If you’re looking to create a modern outdoor concrete fire pit, you’re in the right place. This project, presented by HomeMadeModern, can be completed over a single weekend. While not overly difficult, it does require time and effort. To ensure the durability of your concrete fire pit, it’s important to construct it carefully, considering how heat can affect the material. By lining the inside with fire brick and adding lava rock at the base, you can prevent the concrete from cracking or exploding when exposed to high temperatures. For detailed instructions, visit the website and follow Ben and Jessie on Instagram to see what’s next.
Ben takes you through the step-by-step process of building a concrete fire pit, starting with constructing the formwork using two by fours and two by sixes. By carefully setting the frame in place and pouring the concrete foundation, you lay the groundwork for a sturdy structure. The following steps involve laying bricks and pouring additional layers of concrete to create a durable and aesthetically pleasing outdoor feature. Remember to let the concrete cure properly and add the finishing touch of lava rock for a thermally resistant surface. With Ben’s guidance, you’ll be enjoying your modern fire pit in no time.
1. Planning and Preparation
Creating an outdoor concrete fire pit involves careful planning and preparation, starting with measurements and technical details. You need to form the concrete framework that will serve as the foundation for the fire pit.
Measurements and Technical Details
Before you begin the construction process, it’s essential to have accurate measurements and technical details. This will ensure that all components fit together properly and that your fire pit is structurally sound.
Forming the Concrete Framework
Constructing the concrete framework involves assembling the necessary materials and creating a sturdy structure to support the fire pit. This framework will provide the shape and foundation for the entire project.
2. Digging and Foundation
The next step in building an outdoor concrete fire pit is preparing the location, digging the pit, compacting and leveling the ground, and adding gravel for drainage.
Setting up the Location
Choose a suitable location for your fire pit and mark the perimeter where the pit will be constructed. This step is crucial in ensuring that your fire pit is situated in the desired spot.
Digging the Pit
Digging the pit is a labor-intensive task that requires precision and care. Make sure to dig to the appropriate depth to accommodate the fire pit structure.
Compacting and Leveling the Ground
After digging the pit, it’s important to compact and level the ground to create a stable base for the fire pit. This will prevent future shifting or settling of the structure.
Adding Gravel for Drainage
Adding gravel to the base of the pit helps with drainage and prevents water buildup. Proper drainage is essential for the longevity of your fire pit.
3. Setting up the Mold
Once the foundation is ready, it’s time to set up the mold for the fire pit, ensuring that it is secure and properly aligned.
Placing the Outer and Inner Rings
Position the outer and inner rings of the mold to create the structure of the fire pit. Aligning these rings correctly is crucial for the final appearance and functionality of the fire pit.
Checking Measurements and Leveling
Verify that the measurements are accurate and that the mold is level to ensure a symmetrical and stable fire pit.
Securing the Mold with Rebar
Using rebar to secure the mold in place adds stability and strength to the structure. This step is essential for the structural integrity of the fire pit.
4. Mix and Pour Concrete
With the mold in place, it’s time to mix and pour the concrete for the foundation of the fire pit.
Creating Concrete Foundation
Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer’s instructions and pour it into the mold to create the foundation of the fire pit.
Ensuring Proper Thickness and Compaction
Check the thickness of the concrete and compact it to ensure that it is evenly distributed and adequately reinforced.
Allowing Concrete to Cure
After pouring the concrete, allow it to cure for the recommended time before moving on to the next steps in the construction process.
5. Laying Fire Bricks
To build the wall structure of the fire pit, you will need to lay fire bricks using mortar.
Mixing Mortar for Bricks
Prepare mortar according to the instructions and mix it to the right consistency for laying the fire bricks.
Placing Mortar and Individual Bricks
Apply mortar to the bricks and place them one by one around the inner structure of the fire pit. This process creates the walls of the fire pit.
Building the Wall Structure
Continue laying bricks and adding mortar until the desired wall height is reached, ensuring that the structure is sturdy and secure.
6. Additional Concrete Pours
For added strength and durability, consider extending rebar for additional layers of concrete.
Extending Rebar for Layers
Add more rebar to connect the layers of concrete and provide additional reinforcement for the fire pit.
Mixing and Pouring Additional Concrete
Prepare and pour additional concrete layers to build up the structure of the fire pit, ensuring a solid and long-lasting finish.
Removing Excess Formwork and Bracing
Once the concrete has set, remove any excess formwork and bracing to reveal the final structure of the fire pit.
7. Finishing Techniques
To achieve a smooth and polished surface, finish the concrete by screeding, leveling, and curing.
Screeding and Leveling Concrete Surface
Use a screed to level the concrete surface and ensure a smooth finish before the curing process.
Using Float and Steel Trowel for Smoothing
After screeding, use a float and steel trowel to achieve a polished appearance and smooth texture on the concrete surface.
Curing Process and Moisture
Allow the concrete to cure properly by keeping it moist and protected from drying out too quickly. This process is crucial for the strength and durability of the fire pit.
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