You’re in for a treat when you follow along with San Chaik’s DIY project on creating a modern sunken in-ground fire pit. With detailed steps and clear instructions, you’ll be able to transform your outdoor space into a cozy gathering spot. From leveling the ground to laying down the final brick, you’ll feel accomplished as you complete each step with precision and care.
As you watch the project come together, you’ll see the effort and dedication that goes into creating a customized fire pit. With a touch of creativity and a lot of hard work, you’ll be able to enjoy evenings by the fire in your own backyard oasis. Let San Chaik guide you through the process of turning your outdoor space into a modern relaxation haven.
Planning and Preparing
When embarking on the journey to build a modern, sunken in-ground fire pit, the first step is to map out the perimeter of the fire pit. This will serve as the blueprint for the entire project, ensuring that the final result meets your expectations. If your yard is not already flat, it is essential to level out the area before proceeding further. This may involve a significant amount of digging, but it is a crucial step to ensure the stability and aesthetic appeal of the fire pit.
After leveling the area, the next phase involves digging up the seating area. This step is necessary to create a space for comfortable seating around the fire pit. Additionally, digging up the actual pit of the fire pit is crucial to establish the foundation for the fire source. The dimensions of the pit should be determined based on your preferences and the size of the overall project.
Setting the perimeter of the fire pit with cinder blocks is the final step in the preparation phase. By creating a solid boundary, you lay the groundwork for the base of the fire pit and ensure its structural integrity. Setting up a level string line and double-checking for accuracy are essential to guarantee that the cinder blocks are correctly positioned.
Building the Base
To create a stable and durable base for the fire pit, the next step is to pour sand and gravel into the designated area. The sand provides a level surface for the bricks, while the gravel adds stability and support. Ensuring that the sand and gravel are evenly spread and properly tamped down is crucial to the success of this phase.
To add a source of oxygen to the fire pit, a dryer tube extension should be installed. This allows fresh oxygen to reach the bottom of the fire pit, facilitating the burning process. Laying out the base with bricks and using concrete adhesive to secure them in place is the next step. Staggering each row for structure and stability is essential for the longevity of the fire pit.
Ensuring that each row of bricks is level is critical to the overall stability and aesthetic appeal of the fire pit. Taking the time to double-check the alignment and adjust as needed will result in a well-built base that will last for years to come.
Finishing the Base
After the base of the fire pit is constructed, the next step is to add lava rock to the bottom. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides insulation and support for the fire pit. Installing concrete pavers for the seating area is the next phase, offering a comfortable and stylish surface for seating.
To complete the flooring of the fire pit, laying down a weed barrier and white marble pebble is essential. This not only adds a decorative touch but also ensures that the surrounding area remains tidy and weed-free. Careful attention should be paid to leveling the surfaces and ensuring a smooth finish for the flooring.
Adding Backrests
If you choose to enhance the comfort and design of your fire pit, adding backrests can be a great option. Creating a perimeter for the backrest with cinder blocks is the first step in this process. By setting the blocks at an appropriate height, you can create a comfortable seating area that is level with the ground.
Placing caps on top of the cinder blocks for backrests adds a finished look to the seating area. The overhang of the caps provides a stylish design element while also serving a practical purpose. Gluing the caps together ensures that they remain secure and stable for long-term use.
Final Touches
Before considering the fire pit project complete, it is essential to backfill and tamp the area down. This step ensures that the surrounding ground is firm and level, providing a solid foundation for the fire pit. Laying cap covers and adjusting gaps for a uniform look is the next phase, allowing for a cohesive and visually appealing finish.
Using a circular saw and framing triangle, cutting out pieces for gaps can be done with precision and accuracy. This step ensures that the gaps are neatly filled and contribute to the overall aesthetic of the fire pit. Checking the level while the glue is drying and finishing the gaps with perfectly cut pieces are crucial to the final touches of the project.
Completion
Upon completing all the necessary steps and ensuring that every detail is meticulously attended to, it is time to congratulate yourself on completing the project. Taking the time and effort to build a modern, sunken in-ground fire pit is a rewarding endeavor that will provide enjoyment and relaxation for years to come. With a beautiful fire pit in your backyard, you can look forward to cozy nights spent gathered around the warmth and glow of the flames.
