5 Tips for Designing a Patio around a Fire Pit (2024)

FAQs

5 Tips for Designing a Patio around a Fire Pit? ›

In terms of space, you will want to plan for seating that will allow for both group settings or cozy, intimate one-on-one time. A fire pit itself is rarely larger than four or five feet across. The patio space around it should be an additional four to six feet on all sides.

In terms of space, you will want to plan for seating that will allow for both group settings or cozy, intimate one-on-one time. A fire pit itself is rarely larger than four or five feet across. The patio space around it should be an additional four to six feet on all sides.

Pea gravel is great to add to a fire pit area because you don't have to be precise, it's comfortable to walk on, and it doesn't cost much per bag. Cover the entire weed block fabric with the pea gravel. Be sure that there is enough to cover the fabric without it showing through.

Putting gravel on the ground around your fire pit creates a nice, level base for seating. Plus, it protects the ground and surrounding area with a non-flammable material in case any embers make their way out of the fire pit.

To use a fire pit on a deck, start by placing it at least 10 feet away from anything flammable, including furniture, cushions, roof overhangs and deck rails. Next, create a fire pit safety base, an area for the fire pit to sit on that's not flammable.

When you are planning your outdoor living space, you will want to carefully plan your fire pit to make sure there is enough room around it for everyone to be comfortable. A good guideline is to have about 7 feet of space around the fire pit.

On a calm day, it's safe to sit 2-3 feet from your fire pit. However, if the wind picks up, ensure you move your chairs back. In windy conditions, it's advisable to maintain a safer distance of at least 7 feet from the fire pit for your comfort and safety.

To surround the firepit with pavers, create a 6-inch gravel base topped with 1 inch of coarse concrete sand. Lay the pavers in the pattern of your choice. After the pavers are in place, install a plastic or aluminum-edge restraint. Sweep concrete sand into the joints until the joints are full.

Cost-Effectiveness and Easy Maintenance. Compared to other materials like concrete or pavers, gravel is a cost-effective choice for your fire pit area. Bags of gravel are relatively inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly option for homeowners.

The best materials to put in the bottom of your fire pit are gravel, paver base or fire bricks.

What shrubs to plant around a fire pit? ›

Create a lush, vibrants space with plants and materials such as palms, ferns, and bamboo. These plants provide verdant atmosphere and can also provide privacy around the fire pit area.

Inorganic mulches such as decomposed granite, gravel, or rocks offer superior fire-proofing as landscape mulches and should be used when mulch is needed within five feet of buildings or any combustible structural materials such as siding or decking.

The ideal patio size for a fire pit ultimately depends on the size and shape of the pit, as well as how many people can comfortably sit around it. In general, a good rule of thumb is to plan at least six feet of room on all sides, between the fire pit and the edge of the patio.

Choosing a floor protector compatible with the surface on which you plan to place your fire pit is essential. For example, a fire-resistant mat or a deck protector may be the best option if you use your fire pit on a wooden deck. If you are building a fire pit in the garden, then gravel may be the ideal solution.

Consider using a rounded sofa, tree stumps, or backless picnic benches to create a circular seating arrangement. You can also add a hammock or swivel patio chairs to provide extra seating options and enhance the comfort and coziness of your fire pit seating area.

Place your fire pit at a safe distance (10-25 feet) from any flammable structures or surfaces. This includes your house, trees, shed, vehicle, neighbors' property, and wood deck, among other things. Keep your fire pit away from overhanging branches. A 21-foot clearance is standard for most municipalities.

We recommend a minimum of 25 square feet per person. So, if you plan to host 15 people- plan for a space around 375 sq. ft. We recommend a patio around 550 square feet for comfortable entertaining.

You can absolutely have a natural gas or propane fire pit under a covered patio if the overhead height of the ceiling meets CSA requirements for distance from appliance. This is usually 80 inches. Check your appliance manual for required distances.

The length of the paver fire pit multiplied by the width gives its total area in square footage. A 15 foot long patio that is 10 foot wide is (15×10)150 square feet. Dividing this total square footage with the surface area of each paver you intend to use gives the total number of pavers required.