The best DIY brick fire pit ideas balance style, safety, and simplicity. You can build a stunning backyard centerpiece without advanced skills or a large budget. Key steps include choosing a safe location, selecting a design (like a classic circle or modern square), and gathering basic materials like bricks, a metal ring, and gravel. Let’s explore designs and a step-by-step guide.
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting glow of a fire pit to transform your backyard into a cozy retreat. But between complex plans, safety concerns, and worrying about cost, the dream can feel out of reach. You’re not alone in wanting a beautiful, functional space without it becoming a frustrating, expensive project.
Good news: you’ve found the right guide. We’ve simplified the entire process, from the first spark of inspiration to the final brick. We’ll walk you through over many design ideas to match your style and then provide a clear, step-by-step plan to build your own fire pit with confidence. Let’s get started.
Why Choose a Brick Fire Pit?
A brick fire pit is a classic choice for good reason. Bricks are durable and can handle high heat very well. They also look great in any backyard. You get a natural, timeless style that blends with many gardens.
Building one yourself is also very rewarding. You can create a perfect spot for making memories. It becomes a centerpiece for family gatherings and relaxing nights. Plus, a well-built fire pit can even increase your property’s appeal.
You don’t need to be a professional. With basic tools and our guide, you can do it. This project is much more affordable than hiring someone. You save money and gain a great new skill.
Inspiring DIY Brick Fire Pit Ideas & Designs
Let’s look at some popular styles. These ideas will help you find the perfect look for your space.
Classic Circular Fire Pit Designs
The circle is the most traditional shape. It is easy to build and encourages conversation. People can sit around it and talk easily. You can use standard bricks in a simple ring. Or, you can use curved retaining wall blocks for a very smooth finish. A circle is a great first project.
Modern Square and Rectangle Fire Pit Styles
For a more contemporary look, try a square or rectangle. This shape fits well with modern patio furniture and decks. It looks very clean and structured. You can build it flush with a deck or set it in a gravel area. This style often uses clean, uniform bricks for a sharp appearance.
Raised Brick Fire Pit Ideas with Seating Wall
A raised fire pit sits higher off the ground. This means you don’t have to bend down as much to tend the fire. Often, these designs include a short surrounding wall. This wall acts as built-in seating for your guests. It’s a two-in-one feature that maximizes your space and comfort.
In-Ground vs. Above-Ground Fire Pit Designs
Your choice here changes the look and feel of your space.
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In-Ground: Built into a hole in the ground. It feels more natural and blends into the landscape. It can be safer for yards with children or pets as the fire is lower.
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Above-Ground: Built on top of the soil or patio. This is easier to build because you dig less. It makes the fire pit more of a visible feature and statement piece.
How to Build a DIY Brick Fire Pit: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to build? Let’s break down the process into simple steps. Always check your local fire codes before you start digging. Safety first.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Gathering everything first makes the job smooth.
Tools:
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Shovel
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Level
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Rubber Mallet
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Tape Measure
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Mason’s Trowel (if using mortar)
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Safety Glasses
Materials:
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Fire Bricks or Standard Pavers
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Gravel (for base drainage)
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Sand (for leveling)
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Concrete Wall Blocks (optional for base)
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Metal Fire Ring (highly recommended)
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Mortar (optional)
Step 1: Choosing the Perfect and Safe Location
Pick a spot far away from your house, sheds, and low trees. A good rule is at least 10 feet from any structure. Make sure the area is flat and stable. Avoid placing it under covered patios or gazebos. The ground should be non-flammable, like dirt or stone.
Step 2: Laying the Foundation and Base
This step is crucial for a level and long-lasting fire pit.
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Mark the outline of your pit with spray paint or a hose.
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Dig a hole about 6-8 inches deep inside your outline.
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Fill the hole with a few inches of gravel. Tamp it down firmly. This creates a stable, draining base.
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Add a thin layer of sand on top of the gravel. Use your level to make the sand layer perfectly flat.
Step 3: The Build: Mortar vs. No-Mortar Methods
You have two main ways to build the walls.
The Mortar Method: This is the strongest method. You use mortar like glue between each brick. It creates a permanent, solid structure. It is best for taller designs or if you want a very professional finish.
The No-Mortar (Dry-Stack) Method: This is much easier for beginners. You simply stack the bricks on your base. The weight of the bricks holds the wall together. You can use construction adhesive between layers for a little extra stability. This method is also easier to change or take apart later.
Step 4: Adding the Inner Liner and Finishing Touches
Once your walls are a few courses high, place the metal fire ring inside. This liner protects your bricks from extreme heat, making your pit last much longer. Then, continue building your walls up to your desired height. The final height is usually between 12 and 18 inches.
Brick Fire Pit Safety and Maintenance Tips
Your fire pit is for fun. Keep it that way with simple safety steps. Good habits protect your family, your home, and your fire pit.
Choosing a Safe Location: Clearance and Surface
Always pick a spot with plenty of space. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends a safe location at least 10 feet from your house and trees. The ground under and around the pit must be non-flammable. Use materials like dirt, stone, or gravel. Never put your fire pit on a wooden deck or dry grass.
What to Burn (and What Not to Burn)
Only burn dry, seasoned firewood. It burns cleaner and makes less smoke. You can also use natural gas or propane if you have a special burner kit.
Never burn these items:
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Trash or plastic (they release toxic chemicals)
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Pressure-treated wood (it contains arsenic)
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Green or wet wood (it causes too much smoke)
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Lighter fluid or gasoline (they can cause dangerous flare-ups)
Always keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby just in case.
Cleaning Your Fire Pit and Using a Protective Cover
Let the ashes cool completely for a few days. Then, wear a dust mask and scoop them into a metal can. You can dispose of cold ashes in your trash. Do not put them in a compost pile. Scrub the inside of the pit with a stiff wire brush to remove soot.
A protective cover is a great investment. It keeps rain and leaves out of your fire pit. This prevents rust on your metal ring and stops water from damaging the bricks. It helps your creation last for many years.
DIY Brick Fire Pit Cost and Material Guide
What will this project cost? The price changes based on your design and materials. A simple no-mortar pit is very affordable. A large, mortared pit with a seating wall will cost more.
Here is a basic cost breakdown for a medium-sized pit:
| Material | Purpose | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Bricks or Pavers | Building the walls | $50 – $150 |
| Gravel & Sand | Creating a stable base | $20 – $40 |
| Metal Fire Ring | Protecting bricks from heat | $30 – $80 |
| Mortar (optional) | Binding bricks together | $20 – $40 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $120 – $310 |
This is much less than buying a pre-made fire pit or hiring a pro. You control the budget by choosing your materials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How deep should a brick fire pit be?
Your fire pit does not need to be very deep. The hole you dig for the base should be 6 to 8 inches deep. This space is for your gravel and sand base, not the fire. The fire itself will happen above the ground. The gravel base is key for drainage and stability.
Do you need to use mortar for a brick fire pit?
No, you do not have to. A no-mortar or “dry-stack” method is a popular and easy choice for beginners. The bricks hold themselves together. For a more permanent and solid structure, especially for taller walls, mortar is the best choice. It makes the pit very strong.
What is the best type of brick to use for a fire pit?
You must use the right brick. Standard red clay bricks are usually okay. But for the inner layer where the fire is hottest, fire brick (also called refractory brick) is the best choice. It is designed to handle extreme heat without cracking. Avoid soft bricks like cinder blocks. They can trap moisture and explode when heated.
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