Hey there, Handy Homeowners!
Nothing says “backyard oasis” like a crackling firepit, a couple of lawn chairs, and a cold drink in hand. It’s the ultimate summer evening vibe—without the smell of citronella candles or the hum of a bug zapper ruining the moment.
The best part? You can build your own stone firepit in a weekend, even if your toolbelt is a little dusty. Let’s break it down, step-by-step.
Maintenance Minute
Where Small Fixes Make a Big Difference!
This Weeks 5 Minute Focus
Clear leaves and debris from window wells
Keeps pests and moisture out of your basement.Check outdoor faucets for drips or leaks
One quick twist of the hose bib could save you from a flooded wall later.Tighten loose deck screws or railings
A screwdriver and a few turns = fewer stubbed toes and wobbly rails.Test motion sensor lights
Walk past them at dusk. If they don’t flick on, it’s time to replace the bulb or adjust the sensor.
Pro tip: Lay a small tarp or contractor bag next to the window well before you clean it out.
It keeps dirt, leaves, and bugs off your lawn or patio—and makes cleanup as easy as folding it up and tossing it in the bin. Work smarter, not messier.
Why Build a Stone Firepit?
A backyard firepit isn’t just for s’mores (although we fully support your marshmallow habits). It’s:
A natural gathering spot for family and friends
A value booster for your home’s outdoor appeal
Way cheaper than a fancy patio heater
Actually easy to build—no contractor required
And let’s be honest, nothing makes you feel more like a backyard boss than building a firepit from scratch.
Backyard Firepit
Tools & Materials You’ll Need
Basic tools:
Shovel
Rubber mallet
Level
Garden hose or string (for marking your circle)
Work gloves (unless you like bleeding knuckles)
Materials:
Retaining wall blocks or fire-rated stones
Paver base gravel
Sand
Fire ring (optional but recommended for safety and longevity)
Pro Tip: Look for sales at big box stores—those concrete blocks often go on clearance late summer.
Step-by-Step Firepit Construction
Pick Your Spot
Choose a level area at least 15-20 feet away from your home, trees, fences, or anything else flammable (including that dry pile of yard waste you “meant to compost”).Mark the Circle
Use a garden hose or tie a string to a center stake and trace a circle. Most DIY firepits are 36–44 inches in diameter.Dig Down
Dig out your circle about 6 inches deep. This helps hold your pit in place and keeps flames low and manageable.Add Gravel Base
Pour in 3 inches of paver gravel, level it, and compact it with a tamper. This improves drainage and keeps your firepit from shifting over time.Lay the First Layer
Place your stones in a circle, checking level as you go. This layer sets the tone—get it right.Add Sand and Stack More Layers
After leveling your first ring, pour in a couple inches of sand inside the pit. Then start stacking your second and third layers, staggering the joints like bricks.Add a Fire Ring (Optional)
A steel fire ring keeps flames from licking the stone walls and extends the life of your pit. Drop it in before your final row of blocks.Sit Back and Admire Your Work
You just created a stone circle of happiness and warmth. Congratulations, you’re now the neighborhood firekeeper.
🚨Fire Safety Rules (Because We’re Responsible Adults Here)
Never leave a fire unattended
Always have a hose or bucket of water nearby
Skip lighter fluid—use kindling and patience
Check local bylaws (some cities require permits)
Don’t burn pressure-treated wood or old pallets—they release nasty chemicals
Pro Tip of the Week
Toss a few dried orange peels into the fire for a natural mosquito repellent and a citrusy scent. Just don’t mistake them for snacks.
Q&A- Do I need to use mortar or glue?
Nope. The weight of the blocks keeps everything in place. But you can use construction adhesive on the top row if you’re worried about wobbly rocks.
How did you like today's newsletter?
Questions? Comments? Drop us a line at [email protected]
This email may contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase using these links.