This rehabbing exteriors article about building a fire pit continues where Part 1 left off. In the first part, the ground was prepared for digging. It has already been marked an inch outside the circle with a spade. Now, remove the blocks you used as guide and be ready for some light excavation.

Dig a foot-deep trench with the width of the block. That will form a circular trench where the foundation blocks will later be laid on. Next, dig six inches inside the trench. The circular “plateau” in the center should then be six inches high. Try laying out the blocks anew. Make sure they perfectly fit in the trench, which you can widen accordingly. Once you find the perfect fit, remove the blocks and pour gravel on the trench. Use 3/4-inch drainage gravel to fill the trench. Make sure the gravel and the “plateau” are level. Compact the gravel with a hand tamper.

With the gravel foundation laid out, the next step to building a fire pit is placing the first layer of blocks. The first ground blocks should sit flat on the gravel so if you’re using interlocking ones, make sure to chip off their tongues first. Lay out the blocks one by one, making sure they are flat on the ground through a 2-foot level. If a block is too high, lightly hammer it with a rubber mallet. Use a shim if the block is too low. Make sure all blocks are level and tight. Meanwhile, you can use a 4-foot level to check the level across the circle. This part of this rehabbing exteriors project may be a bit tedious but it is crucial that you have a level foundation. It will determine whether the succeeding levels will fit perfectly.

Next, you can assemble the second level. Zigzag masonry adhesive across two blocks using a caulking gun. Then, carefully lay down one block to cover the seam between the two blocks in the first level. If you are using interlocking blocks, this step will be easier. Squeeze more glue in a zigzag motion on the first level and complete the second level. Once the second level is complete, pour six inches of gravel. Then, proceed to completing the third and fourth levels of blocks. The thick steel ring will then be inserted inside the circle. It should be level with the top of the fourth level. If it falls short, you may use more gravel to elevate it.

The final step to building a fire pit is laying out capstones. Take into consideration that those who gather around the pit are likely to prop up their feet on the capstones so these should also be leveled. Make sure the capstones fit tightly before you apply a mound of mortar using a trowel. Score them with a brick hammer and a chisel or a grinder for thicker stones. Tap them with a rubber mallet for level and fitting. You can also use blocks instead of capstones. This rehabbing exteriors project will be ready for use after two days of completion.