Building Your Own Gas Fire Pit: A Step-by-Step Guide
Welcome back, DIY enthusiasts! In this blog post, I am excited to share the process behind my latest project: building a stunning gas fire pit that combines functionality with modern aesthetics. If you’ve ever dreamed of having a fire pit that not only looks great but is also easy to use, you’re in the right place. In this post, I’ll outline each step I took, share some tips along the way, and include all the materials I used.
Introduction
In the video, I set out to create a fire pit that ticks all the boxes: it had to be visually appealing, easy to ignite, and something I could leave unattended without worry. The result? A gas fire pit with a beautiful concrete top and a sturdy wooden base.
Step 1: Building the Form for the Concrete Top
The first step in creating the fire pit was to construct a form for the concrete top. I used melamine boards to build a simple form, attaching them with screws and sealing the edges with caulk to prevent leaks. For the insert in the top, I strategically used foam boards to achieve the desired measurements. It’s a bit unconventional, but it worked like a charm!
Step 2: Preparing the Concrete Mixture
Next up was mixing the concrete. I wanted a darker aesthetic, so I added a coloring agent to the mix. After several pours and a bit of finesse with a magnesium float to smooth everything out, I was ready for the next phase of the build.
Step 3: Constructing the Base
The base of the fire pit was built using pressure treated lumber cut into 2 x 2 ‘s to create a sturdy structure. I chose to go with propane for fuel, which offers the convenience of instant flames. The simple leg design with added braces provided stability, ensuring that the weight of the concrete was well-supported.
For the external cladding, I opted for beautiful cedar planks. The horizontal installation added an elegant touch that beautifully contrasted with the concrete. I’d love to say it was my idea, but that was all my wife.
Step 4: Installing the Gas Components
I sourced a fire pit kit from Amazon, which included everything I needed for the gas connections. The installation required a bit of creative problem-solving, but with some extra blocking for stability, I got everything securely in place.
Step 5: De-molding and Finishing the Concrete
Once the concrete cured, it was finally time to de-mold. Although it was a little tricky, the result was worth it! A dye slurry helped to fill any small voids in the surface, and after sanding, I polished the concrete to perfection. Sealing was crucial for durability, and I chose a high-quality product to ensure the finish lasts for years.
Step 6: Adding the Trap Door
One of my favorite design elements is the hidden trap door, which utilizes magnets for seamless closure. It provides access to the propane tank while keeping the design clean and minimalistic.
Conclusion
After a week and a half of work, I’ve transformed my backyard with this functional and stylish gas fire pit. The best part? It ignites with the simple push of a button, giving me peace of mind and the ability to enjoy hassle-free flames. Whether you're a seasoned builder or just starting out, I hope this guide inspires you to take on your own backyard project.
For a full visual walkthrough, check out the video linked below, where I go into detail about each step of the process and the materials used. Let me know in the comments your thoughts and any questions you may have!
Happy building!
