You can't scorch sand. Silica melts to form glass if you get it hot enough, but you can't do that in a backyard fire pit. People might be bringing dirt or pollen that ends up in the sand from it sitting outside. Is it a fireplace for wood or propane? If it is wood it will just end full of ash and cinders so it doesn't matter what you use and I wouldn't put anything in it. If you are using propane, use whatever you think looks good and that you can get a layer of in the fire pit without blocking anything. Lava rock is common as it will let Amy rain or dew evaporate quicker when it is not in use than if you used sand which would help with rust concerns. You could scorch/burn/melt things below your fire pit if you use it on the grass or deck. Throw a few pavers underneath it, doesn't need to be anything special as it won't get super hot. Answer from M7BSVNER7s on reddit.com
Walden Backyards
waldenbackyards.com › home › about fire pits › about fire pits
Should I Put Sand In The Bottom Of My Fire Pit? | Expert Tips From Walden Backyards
July 10, 2024 - Silica sand is also known as the most affordable type of sand available for purchase, making it optimal for those who enjoy plenty of fire year-round. [product=original-fire-grate] ELEVATED DESIGN FOR PEAK PERFORMANCE.
Reddit
reddit.com › r/homeowners › first time using a metal fire pit- do i need silica sand inside, and should i put anything underneath it?
r/homeowners on Reddit: First time using a metal fire pit- do I need silica sand inside, and should I put anything underneath it?
April 2, 2023 -
I’m reading you should put silica sand at the bottom of a metal fire pit as long as it doesn’t have any holes. It has no holes at the bottom. I looked up some brands but they have bad reviews saying the sand got scorched and wasn’t fire proof, and other kinds of sand with limited reviews to know I’m doing the right thing. I’m just not totally sure it’s what I should use. What about lava/volcano rocks? I keep coming across this type of rock. Just not sure what to use.
Also, the fire pit stands on 4 short legs. Should I put anything underneath it? I’m not concerned about it ruining grass underneath I just want to be sure it’s safe.
Top answer 1 of 4
5
You can't scorch sand. Silica melts to form glass if you get it hot enough, but you can't do that in a backyard fire pit. People might be bringing dirt or pollen that ends up in the sand from it sitting outside. Is it a fireplace for wood or propane? If it is wood it will just end full of ash and cinders so it doesn't matter what you use and I wouldn't put anything in it. If you are using propane, use whatever you think looks good and that you can get a layer of in the fire pit without blocking anything. Lava rock is common as it will let Amy rain or dew evaporate quicker when it is not in use than if you used sand which would help with rust concerns. You could scorch/burn/melt things below your fire pit if you use it on the grass or deck. Throw a few pavers underneath it, doesn't need to be anything special as it won't get super hot.
2 of 4
4
Just hose the area around the fire pit down a bit to be sure nothing near the thing can catch fire and maybe have a hose or bucket of water close just in case. I got one i use to burn sticks and stuff in. no sand needed. yes it will damage whatever grass or whatever is in the ground and it will burn the tree branches above it.
Videos
The Home Depot
homedepot.com › p › Fire-Pit-Essentials-10-lbs-of-Premium-Silica-Sand-for-Gas-Fireplace-and-Fire-Pits-01-0346 › 305145098
Fire Pit Essentials 10 lbs. of Premium Silica Sand for Gas Fireplace and Fire Pits 01-0346 - The Home Depot
Fire Pit Essentials 10 lbs. of Premium Silica Sand for Gas Fireplace and Fire Pits 01-0346
These small pieces of fire-proof sand provide the most cost-effective filler or base layer for gas fire pits and fireplaces. Fire glass, lava rock, ceramic balls and other decorative products can be added on top of the silica sand for effect. The fire sand helps with overall gas dispersion to create a more uniform flame.
Price $29.99
Amazon
amazon.com › Silica-Sand-Fire-Pits-Fireplaces › dp › B07894YK3B
Amazon.com: Silica Sand for Gas Fire Pits and Fireplaces - 10 Pounds of Fireproof and Heatproof Base Layer Sand for use Under Gas Logs, Lava Rock or Fire Glass : Patio, Lawn & Garden
Amazon.com: Silica Sand for Gas Fire Pits and Fireplaces - 10 Pounds of Fireproof and Heatproof Base Layer Sand for use Under Gas Logs, Lava Rock or Fire Glass : Patio, Lawn & Garden
Darbypit
darbypit.com › building-the-perfect-fire-pit-area-with-sand-gravel-and-rock
Building the Perfect Fire Pit Area with Sand, Gravel, and Rock , Darby Pit Gravel & Trucking
Many will be happy you’re using non-flammable ground cover, but ensure open fires are allowed and whether you need a permit for the pit. 4. Materials Calculation: For the base area, you’ll likely want a couple of inches of compacted gravel (as a foundation) and then a couple of inches of decorative gravel or sand on top.
Firepitessentials
firepitessentials.com › fire rock & sand › sand
Sand | Fire Pit Essentials
Natural lava rocks and fire-proof sand are excellent base layers for a fire pit. They can be used as cost-effective fillers to cover the bottom areas of a fire pit, then fire glass can be added on top for effect.
Amazon
amazon.com › ask › questions › Tx3LGRG9I4CGANE
Q: What type of sand is everyone using in this fire pit? ...
Don't put sand in it! It just holds any moisture that may get in. Drill holes in the bottom and line bottom with chunks of fire brick or lava rock. I've had mine for about 12 years and am just now replacing it with the same fire pit.
Hello Gravel
hellogravel.com › home › can sand be used for a fire pit area project?
Can Sand Be Used For A Fire Pit Area Project? - Hello Gravel
February 16, 2024 - When it comes to choosing sand for your fire pit area, it’s essential to consider factors such as heat resistance, moisture content, and grain size. The most recommended type of sand for fire pit areas is silica sand, also known as quartz sand.
suncreatoutdoor
suncreatoutdoor.com › blogs › fire-pits › what-is-best-to-put-in-the-bottom-of-a-fire-pit
What is Best to Put in the Bottom of a Fire Pit? | SUNCREAT – suncreatoutdoor
Are there any recommended types of sand to choose from? Silica sand is a good choice, it's also known as the most affordable type of sand available for purchase, allowing you to use the fire pit year-round without breaking the bank.
Firepitessentials
firepitessentials.com › fire rock & sand
Silica Sand | Fire Pit Essentials
These small pieces of fire-proof sand provide the most cost-effective filler or base layer for gas fire pits and fireplaces. Fire glass, lava rock, ceramic balls and other decorative products can be added on top of the silica sand for eff...
Top answer 1 of 2
3
The gravel is a good idea because reasons. Reason one being that gravel provides much better drainage than sand which will help keep the rather nasty water (rainwater through ashes is the traditional way to make lye) out of the yard or from freezing and heaving in the winter.
The second reason being that gravel compacts better than sand, and can be compacted by beating on it where as sand must be vibrated. A compacted base obviously means less settling down the road.
So while it's not essential it does add a bit of durability for the low price of a couple bags of paver base and thumping on it with a tamper. It's pretty cheap insurance against resetting pavers. But really the biggest recommendation is that you need not be concerned with the drainage and compaction properties of your existing soil.
2 of 2
0
You fill it with the regular sand so that the pavers remained properly spaced as they settle. Without that sand acting as a buffer you're liable to get pavers that move too much laterally and don't have enough of a gap between them for the polysand to get in.
I'm not sure about the gravel, but I suspect the answer is something along the lines of: Not strictly speaking, no, but it's probably a good idea because reasons.
F&J Outdoors
fj-outdoors.com › blogs › faq › enhance-your-fire-pit-experience-discover-the-best-materials-to-put-at-the-bottom
Enhance Your Fire Pit Experience: Discover the Best Materials to Put a – F&J Outdoors
October 6, 2023 - The base material determines the base durability and, ultimately, the lifespan of your fire pit. It acts as a protective layer, reducing the risk of ground fire while enhancing heat efficiency. Opt for a robust material like sand or fire-rated bricks for longevity.
Stanbroil
stanbroil.com › product › Stanbroil-Silica-Sand-for-Fire-Pit-Fireplace-and-Base-Layer-Decoration-10-Pound-Heatproof-and-Fire-Proof-Fire-Sand-for-Use-Under-Gas-Logs-Lava-Rock-or-Fire-Glass.html
Stanbroil Silica Sand for Fire Pit Fireplace and Base Layer Decoration - 10-Pound Heatproof and Fire Proof Fire Sand for Use Under Gas Logs, Lava Rock or Fire Glass - Stanbroil Outdoor
IMPROVES FLAME PERFORMANCE: Improves flame Performance with consistent gas dispersion in all directions, ideal as a base layer underneath fire glass, lava rock, fire pit balls or other decorative fire accessories.
Medium
medium.com › @jfleming81 › should-i-put-sand-in-the-bottom-of-my-fire-pit-ac488734d2ac
Should I Put Sand In The Bottom Of My Fire Pit | by Josh ImMan | Medium
April 25, 2017 - The holes are also for allowing the ash to fall beneath into the included catchment tray. However, not all fire pits have this catchment tray. First of all you should always read the instructions from the manufacturer. Some metal fire pits recommend you to use an inch or 2 thick layer of sand at the bottom of the pit.
Types of Plays
types.blog › home › types of sand to use for fire pit
Types of Sand to Use for Fire Pit | Types.Blog
Its heat absorption and redistribution qualities, coupled with its affordability and versatility, make it an excellent option for any fire pit owner. If you don’t have access to silica sand, several other alternatives can be used as ground ...
Walmart
walmart.com › ip › Silica-Sand-Heatproof-Base-Layer-Sand-for-Fire-Pits-amp-Fireplaces-10-lbs › 795405218
Heatproof Silica Sand Base Layer for Fire Pits & Fireplaces, Fine Grain, Small Bagged Rock - 10 lbs - Walmart.com
Silica Sand | Heatproof Base Layer Sand for Fire Pits & Fireplaces | 10 lbs
These small pieces of fire-proof sand provide the most cost-effective filler or base layer for gas fire pits and fireplaces. Fire glass, lava rock, ceramic balls and other decorative products can be added on top of the silica sand for effect. The fire sand helps with overall gas dispersion to create a more uniform flame.
Price $22.99
Exoticpebblesandglass
exoticpebblesandglass.com › home › blog › how to make a sand fire pit
How to Make a Sand Fire Pit - 2019 Landscaping Tips
June 5, 2019 - The larger stones will be used for the fire ring while the smaller stones are on the perimeter. Depending on how large the fire pit is will determine how many stones are needed. These stones can take up a lot of space and are very heavy. Ask the landscaping/home improvement store to deliver them to your house, most will do so free of charge. With this large of a quantity of stone being delivered, they will come packaged in pallets. Mortar cement and sand will be needed as well.
Firepitessentials
firepitessentials.com › fire rock & sand
Fire Rock & Sand
Natural lava rocks and fire-proof sand are excellent base layers for a fire pit. They can be used as cost-effective fillers to cover the bottom areas of a fire pit, then fire glass can be added on top for effect. If you like the look of the lava rocks or the sand alone, they’re an affordable ...
Posh Living Magazine
posh.co.uk › living › what-to-put-on-the-bottom-of-a-fire-pit
What To Put On The Bottom Of a Fire Pit? | Posh Living Magazine
June 20, 2024 - They provide exceptional fire resistance and structural integrity, ensuring your fire pit remains stable and secure even under high temperatures. Known for its superior heat protection properties, silica sand is an effective option for those ...
Rutland
rutland.com › products › silica-sand-fireplace-sand
Silica Sand - Fireplace Sand | Rutland
Silica Sand - Fireplace Sand
Comes in 13 lb. pail
Cost effective alternative when making your fireplace base layers
Can be used for vented and contained fireplace units
Outdoor or Indoor-use
Rutland's Silica Sand is the ideal candidate for fireplace sand for gas units or fire pits. Commonly seen as the base material in gas fireplaces, sometimes mixed with other decorative fireplace fillers such as fire glass and ceramic objects. It's non-toxic and safe to use with natural gas or propane.
Price $31.99