How to Build a Fire Pit |
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 Tools & Materials
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Enhance your home with a beautiful fire pit using the AB Courtyard Collection. With this flexible system you
can build a fire pit in a weekend without any special tools and without splitting blocks. To build on soil, you must create a
foundation pad.
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Step 1: Determine the LocationDetermine the location of your fire pit. Then lay out the first course of blocks to find the size of your fire pit and establish where the sod and soil will be removed to construct the base. In this example we used 28 AB York blocks to construct each course, making the diameter 81 in. (2.0 m).
Step 2: Build the Foundation PadMark the location of the blocks with a shovel, remove the blocks and sod, and dig a level trench that is 3 in. (75 mm) deep and 7 in. wide (178 mm). Fill the trench with crushed rock and compact using a hand tamper.NOTE: The soil beneath the foundation pad must be a good quality compactable material. If soft soils are encountered, they will need to be removed and replaced with additional crushed rock. A good foundation will ensure a stable wall for years to come.
Step 3: Level the Fooundation PadPlace 4 AB York blocks at the cross points of the circle. Use a straight 2x4 and a level to check the entire trench for level. Make adjustments as necessary by adding or removing crushed rock.Step 4: Construct the First CoursePlace the base course of block on the foundation pad, checking each block for level from front to back and side to side before placing the next block. This will ensure a level base course.Step 5: Build the Second CourseStack the next course of blocks, making adjustments as necessary. Once the second course is installed, remove any sod or vegetation from the center of the fire pit area. Lay in approximately six 50 lb (23 kg) bags of clean rock within the circle to cover the bottom of the fire pit. Then using a shovel, rake smooth.Step 6: Install the Decorative RockInstall decorative rock to line the interior of the fire pit (optional). Then place metal fire ring in the center of the fire pit area.Step 7: Finish the Wall with Wall CapsFinish your fire pit with Wall Caps. Once all the caps are installed, secure them in place with a bead of masonry adhesive on both sides of the raised rings (Optional). Your project is complete. Just add some wood, fire it up, and enjoy your beautiful backyard fire pit.
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Choose Your Location 
Mark Your Layout 
Build the Foundation Pad and Level 
Place First Course of Blocks 
Build the Second Course 
Install Large Decorative Rocks 
Install the Wall Caps 
Completed Fire Pit |
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