4 Tips to Help You Build an Awesome Fire Pit Yourself

Because it doesn’t get as chilly in San Diego County as it does in other parts of the country, you can easily spend a few winter nights hanging out in your backyard if you have a fire pit. Installing one of these pits yourself is actually fairly simple, and the staff at Unique Flooring Oceanside has a few tips to help you build one you can enjoy for many years to come.

  1. Have a Plan in Place
    Double-check and make sure your neighborhood allows fire pits first and foremost. Determine what kind of fire pit you would like, as well as a design that best suits your tastes. Gather all the materials you need to complete the project before beginning, and you may want to enlist a friend to help as well.
  2. Keep it Safe
    Fire pits should be at least 20 feet from your home and your property line. Be sure the pit doesn’t sit under any low-hanging trees or other combustible materials, and it shouldn’t sit on wood or other flammable materials either. Monitor the weather to see how wind might affect your fire pit. This way, you can prevent smoke constantly blowing toward your home or your neighbors’ homes.
  3. Build a Foundation
    Start by clearing debris from the space you have chosen in the yard. The center of the fire pit should be at least 12 inches deep, with a 6-inch layer of gravel. It is also best to have a slight impression for the outside wall. Diameters are typically 3 or 4 feet. This Old House recommends installing a steel campfire ring to help protect the surrounding of the pit.
  4. Construct the Pit
    This part of the construction process is up to your personal preference. Some people like rocks, some like bricks. It is best to use a masonry glue or concrete to secure the wall for safety. You may also decide you want pavers surrounding the pit. Be sure to add adequate seating as well. After all, the best part of installing a fire pit is enjoying it with friends and family once you’ve completed the project.

If you’re getting ready to tackle a DIY flooring project once you’ve finished your fire pit, get in touch with Unique Flooring. We are a leading provider of Berber carpet, COREtec vinyl planks, and Elegance flooring Oceanside homeowners often install in their homes. Stop by our showroom to see these and many other styles of flooring, or give us a call at 760-945-0010 for a free quote on materials and installation services. We hope to hear from you soon.