This post will teach you how to build a fire pit patio with pavers. This is the perfect way to enjoy your outdoor space during the summer months, or year-round if you live in an area that has mild winters. We’ll show you how to plan out your project, select materials for this DIY home improvement project, and then construct it yourself!
Building a Fire Pit Patio with pavers is not as hard as it sounds. It can be done by anyone who has the time and will to do it. It also doesn’t require a lot of tools or materials to get started, so you won’t have any trouble finding what you need for your project. In this blog post we will show you how to build one from start-to-finish!
What is a Fire Pit Patio?
A Fire Pit is an outdoor fire pit used for cooking food or heating. It can be built in any shape and size, however the most common shapes are round, square or rectangular. The heat source comes from wood logs that are burnt to produce flames which provide warmth as well as a source of light to see what you’re doing!
Fire Pit Ingredients:
- Fire pit ring and burner (made of metal) that holds the wood logs. The longer the better as it will produce more heat. This is usually placed in center, but can be moved to accommodate desired location.
- Natural Gas or Propane Tank for those who need a controlled flame with less mess (requires gas line installation). These units come preassembled and includes valves and burners. They also include an ignition switch to turn on/off easily however they do not provide enough warmth during colder months compared to firewood burning models which are more expensive up front; but you get what you pay for!
Why choose pavers for your Fire Pit Patio?
- They are extremely durable and will withstand the elements.
- Lighter than concrete or stone, making them easy to handle and transport.
- Paver bricks can be cut with a wet saw to fit around obstacles.
- They are extremely versatile, so you won’t need to worry about matching your bricks or stepping stones.
How to find the Right Spot for your Fire Pit Patio?
In order to choose the right spot for your fire pit patio, there are a few things you need to consider. First and foremost is obviously safety and convenience! These two factors will help determine where exactly your fire pit should go on your concrete patio. So before we get into that, let’s talk about what makes up a great place for an outdoor living space:
- A flat area on top of level ground.
No holes or dips—like depressions in the earth or rocks underfoot—should be present when picking out spots for patios. If anything feels unstable, move onto another location until you find one with sturdy footing all around it.
- An open space that allows room for furniture.
You want your fire pit to have enough breathing room, so you’ll need to leave ample square footage behind it when measuring out the area where you plan on placing this element of landscaping in your concrete patio design. This should be at least one foot away from walls, shrubs and other garden features; if not more. Depending on how large an outdoor fireplace is (some can accommodate multiple seats or even fit inside a hole), make sure there’s plenty of free real estate around all sides!
How to build the base of your Fire Pit Patio?
The first step in building a paver patio is determining how much space you have for it. It’s also important that you take into consideration where any water drains or other objects are located before starting construction. You’ll want to choose pavers that will allow for easy installation and customization if needed, since cutting them once they’re set could damage their structural integrity.
Concrete pavers tend to fit together better than natural stone because they lock tightly when compressed by heavy equipment (and people.) They also don’t break easily like stones might, which means fewer waste materials! Concrete pavers also tend to be easier to set than stones, so you’ll spend less time on the project.
How do I install my Fire Pit Patio?
Once your space is clear and ready for construction, it’s best not to rush into things by immediately buying or laying down a lot of bricks. You should start with two screeds: one at least half a foot deep with gravel in it and another flat one that will follow after the first layer has dried thoroughly.
When setting both screeds together, place wood planks across them every ten feet or so to prevent any chance of sinking from weight equipment being used during installation! If you’re using concrete pavers instead of natural stone, they can go directly on the screed. If you have natural stones, lay down a bed of sand first so that they can be placed directly on it without any risk of sinking into an uneven surface.
How do I set up my Fire Pit?
Once your bricks are in place and firmly pressed together with no gaps between them, use landscaping fabric to cover the patio’s entire area for protection from weather or insects. Then pour gravel overtop of this layer until about two inches deep is reached; this gravel will act as part drainage system, preventing moisture buildup beneath your pavers while allowing good air flow through all parts of your project. Finally, top everything off with soil suitable for whatever plants you plan to grow there! It might also be helpful to lay down a weed barrier between your pavers and the soil before adding plants.
What materials are needed for building a Fire Pit Patio with Pavers?
To build a Fire Pit Patio with pavers, you will need gravel (for drainage), sand (to make the base level and even), plastic edging to contain the stones, fire bricks or stone for lining where needed. You may also use paving stones as your paver option. For this project we used 110 pieces of slate tiles that were 15″x15″. We had some left over from another project so it was very inexpensive! If you want an even bigger patio than our 14′ x 11′, I would recommend getting 12″ tall tiles instead of 15″.
- Add a patio heater and you will be able to enjoy the backyard even more!
- You may also need: water, wheelbarrow or garden cart for moving stone.
Where should I build my Fire Pit Patio with pavers?
The best place for your new patio is in a flat, empty space that can accommodate the size you will need. Next to a fire source such as a BBQ grill or wood stove would be ideal so you don’t have to carry logs from far away and avoid getting smoke in your eyes when tending the pit. If it’s too cold outside, consider making an indoor Fire Pit using tiles on your living room floor! The possibilities are endless when it comes down to design options.
How do I start laying out my stones?
First lay out all of your stone pieces by type (fire brick/stone vs slate tile) and then mix them together into piles of similar sizes.
You will then want to lay them out on top of your sand base so they are evenly spaced and look like you would actually see them if it was finished! Don’t worry about the spacing at this point – just make sure everything looks great before moving onto placing stone on your edging.
What is the next step in building my Fire Pit Patio with pavers?
Place plastic edging along one side (or all sides) depending how big you’re making your design. Remember that every time you go around another piece, you will need four more stones than what goes into that row of five pieces because of mortar gaps between each new row which equals a total length of 21 for each line to be laid.
You will then want to fill in the spaces between each stone with sand and use a squeegee (a rubber blade on an extendable handle) for small gaps or your hands for filling larger ones. If you don’t have either of these tools, make sure that any space is filled completely to ensure even weight distribution across your stones and prevent sinking down at all costs! The last thing you would want after all this work is having half-full gaps and uneven tiles/stones which could result in water damage over time as well as unsightly bumps during normal daily activities such as walking around them or sitting by the fire pit patio.
- If there are low spots where water might pool, it’s best not to put pavers there as they will not drain and can cause mold, which is a health hazard.
- Finally, spread sand over the entire area again to ensure all spaces are filled completely with no gaps or low spots! You don’t want any water pooling at all so it doesn’t soak into your stones causing damage long-term.
- Wait for everything to dry before you start laying down fire bricks and stone and enjoy your new patio!!
How much does building my own Fire Pit Patio with pavers cost?
If done right, this project should only take about $300-$400 depending how big of an area you decide on making. That’s including edging around the outer edge (which we did because I wanted to make sure it was secure), landscaping fabric, sand, pavers/tiles and the gas line to hook up a patio heater.
It can also be done in stages if you’re on a budget! Just build out your edging first then wait for that area to dry completely before moving onto putting down fire bricks or stone.
What are some tips I should know when building my own Fire Pit Patio with pavers?
First of all: don’t rush anything!! You want this project to last as long as possible so allow yourself plenty of time (and help!) to get everything laid out perfectly and ensure there is no risk water damage over time which could cause mold growth and damages other than aesthetic issues.
Building your own Fire Pit Patio with pavers can be a fun and rewarding project if done right! If you want to make it even more unique, consider using slate tiles instead of fire brick or stone – the possibilities are endless!!
What tools do I need for laying out my stones?
You will need an edging tool (known as “border wire” in our parts) that is used on farms because it’s easy to bend into shapes. It’s not expensive at all but very effective which means less work for you! You also might find some people willing to give theirs away so ask around posting signs where they normally sell their farm equipment…you never know who may have one sitting unused behind their barn still!
You will also need landscaping fabric which you lay down where your pavers are going to be so grass doesn’t grow up between them. It’s pretty cheap but can take a long time for delivery if you order online – we ordered ours from the local hardware store and they were able to get it here in about a week since it is heavy stuff!
How to build a Fire Pit with pavers?
There are many benefits to building a Fire Pit with pavers. For example, it is less expensive than using wood or cinder blocks (which require more work and supplies). Not only that, but you can also design the concrete patio around your specific needs for seating and layout…
- Step One: Preparing the Patio Space and Installing Paver Edging
First, you will need to use a shovel and mattock to clear away any dirt or sod from the patio site.
This should leave you with just compacted soil that needs grading in order for it to be flat enough for your pavers.
- Step Two: Installing Paver Edging
The paver edging can run along the perimeter of the fire pit so that there is a border around it when it’s finished. It also serves as an anchor point for some types of outside lights or decorations like candles or planters. You may want to install this before putting down sand since they tend not sit flush against each other if one has been installed already (like when you are using wood edging).
With the patio prepared and edged, it’s time to install your paver base.
Tips and tricks on how to maintain your new Paver Project
Now that you have created a gorgeous new patio, there are several tips and tricks to maintaining your project. You can always rely on us at Paverland for help with any of these tips!
Tips & Tricks:
- Water your pavers regularly to prevent dryness and cracking. This can be done by using a sprayer or sprinkler on low pressure for about 15 minutes every day during the summer months, more in winter depending on how cold it is outside.
- Keep an eye out for weeds that will grow between the cracks of your paver patio. Not only are these unsightly but they also take away nutrients from anything growing next to them so keep pulling! You could consider weed control options if this becomes too much work.
Benefits of installing an Outdoor Fireplace in the Backyard
Outdoor fireplaces provide a safe and controlled environment for outdoor gatherings. They create a focal point in the backyard, while also providing warmth and ambiance at night or on chilly evenings. Many people enjoy spending time outdoors with friends, family, colleagues or clients during special events such as birthdays, corporate parties etc., so an outdoor fireplace makes it easy to have these social get togethers without being restricted indoors due to bad weather conditions.
Most outdoor fireplaces can be used as a focal point for bonfire parties. They provide the right amount of light and heat to keep guests warm during summer nights or chilly winter evenings. Depending on your landscaping, you could even add seating areas around the fireplace so that everyone has a good view and is comfortable enough to socialize with each other while enjoying their food and beverages. A fully functional outdoor fireplace provides all necessary amenities needed by individuals at such events without having to relocate inside an indoor space due to weather conditions or darkness outside.
Benefits: Outdoor fireplaces provide a safe and controlled environment for outdoor gatherings; they create a focal point in the backyard, while also providing warmth and ambiance at night or on chilly evenings.
Most outdoor fireplaces can be used as a focal point for bonfire parties; they provide the right amount of light and heat to keep guests warm during summer nights or chilly winter evenings.
Depending on your landscaping, you could even add seating areas around the fireplace so that everyone has a good view and is comfortable enough to socialize with each other while enjoying their food and beverages. A fully functional outdoor fireplace provides all necessary amenities needed by individuals at such events without having to relocate inside an indoor space due to weather conditions or darkness outside.
The importance of Building Codes when it comes to Outdoor Living Spaces
- A professional contractor should be able to help you with the Building Code regulations that are in place for your area.
- There are also many different options for fire pit materials.
- The most common option is to use natural stone like flagstone or bluestone, but you can also find brick pavers made specifically for this purpose in your local building supply store.
Environmental Protection
The fire pit patio is made out of gas, so it does not emit carbon dioxide or other harmful emissions. It also has a natural flame and will make the atmosphere appear more romantic.
Safety Tips
- Always be careful with fire. Put the fire pit on a flat surface and read all safety instructions before you begin to build your Fire Pit Patio!
- Place protective mesh under the paver patio, as well as rocks around it for extra protection from heat. If you are concerned about potential grass fires, place weed control fabric underneath the pavers then cover that area with rock or wood mulch after installation is complete.
- Keep in mind that Water and Electricity do not mix well together. If you are using electric lights, it is important to keep them away from the water feature or any other moisture source for safety purposes.
- If you are using flagstones for this project, make sure to use stones that have been pressure treated. It is also important to place the pavers with an alternating pattern so there aren’t any gaps between them allowing moisture or insects easy access under the patio.
- Use a level to ensure your patio is even and sturdy. If you notice any gaps between the stones, don’t worry about filling them in yet with sand or gravel until after all of the stone has been laid out on top of its foundation (mesh). Once it’s complete, fill the cracks with either sand or pea gravel for optimal results.
- When it comes to the fireplace, do not use dry wood as this can cause a fire hazard. Always start with small logs first until you are able to build up enough heat for larger pieces of wood that have been seasoned or split already. Once your fire is established, allow at least two hours before adding more wood or stoking any embers/flames in order to avoid an accidental blaze.
- Be sure to allow the pavers and stones some time (at least 24 hours) to dry before you add any decorative touches like plants, flowers or stone borders. It is also best not to use fertilizer of weed control products on your Fire Pit Patio for at least two weeks after installation in order to avoid staining the stones until they have completely weathered and settled into their new environment.
FAQs
When is the best time to build a patio?
The ideal time for construction will be in spring or fall, when there are no extreme heat or temperatures. If you’re building during summertime, either take frequent breaks due to high temperature and humidity levels (which can affect your work) or simply wait until winter to do it. Just keep an eye out on weather forecasts for heavy rainfalls that could cause flooding around the area where you’ll be working at home!
Can I install patio pavers by myself?
Installing the pavers is a task that you can do yourself. However, if you are not 100% confident about your skills, maybe it’s best to leave things up to someone who has more experience in doing that sort of work for an outside area. You could always ask friends or family members if they would be willing to lend their hands! Another option is hiring professional help—the cost may be higher but at least you won’t have any doubts on whether your patio will turn out as expected.
Where should my paver fire pit go?
It all depends where exactly there's room enough for placing it and how big you want your finished project to be.
What are the best kinds of pavers to use for a fire pit patio?
You can get creative here! The standard types include concrete, clay or stone tiles but there are many more choices these days when it comes to materials and how they look like. If you want to give your project an entirely different appearance, feel free to experiment with options such as wood and metal ones in addition to building blocks made out of glass.
How do I start putting my Fire Pit Patio together?
First things first: level off the ground where you’ll be working at home so that everything will stay nice and straight once construction begins (you don't want crooked paver bricks now, would you?). Then add sand in the entire area where you’ll be working so that it will help with drainage (at least around one inch deep). Once done, go ahead and lay out your supporting beams.
How do I build a Fire Pit Patio?
Once ready to proceed with construction work, place your support beams in position on top of the sand level ground; leave about two inches all around them when measuring. Next up is laying down paver bricks or tiles along the perimeter by following their natural pattern (use spacers for this task if needed) until they reach both ends of each beam. Then fill in any gaps between pavers by using more loose stones; make sure these are smaller than half-inch pieces as anything larger can cause drainage issues. Once done, begin adding sand all around the patio area until it’s completely covered.
What are some tips for building my Fire Pit Patio?
As with any other construction project you might undertake at home, make sure to always work on a dry day and wear proper safety gear (e.g., gloves) during each step of assembly process! You will also find that having an eye mask or goggles handy is helpful when dealing with dust particles in the air as well as using protective glasses since your eyes can be especially vulnerable while doing such laborious tasks outdoors under direct sunlight rays.
Conclusion
It is pretty easy to build a Fire Pit Patio with pavers. You can find the instructions and tutorials on how to do this online for free. There are also several plans that you can buy like those from Backyard Creations or DIY Network Plans which have step-by-step guides as well as diagrams, illustrations of materials used and tools required, measurements of materials needed etc. These two companies publish their collection annually so they always have new designs available each year! Of course if you ever need help with building your fire pit patio just be sure to reach out – we would love to hear from you!