If you’re thinking about installing a fire pit on your property, you have many options to consider. Fire pits come in numerous shapes, sizes, and styles.
There are even DIY fire pits. As the name implies, these are sets that allow a fire pit’s owner to construct and install the fire pit on their own.
This is an option you may consider when making a purchase. To better determine if a DIY fire pit is right for you, keep the following factors in mind.
Expertise
Building and installing a DIY fire pit does require a certain degree of experience and mechanical know-how. In fact, although homeowners can technically purchase DIY fire pits and put them together on their own, these kits are often designed for a contractor to put together.
Only buy a DIY fire pit if you’re thoroughly confident you have the skills necessary to safely and properly construct and install it. If you don’t, you run the risk of wasting a lot of money and potentially putting your safety at risk. If you’re not certain you have the expertise required to build a DIY fire pit, strongly consider getting one that’s already been constructed.
Time
Putting together a DIY fire pit can take some time. That might not be a major deterrent if you’re the type who enjoys working on such projects. However, if you’d simply prefer to have your fire pit installed as quickly as possible, buy a premade unit instead.
Laws and Regulations
Various laws and regulations can limit how large a fire pit can be, where it can go on a property, etc. In some instances (for example, if you live in a neighborhood with a homeowners association), it’s also possible for there to be regulations prohibiting you from building your own fire pit. For safety reasons, sometimes homeowners associations, landlords, and local authorities only allow fire pits to be built and installed by trained professionals. Make sure you’re thoroughly familiar with all applicable regulations before deciding to build a DIY fire pit.
Permits
Sometimes, laws and regulations may not necessarily prohibit homeowners from building and installing DIY fire pits, but will nevertheless require that they get the proper permits before doing so.
This is another topic worth researching. If you discover you’ll need to secure a permit to build a DIY fire pit on your property, you may decide you’re better off saving time (and, potentially, money) by purchasing a fire pit that’s already made.
Additionally, it may be necessary to get the fire pit certified for insurance reasons once it’s completed. A fire pit that’s premade will likely already be certified. Consider this when deciding which type to buy.
All of that said, none of this is meant to discourage you from buying a DIY fire pit if you know you have the skills to build and install one, you know you have the legal right to, and you don’t mind spending time on this project. Just be aware that DIY fire pits are by no means the only types available. You can always consult with an expert at your chosen fire pit supplier if you need more help making this decision.
