DIY: Flagstone Fire Pit Ideas for Summer Nights

As summer evenings draw in, there’s nothing quite like the appeal of an open fire under the night sky to gather friends and family. A DIY flagstone fire pit adds warmth, ambiance, and a touch of rustic charm to your outdoor living space. But how do you start?

The Process

Decide where you want your fire pit to be. Keep safety in mind and place it at least 10 feet away from structures and overhanging trees. The area should be flat, clear of any tripping hazards, and away from dry grass or other flammable materials.

Plan your design. One of the beauties of flagstone is its natural, irregular shapes. Let your creativity flow. Perhaps you envision a circular pit for a classic look, or maybe a square design for a modern twist. Remember to plan for an inner layer of firebrick to shield the flagstone from extreme temperatures.

Once your location and design are ready, it’s time for some digging. Depending on your pit’s size, you’ll need to excavate the area to around 6-12 inches deep. This is then filled with a layer of gravel for drainage and a layer of sand to provide a level base for your stones.

Now comes the fun part – laying the flagstones. Before you start, ensure you have a good quality mortar on hand, as this material will help your flagstones adhere firmly to the firebricks. Start by laying your firebricks to form the inner wall of your fire pit, applying a layer of mortar to secure each brick. Then, apply mortar on the outer side of the firebricks where you’ll place your flagstones. Remember, it’s like a jigsaw puzzle with no wrong answers! Flagstones can be adjusted, tilted, and rearranged until you’re satisfied with your design.

Maintenance

Obviously, maintenance is a significant piece to the longevity of your fire pit. Regularly clear out ashes and unburned wood. This prevents buildup and helps to avoid any unwanted smoke when the pit is in use. Inspect the flagstones, firebricks, and the mortar annually for any cracks or damage and repair as necessary.

Safety

Ensure your fire is always attended and kept at a manageable size. Using a spark screen can prevent stray embers from escaping, and having a fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby is always a good idea. As tempting as it might be, never use flammable liquids to start or rekindle your fire. When the night is over, make sure your fire is completely extinguished before leaving it unattended.

At Interstate Concrete and Asphalt, we recognize and celebrate your ambition to build a more inviting outdoor space. To assist with this, we are committed to providing superior quality materials that will endure through time and usage. Whether you’re looking for the perfect flagstones to match your vision, sturdy firebricks to withstand high temperatures, or top-quality mortar for a strong and durable build, our team of experienced professionals is ready and eager to support you.

We are here to ensure your DIY project turns out as envisioned and becomes a source of pride and enjoyment for many summers to come. Don’t hesitate to connect with us; let’s bring your vision to life!