Here’s a Home Improvement Project to tackle this Labor Day Weekend: Build a Patio & Fire Pit

Labor Day weekend is a great time to tackle all the projects you’ve been putting off in the name of summer fun. With fall rapidly approaching, now is the time to buckle down and check all your home improvement plans off the to-do list before the cold weather hits.

Don’t know where to start?  Well, if you’ve always dreamed of adding a patio and fire pit, now is your time. There are many different types and styles of patios, so figure out what look you want and choose your materials accordingly.

But before you begin, make sure you get any necessary approvals: Your homeowners association may require that you get a project like this approved by the board before you may begin building. Depending on where you live, you may also need to obtain a permit from your city.

Once you have the go-ahead, purchase your materials. Pavers are a staple for patios, as they’re easy to put down and are made in a variety of materials, including concrete, brick and rubber, giving you plenty of looks to choose from. Flagstone is a beautiful choice if you’re looking for a more natural, earthy look. However, because the stones are irregular, it can be difficult to work with.

If you’re looking for something a little more practical, poured concrete patios are very durable and easier to maintain. They’re also more utilitarian and might not be a good choice if it’s not in line with the aesthetic value you’re looking to add to your property.

Pea gravel patios can be a visually interesting option for your backyard but can be uncomfortable on bare feet. It’s arguably the easiest option if you’re looking to put in a patio because it entails little more than creating a border and spreading the pebbles. A gravel patio might be a good option if you’re looking to create a chic space around your fire pit. Whatever material you end up using, be sure you build your patio on a level, sturdy base that allows water to drain away from your house.

Just because the sun is beginning to set on summer doesn’t mean it’s too late to get the most out of a fire pit. In fact, a good-looking fire pit is perfect for the family to enjoy the backyard well into the chilly months. Plus, having a beautiful fire pit can be a real asset to your home’s outdoor space when the time comes to sell. Many buyers look for a home with an attractive yard, and putting in a fire pit is a cheap and relatively easy way to make a big impact.

Before you start this project, check your local ordinances and make sure it’s legal for you to have a fire pit and how far away it needs to be from your home and your neighbor’s home. Once you’ve got the “all clear,” make sure you pick materials that can handle the heat. You’ll also need a steel ring insert to put inside your fire pit. Home improvement stores usually sell ready-to-install built-in fire pit kits for as little as $200.

Before you plop your built-in fire pit just anywhere, plan out how you want the finished project to look, beyond just the pit. The key is to make the whole area look welcoming. A hole in the ground surrounded by a few dinky old lawn chairs planted in the dirt isn’t going to have the same “wow” factor as, say, a stone bench that curves around a matching stone wall fire pit.

Lay down some stepping stones or a small patio to surround the fire pit. Pick out some comfy outdoor furniture or, for something a little more rustic, build a couple log benches.

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