There’s something timeless and satisfying about gathering around a fire pit. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows on a cool summer night or enjoying fall evenings with friends, a fire pit adds ambiance and function to your backyard. The good news? You don’t have to be a professional mason to build one.
At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, we’re big believers in empowering homeowners to take on creative, functional outdoor projects. If you’re in the mood for a weekend DIY that adds serious curb appeal, building a fire pit using landscape stone is a perfect place to start.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything—from planning and materials to construction tips.
Why Build Your Own Fire Pit?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s look at why DIY fire pits are so popular:
- Affordable: Prebuilt kits or hiring contractors can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars. DIY can save big.
- Customizable: Choose the shape, size, and stone to match your yard and taste.
- Satisfying: There’s a unique sense of pride that comes from building something with your own hands.
And if you’re in or near New Jersey, Kirk Allen Landscape Supply has all the landscape stone, sand, and gravel you need—plus bulk delivery right to your driveway. 📞 Call us: 973-347-3117
What You’ll Need
Here’s a checklist of basic tools and materials for a simple circular fire pit:
🔧 Tools:
- Shovel
- Level
- Rubber mallet
- Tape measure
- Garden hose or string (for marking the circle)
- Tamper (manual or plate compactor)
🧱 Materials:
- Landscape stone (flat-faced stone like Pennsylvania fieldstone or concrete retaining wall blocks)
- Gravel or crushed stone
- Fire bricks (optional, for the inner ring)
- Sand or stone dust
- Adhesive (for securing the top layer of stone)
If you’re unsure what kind of stone suits your project, our team at Kirk Allen Landscape Supply can help recommend materials based on your budget and style.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Choose the Location
Pick a flat, level area at least 10–15 feet away from your home, fences, or overhanging trees. Safety is a top priority. Also, check local codes—some townships require permits for open flames.
Step 2: Mark the Circle
Use a stake in the center and attach a string (or garden hose) equal to half your desired pit diameter. Walk in a circle, using the string to trace the outline. Standard pits are 36–44 inches wide inside, with a total footprint of 60–72 inches.
Step 3: Dig the Base
Excavate about 6–8 inches deep within the circle. This base allows for proper drainage and stability. Use the tamper to compact the soil.
Step 4: Add Gravel Base
Pour in about 3 inches of gravel or crushed stone, then compact it well. This prevents shifting and allows for water drainage.
Step 5: Dry-Lay Your First Layer
Start laying your landscape stones in a circle. Use the level as you go and a rubber mallet to keep everything even. Make sure this first layer is completely level—it sets the tone for everything else.
💡 Tip: Stagger the joints of each layer like a brick wall for stability.
Step 6: Stack Additional Layers
Continue stacking your stones, staggering joints. Use construction adhesive between each layer for added strength. Most fire pits have 3–5 stone layers.
If you’re using fire bricks, install them in a tight circle inside the pit to protect your stone from extreme heat.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
After the final layer, cap the pit with flat stones or a precast cap if desired. Fill the inner ring with 2–3 inches of sand or gravel to prevent flame contact with soil.
Let the adhesive cure for at least 24 hours before using the fire pit.
Cost Breakdown: DIY vs. Pre-Made Kits
| Item | DIY | Pre-Made Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | $150–$350 | $500–$1,200 |
| Labor | Free (your time!) | $400+ |
| Custom Design | ✅ | ❌ (limited) |
| Satisfaction | Off the charts 😄 | Depends |
As you can see, a DIY approach saves money and gives you more creative freedom. Plus, you can buy exactly what you need in bulk from Kirk Allen Landscape Supply.
Where to Get Your Materials
Kirk Allen Landscape Supply is your go-to partner for DIY fire pit materials in New Jersey. We carry:
- Bulk landscape stone
- Gravel, sand, and base materials
- Fire-safe bricks and caps
- Helpful staff ready to answer questions
📍 Need delivery? We offer fast bulk delivery across northern and central NJ—including same-day delivery in some areas.
Just give us a call at 973-347-3117 or visit our website to check availability.
Final Tips for a Successful Fire Pit
- 🔥 Use hardwoods like oak or maple—they burn longer and cleaner.
- 🧯 Always have a bucket of water or hose nearby for emergencies.
- 🚫 Never burn pressure-treated wood, trash, or plastics.
- 🌬️ Avoid windy days to prevent embers from spreading.
- 👨👩👧👦 Supervise kids and pets around open flames.
Start Your Backyard Transformation Today
A fire pit is more than just a pile of stone—it’s a place for stories, warmth, and making memories. With a few tools, the right materials, and a little elbow grease, you can build something amazing.
Need help sourcing materials? Let Kirk Allen Landscape Supply handle it. We’ve helped thousands of New Jersey homeowners turn backyard ideas into reality—and we’re happy to help you, too.
📞 Call us at 973-347-3117 or visit
🌐 www.kirkallenlandscapesupply.com
to get started!
