How Much Does It Cost to Build an Outdoor Firepit?

Firepit Cost by Building Material

The material you choose for your firepit determines the project price. The table below shows you typical costs for small above-ground firepit installations. Note that these costs are not for prefab units or custom kits, but the actual cost to build a firepit from each material.

Stone or Field Stone

The average cost of a built-in unit made of stone is $300. This material comes in various shapes, from rounded to angular, so homeowners can pick the shape that most appeals to them and best suits their landscape. They come in many colors, ranging from brown to gray, and are fine to use with charcoal or firewood.

To reduce costs, homeowners can look for locally-sourced materials. The best stones are igneous and metamorphic because they’re dense and non-permeable. Avoid sedimentary rocks because they’re softer and can have air pockets, which could cause them to explode under the right conditions.

Brick Paver or Fire Brick

A brick paver or fire brick structure costs about $280. Bricks can crack from intense heat, so fire bricks need to line the inside of the ring. Standard pavers can line the outside of the unit. With this design, your firepit can withstand the heat of firewood, charcoal, or gas-burning systems. Homeowners appreciate this material is attractive and continues to radiate heat well after the fire has died.

Concrete Blocks

A block firepit costs as little as $110. Blocks are inexpensive and large, so a contractor or homeowner can make a structure while minimizing materials. As a result, this is the least expensive material to use for construction. Use these to build a unit that burns gas, charcoal, or wood.

Nicolock

A Nicolock unit costs around $500. Their bricks come in various sizes, shapes, and colors. These pavers can withstand wood, charcoal, and gas-fueled fires.

Techo-Bloc Valencia

Techo-Bloc Valencia units cost around $610. Like Nicolock, these bricks are a brand-name type of paving stone. Homeowners can use them to build a firepit that burns gas, firewood, and charcoal.

Unilock Stones

The cost of a typical Unilock stone firepit is around $500. This brand-name paver can handle heat from firewood, gas, and charcoal. Homeowners can choose between various colors, sizes, and prices to fit their needs.

Average Firepit Installation Cost

Average firepit installation cost depends on several things, including size, fuel type, placement, and any additional features. 

Size of Firepit

While firepits can be any size you have room for, there are some accepted standard sizes. The table below shows you the most popular firepit sizes and how much you can expect to pay for each.

Fuel Type

The fuel type is a significant cost factor. It impacts both the installation cost and the long-term running costs. There are also issues around safety concerns and which fuel type is permissible in your location.

Charcoal is the least expensive option for installation, and these models are considered comparatively safe. Because they burn slow and hot and don't put off much smoke or embers, charcoal firepits offer more safety than wood. 

Natural gas is the most expensive fuel type, but it's also the most efficient, so it has low long-term running costs. Plus, this model has better resale value than other firepit types. Natural gas firepits cost more because they require the installation of a natural gas line, so the installation is more complex and time-consuming.

Building in to a Patio

A concrete or paver stone patio is a natural area to place a structure because it is a naturally fire-resistant part of the yard. Most homeowners have patio foundations laid before installing a firepit. Although, paver styles sit on the surface of the patio. Then, a high-heat furnace cement lines the inside of the structure. 

Homeowners working with a contractor to install a patio should discuss firepit installation with the contractor to ensure it factors into the paver patio cost and they don't face a surprise bill later.

Yard Area Placement and Prep

Preparation is necessary for placement in the middle of the yard. Things to consider:

• Location of nearby trees. No overhanging branches.

• Presence of dry brush. Cleared of brush to prevent the spread of fire to other parts of the yard.

• Slope. Yard must be level where the unit will sit

• Drainage. Use this in a part of the yard where water pools or creates puddles to avoid sitting the bricks in excess moisture

Some save money on patio installation costs. Those who want to cook on their patio may benefit from investing in an outdoor kitchen installation rather than a firepit.

Permitting

Your area may require a permit, depending on the type of firepit. A standalone above-ground unit that burns wood or propane is unlikely to need a permit, while an electric ignition or gas-burning unit likely will need one. 

Laws about who can get the permit and associated costs vary by location. If you live in areas of increased fire risk, expect tight regulations about the allowable size, fuel type, and placement.

Additional Features

Many homeowners choose to install other features that make the firepit safer, more enjoyable, and convenient for all.

• Enclosure: average cost to install a patio enclosure: $15,400.

• Fire glass: $50–$90 per 10-pound bag.

• Safety screens: $30–$160.

• Fire grates: $60–$80

Seating area: $2,500, depending on the type of seating and materials used.

Custom Built vs. Kits vs. Above-Ground Firepits

Custom-built units are the most expensive but most popular, offer the best resale value, and give you a permanent, custom structure you can enjoy for years. Prefab units are less costly but often less sturdy. They tend to be more budget-friendly and high-end models come in the form of a fire table rather than a barrel-like firepit.

In-Ground Units with Inserts

This type of product can cost $3,000 or more, depending on the size of the pit, type of inserts installed, and other features. Custom-built in-ground units with inserts are by far the most expensive type of firepit. 

Custom-built products are always more expensive because they require the contractor to design a structure from scratch. Inserts like a gas burner and electric ignition are also costly because they must connect to the home's gas and electrical line. 

Prefab or Pre-Made Firepit Kits

The average cost of a kit is between $500 and $600. Many companies make prefab kits that a contractor or a homeowner with DIY experience can assemble. Some pre-made kits come with everything you'll need. Others allow the buyer to pick and choose components for a customized look.

Prefabricated kits that claim to come with everything often lack certain accessories (such as grate, screen) that homeowners want to make their firepit safer or more convenient. Homeowners should read the descriptions of each kit carefully to ensure that it has everything they need to start.

Above Ground Firepit Price

An above-ground unit that does not need assembly is often less expensive than models that do. These products are often portable, easy to set up, and far less sturdy than assembly-required structures. 

Some products are as simple as a metal bowl on legs, costing around $60 or $70. Others may have the look of a built-in firepit and can cost a few hundred dollars. These units are typically available at home improvement centers.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Install a Firepit

While DIY firepit installation can cost a lot less than a contractor-installed, homeowners who plan to install their own unit must make sure that installation abides by local building codes. If the fuel type requires a connection to the home's electricity or gas, work with a licensed plumber and/or electrician for safe, up-to-code installation. We do not recommend DIY gas and electric installation. DIYers are responsible for getting their own permits.

Incorrectly installed units may be a safety risk for anyone nearby. There are many ways that a firepit can create safety hazards, including:

1. Soft stones can explode when used to line a firepit.

2. The gas could leak, or the electric ignition could cause injury to the person using the pit.

3. A homeowner could become injured by moving heavy stones on their own.

A DIYer who installs their own firepit could do so for as little as $200. However, that money could go to waste if improperly installed. A contractor who installs a firepit will charge significantly more. However, you ensure stable, safe, and long-lasting installation. Homeowners who plan to install their own structure and learn more about the safety aspect can check firepit safety information online before getting started.

Tools Needed to Install Firepit

A homeowner who hires a contractor will not pay for these because materials are usually a line item in the contract and most pros will supply their own tools.

Working with a Contractor

Homeowners hoping to hire a professional contractor can find the best person for the job by checking references and viewing pictures of earlier work. Homeowners should check a pro's license, insurance, and bond before signing a contract. Awards and accolades from local organizations can also be a good indicator of contractor quality. Contact contractors in your area to get your project done.