How to Build a DIY Paver Firepit in 8 Steps

Have you ever wanted to create your own backyard firepit? If so, you’ll want to take this guide on how to build a firepit with pavers in 8 steps to heart. The most important step of all when you’re building your firepit, though, is preparation.

1) Design Tips

To start, you will need to remove any excess dirt and stone from the area where you plan on installing your firepit. This way you can lay the pavers without anything obstructing them. Try and keep pavers as close together as possible while still providing a durable surface that is attractive to look at and safe to walk on. Place cement or stone on top of the pavers before they have dried out too much so they don't crack or break.

2) Where to Buy Pavers

Depending on the location, brick and concrete pavers can cost between $1.50-$3.00 per paver, which means that this project is realistically somewhere around $100-$150 (before any supplies). If you're unable to find pavers locally, most suppliers will ship within the continental US for a fee depending on how much you order. Amazon also has some fantastic options if you want it shipped right away.

3) Estimate Price and Prepare Budget

While pavers are one of the most expensive pieces of a fire pit, you can save money by building your own. You'll need:

4) Materials List

2-4 pieces of brick pavers for each side

Piece of wood, cinder block, or other support surface

Heavy duty steel kettle grill grate

Reflective sheet metal with non-adhesive facing

5) Lay Groundwork

Build your firepit on top of concrete patio pavers to avoid any sinking or settling issues. It'll also help with drainage if it does rain, since the water will flow through the gaps between the stones. Prepare for your pit by laying these on a flat surface and spreading gravel on top, which will create an even surface for you to start assembling the paver stone layers.

6) Laying the Bricks on Edge

The first step is to lay the bricks on edge, with two rows of bricks between each row. Be sure to leave an opening for the chimney. Continue this pattern until you have reached your desired length and width.

7)  Laying the Rest of the Pavers

 Layer your pavers until you reach the desired level, keeping them a half inch away from the first layer of bricks.

Take care not to damage the bottom of your bricks when using pressure to place them, as this can lead to cracking and warping over time. 4. Once you’ve finished laying all of your pavers, top them off with cement mix or sand so that water doesn’t seep into the joints and cause premature erosion.

8) Finishing Up

1. Coat the entire surface of the pavers with sealant, using your fingers or a brush. It should take between 4-6 coats of sealant for good coverage.

2. Paint any cracks and crevices on the pavers to prevent moisture from seeping through later on. You can also use concrete sealer spray like this one from Plastic Dip .