DIY: How to Build an Outdoor Firepit Using Landscaping Products

An outdoor firepit isn’t just a functional feature. It’s a gathering place that brings warmth and use to your backyard all year long. Whether you’re planning cozy winter nights in Utah or just want a beautiful focal point for your yard, a firepit is an easy DIY project using the right materials. Kilgore Landscape Center offers a range of high-quality products, including decorative landscaping rock, landscaping sand, and other landscaping materials that will make this process simple. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you create your dream firepit.

Step 1: Choosing the Perfect Spot

Start by finding a safe, flat area away from flammable materials. The University of Utah recommends that “​​the pit is in an area away from dry brush of hanging branches.” Look for a level spot that is at least 10 feet from structures to reduce fire risks. A level foundation not only provides stability but also helps with even heat distribution, preventing tilting or uneven wear over time. If the ground is uneven, consider using a mix of gravel and sand to fill low spots and create a smooth, firm surface.

Preparation Tips:

• Clear any debris, grass, or vegetation from the selected spot using a shovel and rake.
• If the area isn’t level, use a gravel and sand mixture to create a flat, even surface.

Recommended Products:

• 1" Minus Unwashed Rock: Ideal for leveling the ground and providing a stable foundation.
• Bedding Sand: Perfect for smoothing out uneven surfaces beneath pavers. Check out our blend sand calculator to determine the quantity you need.

Step 2: Laying the Base

With the area prepared, it’s time to build a strong foundation. Use durable pavers to form the flat base layer, choosing materials that are heat-resistant and weatherproof. Arrange the stones in your preferred shape, like a circle or square, and make sure that each piece fits tightly together without gaps. We recommend you add polymeric landscaping sand between the blocks to fill the gaps and create a stronger foundation. A snug fit prevents shifting over time and provides a uniform surface for stacking the firepit blocks.

Design Tip:

Add a layer of decorative landscaping rock around the base for an extra touch. This not only looks great but also helps define the firepit’s borders.

Recommended Products:

• Sunroc 3pc Cobble Pillow Top Granite Pavers: These pavers are strong, heat-resistant, and easy to work with.
• Polymeric Sand Granite (50 lb bags): Specifically designed for securing pavers.
• Mexican Beach Cobble: A popular option for decorative borders or walkways around the firepit.

Step 3: Building the Firepit Walls

The firepit walls are constructed using firepit blocks, which are specifically designed to withstand high heat without cracking or degrading. Kilgore Landscape Center offers pre-cut firepit blocks that fit seamlessly together, ensuring a snug, secure fit. Begin by laying the first layer of blocks, checking that each one is level to create a solid base. As you stack additional layers, stagger the joints like a brick pattern for added strength and stability.

How to Build:

• Place the first layer of blocks on the base, making sure each one is level.
• Stack additional layers, staggering the joints for added strength and stability.

Recommended Products:

• Granite Firepit Blocks: These blocks are built to withstand high temperatures while maintaining their structural integrity.

Step 4: Securing with Polymeric Sand

To ensure long-lasting durability, use polymeric sand to secure the firepit blocks. This special sand, designed for heavy-duty applications, hardens when exposed to water, creating a bond that resists shifting, weathering, and freeze-thaw cycles. Spread the sand evenly over the firepit blocks, carefully brushing it into every joint and crevice to fill gaps completely. Once the joints are packed, lightly mist with water to activate the binding process, ensuring a strong seal. The University of Florida confirms that “polymeric sand does a good job of keeping pavers in place and stopping weeds.”

Application Steps:

• Sweep polymeric landscaping sand into the joints between the blocks.
• Lightly mist the sand with water to activate the hardening process.

Recommended Product:

• Polymeric Sand Granite (50 lb bags): This landscaping sand is specifically formulated for securing firepit blocks and pavers. 

Step 5: Adding Firepit Glass

One of the last steps is adding your firepit glass, which is a clean-burning and low-maintenance option for modern homeowners. It’s available in a variety of colors to complement your backyard decor. Unlike traditional materials, firepit glass reflects the flames, creating a vibrant glow and enhancing the ambiance. It resists high temperatures for long-lasting performance and doesn’t produce ash or smoke, keeping your outdoor space cleaner.

Finishing Touch:

• Spread the firepit glass evenly inside the firepit.
• Choose a color that complements the surrounding landscaping.

Recommended Products:

• Kilgore’s Firepit Glass: Available in multiple colors and sizes. See our online store for all our options.

Enhancing the Surrounding Area

A firepit is a centerpiece, but the surrounding area can make or break the overall design. Use decorative landscaping rock to create borders or pathways around the firepit, giving the space a cohesive and stylish look.

• Add landscaping sand beneath the decorative rocks to prevent weed growth and stabilize the surface.
• Consider using materials like Mexican Beach Cobble or larger stones to frame the firepit area.

Recommended Products:

• Bedding Sand: This type of landscaping sand creates stable base for decorative features.
• Decorative Landscaping Rock: Kilgore’s wide selection includes cobblestones, pebbles, and more to match your style.

Winter Maintenance Around Your Firepit

In Utah’s cold winters, snow and ice can make the firepit area hazardous. Keeping the surrounding area safe and accessible is easy with products like Purple Heat Ice Melt salt. These are pet-friendly and concrete safe ice melt salts that won’t damaging nearby landscaping.

Recommended Product:

• Purple Heat Ice Melt Salt: Perfect for maintaining a safe firepit area in Utah’s snowy weather.

Benefits of Using Kilgore Landscape Center’s Products

Kilgore Landscape Center in Salt Lake City offers landscaping materials that are both functional and beautiful, making them a popular choice for DIYers in Utah.

Why Choose Kilgore’s Salt Lake Landscape Center?

1. Durable Materials: Kilgore’s products are designed to withstand Utah’s climate.
2. Aesthetic Appeal: From decorative landscaping rock to firepit glass, Kilgore provides options that enhance your backyard’s look.
3. Local Expertise: The team at Kilgore can guide you in selecting the best materials for your project.

Pro Tips for a Successful DIY Firepit

• Measure Twice: Ensure you calculate the correct amount of materials needed to avoid shortages or excess.
• Safety First: Keep the firepit at least 10 feet away from flammable objects and use only heat-resistant materials.
• Regular Maintenance: Sweep debris, clean firepit glass, and reapply polymeric sand as necessary to keep your firepit in top condition.

The Next Steps

Creating your own firepit isn’t just about functionality. It’s about transforming your outdoor space into a warm and inviting space you can use all year round. From decorative landscaping rock to landscaping sand, Kilgore provides everything you need to make your firepit both functional and stylish. Visit Kilgore Landscape Center in Salt Lake City or browse their catalog online to get started today.

Your dream firepit is just a weekend project away!