Backyard Firepit Construction: Everything You Need to Know Before You Build

Few things beat hanging out by a firepit on a cool Utah night. It’s cozy, relaxing, and adds that “wow” factor to your yard. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows or unwinding with a drink, a firepit becomes the backyard’s main attraction. But before jumping into fire pit installation in Utah, there are a few things you’ll want to know.

Let’s break it down—what to plan, what to expect, and how to make sure your fire feature is done right from the start.

Choose the Right Location

Location is everything when it comes to firepits. First, check your local fire codes; some areas have strict rules about how close you can build to structures, trees, or fences.

Next, think about wind direction and traffic flow. You don’t want smoke blowing into your house or right in the faces of your guests. And the pit shouldn’t be in the middle of your main walkway either. Our crew at Gold’s Landscaping always helps clients pick the safest and most practical spot for fire pit installation in Utah yards.

Pick Your Firepit Style

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to firepit ideas for backyard designs. You can go with a built-in stone firepit that matches your patio, or something a bit more modern with metal and concrete.

Gas or wood-burning? That’s another choice. Gas is cleaner and easier to light, but wood offers that classic crackle and campfire vibe. It really depends on how you plan to use it and what fits your style.

At Gold’s Landscaping, we build custom firepits that work with your layout, materials, and overall aesthetic. Whether it’s rustic, sleek, or something in between, we’ve got the tools to make it happen.

Think Beyond the Pit: Add-on Features

Don’t stop at just a firepit. This is your chance to level up the entire backyard vibe. Add built-in seating, paver patios, or even lighting around the area. Want to go even bigger? Pair it with Water Feature Construction in Utah for that perfect balance of fire and water.

A bubbling fountain or small stream near the firepit adds instant luxury and tranquility. It’s the kind of setup that makes neighbors jealous and outdoor dinners unforgettable.

Know the Materials

Not all materials are fire-safe. You’ll want to use stone, brick, or heat-resistant concrete blocks. Never use regular bricks or river rocks, they can crack or even explode under high heat.

When we build firepits, we use professional-grade materials that can take the heat and still look great over time. We also make sure everything is installed with proper ventilation and base prep so the firepit stays stable, safe, and functional.

Understand the Installation Process

Wondering how to build a firepit? Here’s a quick rundown:

Plan and prep – We map out the area, check slopes, and make sure the space drains well.
Base setup – A gravel or sand base gets added for drainage and stability.
Stacking and securing – Bricks or stones are stacked and bonded with fire-safe adhesive.
Finishing touches – We add caps, seating, and cleanup. Then it’s ready to go.

This process takes a few days to complete depending on complexity. And if you’re adding extras like seating walls, lighting, or water features, expect a bit more time—but it’s worth every minute.

Safety First

A firepit isn’t something you want to cut corners on. Safety comes first. We always install with firebreaks, proper ventilation, and non-combustible materials. Plus, we guide homeowners on upkeep and safe use, especially during dry months when wildfire risk is higher.

Final Thoughts

A firepit isn’t just a weekend project, it’s an investment in your lifestyle. It brings people together, adds value to your home, and makes your yard more usable year-round.

So if you’re dreaming about firepit ideas for backyard spaces, now’s a great time to bring them to life. At Gold’s Landscaping, we’ve been helping families across Northern Utah build outdoor spaces that look great and feel even better.

Whether you’re interested in fire pit installation in Utah or looking to pair it with Water Feature Construction in Utah, we’ve got your back, design, build, and everything in between. Let’s turn that empty corner of your yard into the ultimate hangout spot.