How to arrange lava rock on a gas fire pit? (2024)

FAQs

How to arrange lava rock on a gas fire pit? ›

Dig a hole of appropriate size, level the ground, and create a solid base using gravel or sand. Then, place the fire ring or burner mechanism in the center of the pit. Finally, arrange the lava rocks around and on top of the fire ring or burner, ensuring that the gas outlets are not blocked.

First, as a protective layer, we recommend using small lava rocks at the bottom of the fire pit, ideally between a quarter and a half inch in size. This is essential. Once this is done, you must continue adding more lava rocks until you have a layer of lava rocks at least 4 to 5 inches deep.

The pebbles should be positioned so that the arrows always point towards the back of the fireplace opening. When located into position the stem of each arrow should be at 90° to the rear of the fireplace opening (See figure 3).

If your burner is the type that is meant to be fully covered with lava rock, it should be no more than half an inch below the lava rock. If you have the crossfire burner with jets they need to be left exposed or you can position the lava rock in a way that the air intake on the side of the jet is unobstructed.

Lava rocks are easy to maintain and give your fire pit a clean, modern look. Build a layer of 4-5 inches of lava rock within your fire pit. Then layer with wood, if that is your fuel of choice. If you are using gas, the entire fire pit can be filled with lava rock (or at least enough to cover the fire ring).

Depending on how often your fireplace is enjoyed, the lava rocks will need to be replaced every 1-2 years. Alternatively, fire glass will last for a much longer time than lava rock.

Lava rock has been the go-to choice for fireplaces and fire pits for several years. In comparison, fire glass is available in many options due to its manufactured nature.

Plan to leave openings on both sides for the gas to properly vent. This is done by leaving a single stone out on each side. If your fire pit is using propane, leave this opening as low as possible. If it's natural gas, the opening should be higher.

Unpack the coals/pebbles contained in a clear plastic bag and lay a row of coals/pebbles on the vermiculite along the back of the burner tray leaving approximately 12-15mm between them. Leave spaces at the edges to allow free flow of gas.

Layering rock to create texture

Lava rock has a beautiful color and texture, but you can make it even more appealing in your yard by layering it with stones of other colors and textures.

What do you put under lava rocks? ›

To keep weeds at bay, do put a fabric weed barrier down before spreading your lava rock.

So, do gas grills still need lava rocks? Nope! Your gas grill comes equipped with heat plates that perform the critical job of vaporizing juices resulting in barbecued flavour. In fact, using them could end up damaging your grill's components.

Note: The coals must not be crammed together, or inserted into the holes in the matrix. A well laid out, generously spaced coal layout will give the best results. Coals may be rotated slightly within their positions to give a good visual effect.