Passing the time outdoors is one of the most enjoyable holiday activities. A fire source is always useful whether you have an adorable tiny space set on your patio or you prefer to go camping. It is desired by barbecue fans and those who love to gaze at the stars. Natural gas fire pit burners can transform the way you enjoy nature and personal time beautifully.
This DIY project is hassle-free for all skill levels and customizable to your backyard.
We will break down the details about all of the components you will be going to need. You just need to go through the process and make proper decisions.
Several Things to Consider Before Getting Started:
Select Your Gas Type- Natural or propane
Natural Gas
Before you establish your fire pit, you need to understand that natural gas requires a permanent gas line. It will cost you much less than compared any propane fire pit. Besides, the natural gas fire pit will never cause gas scarcity.
Determine your Location
Most homeowners want to establish a fire pit on a smooth surface. Here, a smooth or leveled surface indicates a flat yard, deck, or stone patio. If you have determined to run a natural gas line to the unit, you should install the gas line with a certified gas technician before you get into this project.
Use a fire-resistant base underneath the fire pit if you intend to install it on the decks. It is necessary to prevent radiant heat to the surfaces, which can set off a fire. You can use a layer of pea gravel or sand as a non-flammable base for grass. You can also use bricks or stones.
Adequate Surface
It is suggested to make a minimum of six feet distance around the edges and above the burner area. Double-check the space according to your fire pit’s size because it is a prerequisite for establishing a fire pit.
Select your Compound
The enclosure is the infrastructure of a fire pit which you can buy separately or in a kit. Generally, it lodges the burner and combustion elements.
Ventilation
When you start to light a fire pit, you will need sufficient fresh air to let the system work correctly, and that’s why you will need ventilation. It will block excess heat and allow the fire pit to have an uninterrupted airflow. Ventilation should include a minimum of two built-in air vents. Otherwise, the expansion of heat can activate a hazardous situation. If you don’t want an explosion, then place at least two vents on the opposite of your burner.
Burners
You know, the burners play the most significant role in your gas-fire pit and they are available in a wide range of shapes and materials. For that, you have to choose wisely according to BTU outputs as it will be responsible for the flame’s height. You can buy a complete burner kit with exclusive features, although you can purchase them separately if you feel it is more convenient.
Pans
The position of the pans is underneath the media, so you have to consider the fire pit’s size and shape carefully while purchasing them. Here, you also need to consider that pans hold gas logs or lava rocks that work as media. Make sure that the pan’s diameter has to be three inches from the surface to the edge of the pan.
Connectors and Fittings
Try to install a whistle-free flexible pipeline to connect the gas source as the connector and fittings direct the gas to the burner. If you use any crinkled pipe or elbow connectors, it will result in an irritating whistle by turning in your hose pipe. You can also avoid the noisy whistle by mildly curving the flex line at the time of installation.
Ignition System
The ignition system is necessary for controlling the fire, which comes in two variants in the market. You can choose the most expensive automatic ignition system, or you may prefer a manual or push-button ignition system. An automated ignition system will cost you more because it requires an electrical connection. It is convenient to use because you can control it with a switch, remote, or even with a smart home system.
Also read: 7 best gas fireplaces for your home
Step by Step Method to Build a Natural Gas Pit Burner
Step 1: Take out all grass, sod, and roots if you’re planning to locate your fire pit in the grass. First of all, mark a 40” diameter circle.
Step 2: Extract 2” of soil and flatten the ground where the fire pit will be installed within the same surface.
Step 3: Build up the paver base by adding between 1-2” and level it throughout the procedure.
Step 4: Install the vapor barrier on top of a paver patio or grass after building up the paver base. The vapor barrier is not required if constructing on a concrete slab.
Step 5: Then lay your first hardscape chunk ring in a circle using 4” long tumbled radius pavers with an inner diameter between 32”-37”.
Step 6: If you use concrete blocks to set down the second ring, leave spaces more than 10 square inches in total.
Step 7: After placing the concrete blocks appropriately, gently pull out one block and apply concrete cohesive at a time. Lay down the block back on the ring and apply pressure so that the blocks can set together. Repeat this same procedure for every block.
Step 8: Assemble your pit burner and put it on top of the concrete block ring. Keep 1’ overlap to connect with the gas line and follow the gas connection procedure properly.
Step 9: Place the third layer of concrete block and repeat the adhesive process from step 5.
Step 10: Wait for some time to let the concrete adhesive set. Cover up the area with 2 inches of volcanic rock as hardscapes.
Step 11: Your natural gas fire pit burner is ready to use. Light the pit burner to check everything is perfect, and there is no risk of setting fire elsewhere.
Conclusion
A natural gas fire pit burner is a fantastic alternative to barbecue grills. You can enjoy the same warm environment that a wood-fueled fire provides without requiring any wood stocking. But establishing a DIY natural gas fire pit burner might be challenging for you when you are doing the project for the first time. Memorize the details we have discussed before you start building a gas fire pit burner from scratch.
If you don’t want any gas leaks, ensure to check your gas lines regularly. Monitor the materials such as paper, leaves, or foreign substances that can impose a high risk of setting off accidental fires. If you can follow the critical factors, you will indeed have a gorgeous backyard to enjoy.