DIY Concrete Fire Pit Guide: What You’ll Need to Get Started

Why Build a DIY Fire Pit?

Concrete fire pits are permanent features made from poured concrete that hold and contain fire for outdoor use. Unlike portable pits, fire tables, or expensive prefab kits, building your own lets you control the size, shape, and look without paying a premium.

A concrete fire pit makes a durable, weather-resistant centerpiece for any backyard or outdoor space. It stands up to the elements, doesn’t warp or rot, and makes a perfect addition for gathering with friends or family. And if you already own some basic tools or know where to borrow them, this project can easily be finished over a weekend.

The trickiest part? Mixing the concrete. That’s where the MudMixer comes in. Our electric mixer keeps your mix consistent from start to finish and takes most of the physical work out of the job. It speeds up the job and keeps cleanup simple.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

You don’t need a truckload of tools to build an outdoor fire pit, but you do need the right ones. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

How Many Bags of Concrete Will You Need?

Before you start pouring, it’s a good idea to calculate how much concrete you’ll need based on the size of your fire pit. The total number of bags depends on the diameter, height, and wall thickness of your form.

Pro Tip: Use our Concrete Calculator to get the exact number of bags you’ll need. Always round up and buy an extra bag; running out mid-pour can lead to uneven curing or structural weakness.

How to Build a Concrete Fire Pit: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Choose and Mark the Site

Pick a flat, open area at least 10 feet from structures or trees. Make sure there’s no overhead cover that could catch fire.

Mark your shape (round or square). For a circle, drive a stake in the center and use a string to mark your radius with spray paint or chalk.

Step 2: Dig and Add Gravel Base

Dig 6–8 inches deep in the marked area. This gives room for both drainage and your concrete form.

Pour in 3–4 inches of gravel or crushed stone. This layer keeps water from pooling and helps prevent cracking. Use your level to check the base. It needs to be flat and stable before pouring.

Step 3: Build Your Concrete Form

Use a steel fire ring or a plastic or wood mold to shape the fire pit. You’ll pour the concrete around this.

Double-check that the form is centered and level before moving on. A lopsided base will show once the concrete cures.

Step 4: Mix and Pour Concrete

With the MudMixer, this part is fast and simple:

• Set the water dial

• Load dry mix bags into the built-in bag opener

• The auger and water system combine everything into a smooth, ready-to-pour mix

• Use the 330° pivot chute to pour the mix directly into your form

No buckets, no back-and-forth. Just clean, continuous mixing that keeps your job moving.

“Feel free to mix this by hand... but I got to tell you, this MudMixer is freaking amazing. Easily four times as fast.” — DIYer testimonial

Watch This Step in Action

Step 5: Smooth, Cure, and Remove the Form

Use a trowel to smooth the top of the poured concrete. Keep it even and clean along the edges.

Let the concrete cure for 24–48 hours (weather depending). Once fully cured, carefully remove the form. If needed, use a wire brush or sanding block to smooth any rough edges.

Fire Pit Safety Tips

Safe use is just as important as proper construction. Always place your fire pit on a non-combustible surface like gravel or concrete and keep it at least 10 feet from your home or other structures. Use only seasoned wood, avoid accelerants like gasoline, and keep a fire extinguisher or water nearby. For more detailed guidelines, check out local codes or review these helpful outdoor fire safety resources.

Upgrade Ideas to Take Your Fire Pit a Step Further

Want to go beyond a basic pit? These add-ons improve both function and form:

• Built-in seating wall: Pour a concrete bench around part of the pit for built-in comfort.

• Drain holes: Use a short PVC pipe through the base to let rainwater escape.

• Rebar reinforcement: Add a wire mesh or steel rebar ring in your form before pouring to prevent cracking.

• Decorative top caps: Pour a second color or stamped concrete ring around the edge for a custom finish.

Tips for a Long-Lasting Concrete Fire Pit

• Use a steel liner to protect the concrete from direct heat

• Don’t place your fire pit on grass, wood, or deck surfaces

• Cover it when not in use to keep out rain and debris

• Skip the lighter fluid, accelerants can weaken the concrete

• Check once a year for cracks and reseal or patch as needed

Why the MudMixer Is Perfect for Fire Pit Projects

Concrete work usually means lifting heavy buckets, measuring water by hand, and mixing multiple small batches. The MudMixer takes all of that off your plate. 

With its continuous mixing system and built-in water control, you get a consistent mix without the guesswork. There’s no lifting, no worrying about too much or too little water, and no stopping to remix. It keeps your project moving, saves your back, and delivers professional results faster.

Top Features for DIYers:

• All-electric motor with forward/reverse settings

• 330° pivot chute for clean, precise pouring

• Flat-free tires for easy moving across dirt or grass

• Built-in hose for fast cleanup

• Heavy-duty steel build that holds up job after job

Mix and pour 40+ bags an hour, turning a multi-person job into a one-person project with better results.

Ready to Build Your Backyard Fire Pit?

Building your own concrete fire pit is a solid way to upgrade your outdoor living space. With the right tools and a little time, you can do the job yourself and save money in the process.

Using the MudMixer makes the process faster, cleaner, and more efficient.