How to build a firepit and seats using bricks?

Question

Hey Community,

I live quite remotely and am trying to make a fire pit. I originally planned to use sandstone and 2m sandstone blocks for the seating area, but I can't get those materials into my yard or secure the labour needed. I'm curious about other people's experiences creating a seating area and fire pit using bricks from Bunnings.

If there’s a steel drum in the centre of the fire pit, can the bricks tolerate it? How have others constructed a seating area in the past? It seems pretty straightforward, but I wonder if the benches are sturdy enough. How have people bound the bricks together?

Thanks again! :)

EricL · Answer

Hello @Raddaz

I suggest having a quick look at this guide - How to build a fire pit by @Adam_W. This refers to using something like the

https://www.bunnings.com.au/jumbuck-round-steel-fire-pit_p3170944

or similar. However, if you are using a steel drum, I would suggest putting a 100mm buffer or gap between the brick surround and the steel drum. This will prevent heat from directly transferring to the brick surface.

I recommend looking at the Top 10 most popular fire pit projects. In regard to the seating there is also the option of using Merbau timber to create a seating area for your firepit area.

I recommend having a look at these discussions:

* DIY backyard fire pit area by @Supergav 
* Fire pit area with bench seats by @Rickson 
* New fire pit chair by @vickiec 
* Outdoor entertaining area with fire pit by @jessejujitsu 
* How to build bench seating for fire pit? by @amichaelmedia 
* D.I.Y fire pit bench seat and raised garden bed by @leeboi33

However, if you are really keen on brick, I suggest looking at one of my favourite brick seating layouts - Paved firepit area with built-in seating by @Codey.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric