. Use spray paint to highlight the outline of the circle on the ground.
4. Use the spade to dig up the outline of the circle. Remove the sod within the circle and discard. Dig out a 1 foot deep hole using the entire circle. Use the edge of the circle to line up bricks. Dig a 6-inch wide area within the center of the pit to a depth of 12 inches. This will be the pit itself.
5. Pour a 3-inch layer of gravel over the base of the entire circle, including the pit in the center. This layer will provide drainage to keep the area dry and keep the fire in place as well as provide for easy cleanup of the burnt wood. Pour a layer of sand over the gravel. This will keep the gravel from retaining heat and allow the pit to cool down.
6. Lay a course of paving stone around the edge of the circle. Make the edges touch to create a sturdy base. The bricks will be set on top of the stone.
7. Set the first course of bricks along the inner edge of the paving stones sideways. Leave a 2-inch gap between bricks. As you build up the walls, these gaps will become the ventilation.
8. Set the next course of bricks in a staggered pattern over the first course. Have each brick of this course overlap two bricks beneath it. Leave a 2-inch gap between bricks. Continue the process, staggering each new course, until you reach roughly a 3-foot height.
Tags: 2-inch between, 2-inch between bricks, around stake, between bricks, course bricks, edge circle, entire circle
