Fire Pit Size Calculator

Number of People	Seating Arrangement	Fire Pit Diameter (inches)	Fire Pit Depth (inches)
2-4	Intimate Circle	24-30	12-16
4-6	Small Circle	30-36	12-18
6-8	Large Circle	36-44	12-18
8-10	Rectangular	48-60 (Length) x 36 (Width)	12-18
10+	Custom	Custom	Custom

FAQs

How big should my fire pit be? The size of your fire pit depends on your preferences, available space, and the number of people you plan to accommodate. Generally, a diameter of 36 to 44 inches is common for backyard fire pits.

How big should a fire pit be for 6 people? For 6 people, a fire pit with a diameter of around 4 to 5 feet would be suitable, providing enough seating space and warmth.

How many landscape blocks do I need for a fire pit? The number of landscape blocks needed for a fire pit depends on the size and design. To determine the exact quantity, you should measure the desired dimensions of the fire pit and calculate based on the block size.

Is 30-inch fire pit too small? A 30-inch fire pit can still be enjoyable for smaller gatherings and intimate settings. However, for larger gatherings, you might consider a larger size for more comfort.

What is the best depth for a fire pit? The recommended depth for a fire pit is around 12 to 16 inches to allow sufficient space for airflow and proper combustion.

How much room should be around a fire pit? There should be at least 7 to 10 feet of clear space around the fire pit to ensure safety and prevent hazards.

How many blocks do I need for a 4-foot fire pit? The number of blocks required for a 4-foot fire pit depends on the size of the blocks. Typically, you would need around 12 to 16 blocks for a circular fire pit.

What do you put in the bottom of a fire pit? Many people use a layer of sand or gravel at the bottom of the fire pit to help with drainage and prevent the fire from directly contacting the ground.

How many blocks go around a 36-inch fire pit? For a 36-inch fire pit, you would need approximately 10 to 12 blocks to create a circular design.

Do you put landscape fabric under a fire pit? Using landscape fabric under a fire pit is optional but can help in reducing weed growth and keeping the area cleaner.

How thick should concrete be for a fire pit? The concrete used for a fire pit should be at least 4 inches thick to provide a sturdy base.

Can I use regular pavers for a fire pit? Regular pavers can be used for a fire pit, but they should be heat-resistant and appropriate for high-temperature applications.

What is a comfortable distance from a fire pit? A comfortable distance from a fire pit is typically around 5 to 7 feet, allowing people to enjoy the warmth without feeling too hot.

Does a fire pit need a bottom? A fire pit doesn’t necessarily need a bottom, but using a layer of sand or gravel at the base can help with drainage and insulation.

How big is a 32-inch fire pit? A 32-inch fire pit has a diameter of 32 inches, providing a medium-sized fire pit suitable for small gatherings.

Should a fire pit be round or square? The shape of the fire pit depends on personal preference and aesthetics. Both round and square fire pits can work well.

What is the best surface around a fire pit? Non-combustible surfaces such as concrete, pavers, or natural stones are best for the area around a fire pit.

Should a fire pit be above or below ground? A fire pit can be either above ground or partially below ground. Both options are valid and have their own benefits.

Where should you not put a fire pit? Avoid placing a fire pit near overhanging branches, combustible materials, or too close to buildings.

Where should a fire pit be placed in the yard? A fire pit should be placed on a level, non-combustible surface, away from flammable materials and at a safe distance from structures.

Is it safe to put a fire pit on a wooden deck? It is generally not safe to place a fire pit directly on a wooden deck. You should use a fire pit pad or protective barrier to prevent heat damage.

Are cinder blocks safe for a fire pit? Standard concrete cinder blocks are not designed to withstand high heat and can crack or explode when exposed to the extreme temperatures of a fire pit. Refractory or fire-rated concrete blocks should be used instead.

What is the best stone for a fire pit? Natural stones such as sandstone, limestone, or granite are excellent choices for building a fire pit due to their heat resistance.

Can I use wall block for a fire pit? Wall blocks specifically designed for fire pits, which are heat-resistant, should be used to ensure safety.

Can you use river rocks in a fire pit? River rocks may contain moisture, which can cause them to crack or explode when heated. It is safer to use heat-resistant stones or lava rocks for a fire pit.

Why do you put sand in the bottom of a fire pit? Sand at the bottom of a fire pit can help with drainage and create a protective layer to prevent the fire from directly contacting the ground.

Why do you put rocks in the bottom of a fire pit? Rocks at the bottom of a fire pit can aid in drainage, increase airflow, and serve as a heat-absorbing layer.

How do you calculate the number of pavers for a fire pit? To calculate the number of pavers needed for a fire pit, measure the desired dimensions and then divide the area by the size of a single paver.

Do you need special retaining blocks for a fire pit? Using fire-rated retaining wall blocks specifically designed for fire pits is essential to ensure safety.

How much room do I need around my 48-inch fire pit? For a 48-inch fire pit, you should have at least 7 to 10 feet of clear space around it for safety and comfort.

Is pea gravel good for a fire pit area? Pea gravel can be used as a base or filling material around a fire pit, but it is not recommended for the inside of the fire pit as it can explode due to moisture.

Should you put a fire pit on grass? It is not advisable to place a fire pit directly on grass. Use a fire pit pad or non-combustible base to protect the grass from heat and damage.

Is it safe to put an outdoor rug under a fire pit? Outdoor rugs are flammable and should not be placed directly under a fire pit. Use fire-resistant materials or a fire pit pad instead.

Will concrete crack if used as a fire pit? Concrete can crack if exposed to high heat, so it’s important to use heat-resistant concrete or refractory materials for the fire pit.

Do you need special concrete for a fire pit? Yes, special refractory or heat-resistant concrete is recommended for the inner lining of a fire pit to withstand high temperatures.

What do you put under a fire pit to protect concrete? Use fire bricks, pavers, or a heat-resistant barrier to protect the concrete from the intense heat of the fire pit.

What is the best material for a fire pit? Materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, or heat-resistant concrete are often used for the construction of fire pits.

What do you put around a fire pit? Non-combustible materials such as pavers, natural stones, or gravel are typically used around a fire pit for safety.

How to make a cheap fire pit? A simple and cost-effective way to make a fire pit is by using affordable materials such as cinder blocks or repurposed materials.

How far does a fire pit have to be away from a propane tank? A fire pit should be placed at least 10 feet away from a propane tank to ensure safety.

Should you pour water on a fire pit? Yes, pouring water on a fire pit after use is essential to extinguish any remaining embers and prevent accidental fires.

Does the shape of a fire pit matter? The shape of the fire pit is mainly a matter of preference and aesthetics. Both round and square fire pits can be functional and attractive.

How tall should a fire pit be? The height of a fire pit should be comfortable for seating and not obstruct the view of the fire. A typical height is around 12 to 18 inches.

How big should holes be in a fire pit? Holes in a fire pit should be large enough for sufficient airflow to support combustion. Size and number of holes may vary depending on the fire pit design.

What size is a smokeless fire pit? Smokeless fire pits come in various sizes, but most portable ones are around 19 to 24 inches in diameter.

What is the diameter of a camping fire pit? Camping fire pits can range in diameter, but many portable models have a diameter of around 15 to 18 inches.

How much room should be around a fire pit? There should be at least 7 to 10 feet of clear space around a fire pit to ensure safety and comfort.

Is a shallow or deep fire pit better? A shallow fire pit may provide more radiant heat, while a deeper fire pit can hold larger fires and offer a better view of the flames.

What kind of fire pit gives off the most heat? Wood-burning fire pits tend to give off the most heat compared to propane or natural gas fire pits.

What is the best metal to line a fire pit? Stainless steel or heavy-duty steel is commonly used to line fire pits due to its heat-resistant properties.

Can I just dig a hole for a fire pit? You can dig a hole for a fire pit, but it is essential to create a non-combustible lining or use fire-resistant materials for safety.

Can a fire pit be next to a house? A fire pit should be placed a safe distance away from the house and any flammable structures to prevent fire hazards.

What are the disadvantages of a fire pit? Disadvantages of a fire pit can include safety concerns, smoke production, and maintenance requirements.

Is it OK to leave a fire pit burning overnight? It is not safe to leave a fire pit burning unattended, including overnight. Always extinguish the fire completely before leaving.

What should you not burn in a fire pit? Avoid burning materials such as treated wood, trash, leaves, or plastic in a fire pit, as they can produce harmful fumes and increase pollution.

Do you put landscape fabric under a fire pit? Using landscape fabric under a fire pit is optional but can help in reducing weed growth and keeping the area cleaner.

What do you put in the bottom of an outdoor fire pit? A layer of sand, gravel, or fire bricks can be placed at the bottom of an outdoor fire pit to aid in drainage and insulation.

Should I dig my fire pit into the ground? Digging a fire pit into the ground is an option, but you should still use non-combustible materials for the inner lining.

How far should a fire pit be from a deck? A fire pit should be at least 10 to 20 feet away from a wooden deck to prevent heat-related damage and fire hazards.

What can you put under a fire pit to protect the deck? Use a fire pit pad or non-combustible barrier to protect the deck from the intense heat of the fire pit.

What kind of fire pit is safe for decks? Propane or natural gas fire pits are generally safer options for decks, as they produce less smoke and embers compared to wood-burning fire pits.

Do you need a liner for a cinder block fire pit? Yes, a fire-rated liner or fire bricks should be used to protect the cinder blocks from the heat of the fire.

What kind of bricks do you use for a fire pit? Fire-rated bricks or fire bricks are suitable for the inner lining of a fire pit due to their heat resistance.