Modern Fire Pit in 15 Minutes
Who needs the hassle of building with bricks and cement when you can have a show stopping fire pit in 15 minutes flat?
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We had this slightly dilapidated area in our back yard which is supposed to be a formal, geometric Italian garden. Somehow it never quite got to the symmetrical stage (getting plants to grow the same size is an art) and the centre was just a jumbled mess. But it is just off our back porch and protected by an beautiful ivy-clad stone wall - the perfect setting for a fire pit.
I took away the stepping stones and centre rocks but you may have a spot already that doesn’t need any preparation.
I then went to a garden cente and bought a giant (80cm/ 31”) round stepping stone and 3 concrete balls. As you can see below, my balls have pieces of rebar stuck in them (an extra idiot-proofing device that is necessary around here) but most come without. Update: for a new tutorial on how to make orbs, see here [url=https://www.hometalk.com/diy/upcycle/eco-friendlier-concrete-orbs-44418556
I measured a triangle that complimented the stepping stone and drove the balls into the ground. This gives extra stability but considering the concrete’s weight,is hardly necessary. Then I simply placed the stepping stone on top.
Very important note: do not make fire directly on the concrete, it could crack from the heat. Instead I added a fire basket or a fire basket tray, which lifts the heat away from concrete. I must say I prefer the look of the tray but I suppose the basket is safer and more practical.
So easy, why I didn’t think of this before?!
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Comments
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Very cool! Gives me great ideas for my garden with that kind of base!
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Absolutely, I think a collection of pots or a sculpture will also look great on it.
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Not to be a downer, but open fire without the ability fire-screen to prevent embers from flying off may get you in trouble with your fire department.
We once filled our fire pit with a good fire, about a foot above the firebowl.
some Karen called the police. They had seen the fire leap up a bit when I burned some leaves and grass on it; they basically told the police we had a huge bonfire! nope…and it was contained, with the fire-screen and on the sides, as it quickly burned down the dry material. It wasn’t going anywhere, to bother anyone. I even had my fire extinguisher nearby in the garage if it had.
Just know your responsibilities and be prepared to demonstrate you are being safe.
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
Was the garden center a national chain by chance? I’ve been trying to find round stepping stone and have been striking out.
Help!!!
I’m loving this project!!!! The links at end of project send me to Amazon rather than the garden center you purchased the steppingstone & those magical cement balls!!!
can you share where you actually purchased? I’m able to drive to that store!!!!
thanks....
How much do the balls and large circular cost?