Cold weather may be upon us, but that doesn't mean the backyard has to be a freezing no-go zone.
A backyard fire pit is a great gathering place for family and friends where everyone can enjoy not just the warmth but also the atmosphere that only comes from the sight of crackling flames and the satisfaction you feel knowing you have built it yourself.
"The ambience a fire pit brings is worth the investment alone," landscape expert Jason Hodges, an Adbri Masonry brand ambassador, said.
"Adding a fire pit will provide an immediate feature for the garden and become a natural gathering spot for socialising and entertaining and provides warmth as well as a great cooking source. People are naturally drawn to the campfire-like atmosphere.
"Building your own fire pit is a simple weekend DIY job.
"For those that love the outdoors, entertaining or star gazing on a cool night, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it."
The 84 Miniwall blocks used by Mr Hodges to create the pit pictured above cost about $440.
1. Choose the right spot
Choose a spot that is far enough away from plants, fences, trees or anything flammable. Consider the wind and the direction it will blow smoke from the fire. You should also be able to walk around the fire with ease.
2. Start digging
Dig a circular hole for the base of the fire – a three foot diameter creates enough space for a good sized fire while keeping everyone close enough to be able to chat.
3. Prepare the base
Level out some road base and compact. Once this is complete, spread sand throughout the trench and level. Sprinkle some neat cement over the levelled sand pad as this will help keep everything in place once you finish building and hose.
4. Start building
Use concrete blocks to start constructing the wall around the pit. Choose a block that enables circular walls or has speciality corner units to save you cutting the units. Adbri Masonry’s Miniwall blocks are a great choice for DIY. They are easy to stack, do not require any mortar or glues and give a great finish. For square and rectangular pits, use Versawall.
5. Build your fire
Construct a tepee by stacking wood the fire and enjoy all winter long!
■ Details: www.adbrimasonry.com.au.
