Building a wooden firepit table is a fantastic project that combines both functional and aesthetic elements, allowing you to enjoy the warmth of a fire while having a stylish outdoor table. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to build one.
Materials Needed:
- Wood for the table frame and surface (cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated lumber works well)
- Firepit insert (gas firepit burner or wood-burning firepit insert, depending on your preference)
- Fireproof liner (for gas firepit)
- Metal firepit ring (optional, for wood-burning firepit)
- Concrete board or heat-resistant cement board (for safety)
- Screws (2.5-inch wood screws)
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper or a power sander
- Wood finish (stain or paint)
- Drill and driver
- Saw (circular or miter saw)
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Hinges (for lid)
- Protective gloves and goggles
Step 1: Plan and Measure
Start by deciding the size of your firepit table. Common dimensions are around 36-48 inches in diameter for round tables, or 36-48 inches long and 24-30 inches wide for rectangular tables. The height is typically around 20-24 inches from the ground, ensuring that it’s comfortable to use as both a table and firepit.
Step 2: Build the Table Frame
Cut the wood pieces for the table’s frame. You’ll need four legs, two long side pieces, and two shorter crosspieces. A basic rectangular frame would consist of the following:
- Four legs, each about 24 inches long.
- Two long side pieces (front and back), cut to your table’s desired length.
- Two shorter side pieces (the two ends), cut to your table’s width.
Use wood screws and wood glue to assemble the frame. Make sure all the corners are square, using a carpenter’s square, and that the frame is level.
Step 3: Add the Firepit Insert Area
Once your frame is assembled, create an opening for the firepit insert. For a gas firepit, this will be a rectangular or circular hole in the center of your table. The opening should be slightly larger than the firepit insert for a snug fit.
If you’re using a wood-burning firepit, you will need to add a metal firepit ring or use fireproof cement board around the edges of the opening for safety.
Step 4: Build the Tabletop
The tabletop will cover the frame and sit around the firepit insert. Cut the wood for the tabletop, making sure it’s large enough to cover the edges of the frame. A simple way is to use 2x4s for the top slats, spaced slightly apart for ventilation if you’re using a wood-burning firepit.
Once the pieces are cut, sand all edges and surfaces to ensure a smooth finish. If you prefer, you can finish the wood with an outdoor stain or sealer to protect it from weather damage.
Step 5: Install the Firepit Insert
Place the firepit insert into the hole you made earlier. If you are using a gas firepit insert, ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation, including venting and connection to the propane tank. For a wood-burning firepit, make sure the firepit ring is securely in place.
Step 6: Add the Table Lid (Optional)
To make the table more versatile, consider adding a lid to cover the firepit when it’s not in use. This lid can be made from the same material as the tabletop, but you’ll need to add hinges to one side of the lid so it can be easily lifted when you want to start a fire.
Ensure that the lid fits securely over the firepit insert and that it’s safe to touch even after the fire has been burning for a while.
Step 7: Add Finishing Touches
- Sand any rough spots on the wood to make the table smooth and comfortable.
- Apply a fireproof coating or heat-resistant paint to any areas that will be near the fire.
- If you’ve built a lid, add handles to make it easy to remove and replace.
- For extra safety, you might want to add a protective rim around the firepit to prevent accidental burns.
Step 8: Final Assembly and Enjoy
Once everything is assembled, ensure the table is sturdy and level. Your wooden firepit table is now ready to use! You can add chairs around it and enjoy a cozy outdoor setting, whether you’re using it for dining or simply relaxing by the fire.
Remember to always follow safety precautions when using your firepit table, especially if you are using a wood-burning insert. Keep the firepit area clear of flammable materials, and always supervise the fire when in use.
Enjoy your custom-built wooden firepit table!
For more woodworking ideas and detailed tutorials, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.