Building a brick paver patio with a flaming fire pit is one of the “hottest” trends today. Homeowners experience a wide range of benefits when they finish this simple DIY project. Cost-effective and doable within a few days, building a fire pit should be a prime consideration.
What are the benefits of building a brick paver patio with a fire pit?
A sense of community is felt as friends and family sit around the fire pit on cozy nights, swapping stories or sharing laughs. The warm glow of the fire pit exudes a warm and friendly feel—which are highly sought-after qualities when lounging on the backyard patio.
Adding a brick paver patio with a fire pit instantly increases the resale value of the home. This simple home remodel takes a few days but boosts the home’s value for years. It’s a win-win decision, since the build can return between 80-100% of the initial investment.
Opportunities for entertainment grow when a fire pit is built on the brick paver patio. Families spend nights watching their kids make smores over the fire. Young people gather with friends around the fire pit, sharing laughter and merriment. Or couples enjoy cozy nights alone in front of the pit.
How much does building a brick paver patio and fire pit cost?
Laying the brick paver patio precedes building the fire pit. It takes a full day to build the patio and costs about $350. The fire pit can be built within an hour. The cost of building the fire pit depends on its size and materials but averages $50 to $150.
What are the steps to build the brick paver patio and fire pit?
1. Gather Materials and Tools
The materials needed include pavers, paver sand, paver base, and wall block stones. Obtain the tools necessary, such as a shovel, rake, wheelbarrow, tape measure, and level. A hand tamper and a 2×4 are needed, too. Spray paint is helpful as a marker.
2. Outline the Patio Space
Outline the area intended for the brick paver patio. Most homeowners avoid extensive patios, as green space is desirable. Choose an area directly behind the home or to the side for easy access from the back door. Mark the work area with spray paint.
3. Dig the Area
Dig the marked-off area with a hand shovel, removing grass and weeds. Dig to a depth of four inches to accommodate the paver base and one inch for the paver sand. For example, if 3-inch pavers are being laid, dig to a depth of 8 inches.
4. Lay the Base and Pavers
Drop four inches of paver base over the newly dug area. Spread it out with a rake and use the hand tamper to tamp it down. Create a level surface by laying sand. The 2×4 is useful to scrim this layer. Begin laying down the pavers in the desirable pattern.
5. Sprinkle Sand
Once the brick pavers are laid out and aligned with each other, sprinkle the paver sand over them. Sweep the sand particles in between the cracks with a broom. Use a garden hose to wet the sand; this step secures the sand and deters future weed growth.
6. Choose a Spot for the Fire Pit
Determine the location of the fire pit. Some homeowners prefer it to be in the center of the brick paver patio, while others opt for it to be on the side of the property. Regardless, it should be built in a hazard-free location, away from buildings and windy areas.
7. Lay Wall Block Stones
Lay down the wall block stones in a circular shape or any other preferred geometric figure. Square fire pits offer a modern look, while circular ones blend in seamlessly with the garden. Consider that most fire pits are 36 to 44 inches in diameter.
8. Place Additional Layers
Before adding a second layer of stones, ensure the first layer is level. When adding the next layer, stagger the stones to allow air holes throughout the structure. Check that this layer is level and then continue adding layers until the fire pit is one foot above the patio surface.
9. Sweep in Joint Sand
Once the structure is complete, sweep in joint sand around it. Homeowners may want to protect their new brick paver patio from the flames dancing in the fire pit. Do so by simply adding a layer of bricks along the bottom of the fire pit.
10. Add Finishing Touches
With the brick paver patio and fire pit complete, it’s time to add decorative elements. Patio furniture, accessories and décor bring personality to this outdoor living space. Consider adding a gazebo, foldable camping chairs, and a patio cooler for the days and nights of entertainment.
Hang string lights from the trees to create a welcoming ambiance. If opting for a gazebo, keep it away from the fire pit; smoke from the fire can be toxic without optimum airflow. A deck box is attractive and practical, as it provides storage space for outdoor accessories.
When your current backyard seems bare, you may wish to build a brick paver patio with a fire pit. While some homeowners can build a small one themselves, others may seek out the professionalism of a well-rated patio contractor, like Pavestone Brick Paving, Inc.
As a reputable patio building and installation service, we build stunning backyard patios of any size and shape. Our Unilock pavers are available in a variety of styles, sizes, textures, and colors. When you work with our design team, the start of your perfect patio is a discussion away.
While brick pavers offer durability and strength, natural stone patios offer their own unique aesthetic and functional benefits. Natural stone slabs are visually pleasing, versatile, and cost-effective. No matter what materials you choose, our team will accommodate your design preferences.
Pavestone Brick Paving, Inc, is the dream patio contractor for homeowners in Des Plaines, Illinois, and surrounding communities. Delivering gorgeous, enduring results, we fulfill your vision for your backyard space. Call us today for impeccable workmanship and a dedication to exceptional customer service.
