DIY Patio Block Fire Pit: A 5-Step Guide

A backyard fire pit is great for entertaining, bringing light and warmth to an outdoor space no matter the temperature. Plus, it only takes a day to build and can be enjoyed later that same evening.

Difficulty level: Intermediate

Duration: 8 hours

Material

Wall block Paver base Construction adhesive Fire pit kit

Tools

Shovel Tamper Rubber mallet Level Caulking gun Work gloves

Pro Tips

Patio blocks come in a range of different sizes and styles. A general rule of thumb is to use eighteen blocks per course in building the fire pit, but that number may vary depending on the desired fire pit look and width.

Keep in mind that blocks with interlocking lips are not used for stacked block projects such as a fire pit but rather for retaining walls.

Prepare the soil for the backyard fire pit

Dig a Hole for the First Course

Start by digging a shallow, round hole with a 45” diameter and a 6” depth. This step is important because it allows the first course to be placed belowground, which will provide the fire pit with extra stability. Use a level to ensure that the hole is flat and even all around.

Compact the base for the backyard fire pit

Tamp and Level the Base

When the hole is ready, pour in the paver base up to a depth of 3”. Tamp it down thoroughly until it is properly compacted and check that the surface is even with a level. If there are any dips, continue adding handfuls of paver base and use the butt end of a mallet to smooth it out.

Place the first row of cinder blocks for the firepit

Lay the First Course

While laying the first course, make sure that each block is level before placing another. Once all the blocks are placed, fill in and level the gaps between them with the remaining paver base.

Add construction adhesive on the patio blocks

Lay the Remaining Courses

With each new course, rotate the pattern so that it staggers with the course below. Apply landscape adhesive between each course to keep everything stable and secure.

Pro Tip

Always check the level before building higher.

Finalize the patio block fire pit

Finish the Fire Pit

After levelling the fourth and final course, it is time to finish the project by laying the fire pit kit. Since the kit does not need to be glued or anchored to the blocks, your fire pit can be used right away!