Build Your Own Fire Pit

When you wish to make a fire pit in your background, there are several ways to accomplish this task. Below you will find one set of step-by-step instructions to approaching this fun and exciting do-it-yourself home improvement project.

1. Identify where you would like to make your fire pit and insert a wooden rod into the center of this location. To the rod, attach a 10 1/2 -inch string with a can of spray paint at the end. While holding the string tight, spray-paint a circle. Next, connect a 22 1/2-inch string to the same spray can and draw another circle. Using these guidelines, dig a trench that measures 10 inches deep and 12 inches wide.

2. Next, place 2 inches of gravel about the trench to create a lining. Tamp the gravel, making it firm to the touch. The gravel will then be covered with concrete that reaches ground level. Using a shovel can eliminate air pockets. Level this area with a piece of 2x4, followed by trowel smoothing. Allow the concrete to harden and then cover it with plastic. This should set for a couple of days with an additional week of open-air curing.

3. Once the concrete has cured, use water to create a mist and smooth out the mortar. Next, press a manhole block measuring 6 inches into the mortar, followed by another piece lying flush against the first. Scrap pieces of 2 x 4 can be used to keep the tops of the blocks in an even pattern. Leaving three equidistant 3/4-inch gaps creates air vents within your fire pit.

4. Continuing to build your own fire pit, you will dry-lay a second layer of 6-inch manhole blocks over the first. Mortar is not used during this step. The blocks should be positioned so that they are flush with one another. Internal edges of this second layer should line up with the bottom layer. A slight lip will begin to form on the outer edge.

5. To continue making your own fire pit, you should mist the blocks of both layers, adding surface-bonding cement to the outside of your creation. Use a wet trowel to smooth out the surface. The top edge of the cement should be clear, so that the wall will accept the cap. The air vents should also be avoided during this process.

6. The last steps to building your own fire pit include cutting fireproof brick capstones into wedges. This can be accomplished with the use of a circular saw. An abrasive masonry blade should be chosen. You will also need a chisel for this step. Make sure that you are wearing your safety goggles during this step!