Guide to Choosing and Building a Fire Pit

Whiz-Q Stone: Build the Lifestyle of Your Dreams

While the idea of building and enjoying a fire pit date way back, the rage for the backyard feature has increased in the past few years. Here at Whiz-Q I noticed this craze a few years ago. For that reason, we began to show homeowners and contractors easy and affordable ways to build these simple projects.

Whether your choice is out of natural stone, brick or tile, or out of segmental units like Pavestone or Unilock products, you must account for the heat of the fire. Traditionally you will see the use of "split" or "unsplit" fire brick that are manufactured to retain and insulate the heat to prevent any unexpected "popping" or tiny explosions of the stone material or concrete materials. Another heat insulating factor that some people are turning to is the use of metal rings that insulate the fire pit material and the heat of the flames.

The newest innovation from one of Whiz-Q's partners is Pavestone's newest Rumbled Wall Fire Pit. This pit features a metal ring and removal grate, adhesive, Rumbled Wall stones, and lava rock to create an entire fire pit without making any cuts! The coolest thing about the grate is that it is removable. That way you can use your fire pit to cook! It is really a nice innovation and very easy to install.

When I began to write this blog on outdoor fire pits, I cam across this article below. It really explains in Layman's Terms the different types of fire pits and the pros to using natural gas or propane to ignite the flames. 

The Best Types of Outdoor Fire Pits

By Jeff Horn

The concept of having an outdoor fire pit is not really new. Traditionally, these decorative yet useful pieces were not so glamorous, in fact they consisted of a hole in the ground. Today, they have come a long way from their simple original version, offering potential customers a decorative and functional addition to their existing outdoor landscape. Types of outdoor fire pits can be numerous, but here are some of the most popular.

Tile & Stone

Many fire pit enthusiasts prefer a more refined and permanent type that blends in to the natural flow of the surrounding structures. The tile and stone types offer that convenience. Sizes vary from large landscape pieces to a smaller accessory, they can be tailored to the size limitations of urban or rural residences. Generally, the fire pits size should not exceed three feet.

These should also be a safe distance away from any structures, and before building one, be sure to check with the appropriate city office to determine if having one of these violates ordinances or fire codes.

The type of construction material used is crucial in determining long-term durability. For example, using granite, due to its non-porous qualities, will likely mitigate any cracking or major degradation to the fire pit. On the other hand, choosing a brick or other porous stone may put more risk to the overall integrity of the unit.

Metal or Steel

Steel fire pits take on a shape of their own. Many of these have a decorative and unique design that is ideal for allowing proper ventilation or admiring the fire dancing within the bowl itself.

There are basically two ways to go when it compares to metal or steel versions. A metal/steel bowl and a steel ring. Metal bowls are probably the most popular. They typically have 4 legs and are best suited for placement on the dirt or grass (since the metal can get really hot, it is not recommended to put on wood decks or other potentially flammable surfaces.

Propane or Gas

These are somewhat similar to their popular household BBQ counterparts. A gas or propane fire pit is simple and clean to own and maintain, and a typical kit comes with the special logs, hook ups, and rocks for decoration. Companies famous for their propane tanks (i.e. Blue Rhino) have entered the market to create good quality gas versions.

An immediate benefit to using gas pits is the obvious simplicity to use, quick cleanup and maintenance, and less restrictions when placing one in close spaces (since sparks and uncontrollable flames are not a huge issue). The downside of using this type is that it won't likely be as warm as the log fire versions, but then again, it also won't leave you smelling like smoke afterward.

Summary

All these choices offer a unique experience and you can't really go wrong with any of these. Choosing the right one for you is based on personal preference or outdoor limitations. 

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6323919

So what ever you choose to build your fire pit out of please be sure to take all of the safety precautions when planning, building, and enjoying your piece. It's also not a bad idea to have a fire extinguisher handy just in case. I know it may be unsightly, but it could prevent you from having ONLY a fire pit to enjoy.

Until next time happy building and please check out our website for different fire pit and fireplace options to add to your outdoor room! www.Whiz-Q.com

Derek Whisenand

Hardscape Specialist

Paving Stone Carpets

Whiz-Q Stone: Build the Lifestyle of Your Dreams

When we signed on to partner with Unilock a few years ago, we had already had a wonderful look on the design aspects and technology that the company brought to the paver industry. It is because of these extra efforts, that they are able to show various uses of product that only the imagination can tame. Unilock calls them "accents."

Whether the accents come in forms of a color band in a wall of paver walkway, or if it is a completely different product sunken into a field of pavers, accents are what help to bring elegance and uniqueness to the project.

In our displays we have implemented many of the different "accents" that Unilock and Pavestone products have to offer. Differences in texture, shape, size, and color play an important part when coming up with that one off design plan. The easiest and most popular way to implement accents in pavements and hardscapes is to install what is called a "Paving Stone Carpet." What is that you might ask? A "Carpet" is when different styles, shapes, or colors of pavers are used in a living area to create what would mimic a decorative area rug indoors.

With the use of different styles of pavers, carpets are installed and professionally cut into the existing field area of pavers and stone to create and designate a certain area. The following was found on Unilock's blog site that explains the use of carpets and what they add to a hardscape plan.

In the last eight years, what used to be simply a flat paver patio, has evolved into the creation of decorative and functional outdoor living spaces. Various elements of interior design are increasingly being incorporated into outdoor design. Just like in a home where the flooring will change to re-create a feeling or define a function, so can the pavers used within your outdoor room.

Let’s stop and think. What basic questions do you ask yourself when designing an interior room? The first thing you should look at is your space and what you are trying to accomplish. Is the room used as a gathering space or a quiet corner for relaxing? Base your decisions on your personal preferences about colors, textures, fabrics, furnishings and décor. One of the most important aspects of any room is the flooring. Consider the flooring you have in your kitchen, your living room or your entrance way. You may have some distinct flooring designs that help define those particular spaces and their function within the home. Why did you select carpet, wood or rugs for the various rooms? These flooring decisions define the room.

A term I hear a lot concerning this new design trend is "paver rugs". What is a "paver rug"? A paving stone rug is a designed inset within an existing paver area. It is generally done with complementary colors and products. It's a lot of fun to personalize your outdoor room. Within the rug area, use different products with unique textures, stone like appearances, and bold colors. They can be laid in different patterns to help define the area and add visual interest.

Many times outdoor rooms also have areas defined by vertical features as well, like seat walls, pillars, outdoor kitchens,water features, fire pits, and fireplaces. These features are great for helping you choose complementary products and colors for these distinct accents.

Aside from aesthetics, paver stone carpets can also be designed for function. For example, in a grilling or dining area,stain-resistant pavers are a logical choice and make for easy cleaning. You could complement that popular sunken fire pit or fireplace area with natural stone-like pavers that enhance that intimate outdoor feeling.

So when designing an outdoor space, take it to the next level and add a personal touch with paving stone carpets.

The use of Copthorne adds elegance to what would be a rather "bland" space inside of the beautiful Umbriano field.

So when you look at planning your hardscape area, remember the use of "carpets" and "accents" to create a uniqueness to your project.

To see "accents" and "carpets" in use, be sure to check our Whiz-Q's Lifestyle Gardens Display at Whiz-Q Stone in Fort Worth, Texas. For directions or a virtual tour, check out www.Whiz-Q.com.


Until next time,

Derek Whisenand

Is a Base Really Necessary?

When installing any hardscape project whether it may be a retaining wall, patio or walkway, you expect the time and effort spent to result in many years of enjoyment.

So many times do I see do-it-yourselfers and some contractors for that matter skimp on the foundation of any great hardscape project. Just remember as you begin to build the lifestyle of your dreams in your backyard, the beauty is only going to last as long as the foundation it sits on.

Especially in Texas, we have a lot of clay soils. While these clay like soils are tough to dig and represent a hard, stable ground, they are all but not. Not to get too scientific, clay like soils act in a "heaving" and "contracting" matter. This means that as the soils absorb water they grow and swell. Being consisted mainly of clay, these soils tend to hold the water for long lengths of time, which in turn makes the soils moveable and very unstable.

In every installation whether it be a patio or retaining wall, a compacted base is neccessary. The material you use for a base may vary from project to project. For instance if you are looking to do a large flagstone patio where you plan to entertain and dine, you may want to pour a "scratch" cement base using Portland cement. However, if you are looking to do a concrete paver instead, then the base of choice would result in using a compacted aggregate and a bedding layer of sand.

While the material used for a base will result in the project and product being used, it is safe to say that any and all hardscape projects need to first be planned accordingly as well as taking all of the neccessary steps to ensure that the project will stand the test of time and offer many years of enjoyment. With the proper base preparation to any project, you will be loving your landscape worry free year after year.

For additional assistance in figuring the proper base material for your project or if you are seeking help to determine estimating or choosing product, please give us a call at 800-648-4551 or visit our website http://www.whiz-q.com/. We will be glad to help you Build the Lifestyle of Your Dreams.

-Derek Whisenand

How To Install a Paver Patio

Step 1: Prepare Gravel Base

The first step to creating a paver patio is locating all underground utilities. This can be done by contacting your local utility company. Once all of the utilities have been marked, make an outline of the area you wish to have pavers. After locating the areas you wish to pave and marking out your area, excavate the entire area to a depth of 7 - 7 ½”. This will allow for 4” of a compacted gravel base, 1” of uncompacted sand, and 2 ½” for the concrete pavers. Lay the base material over the entire area 2” at a time, rake smooth, and compact to a level surface with a hand tamp or a vibratory compactor.

Step 2: Add Sand

After the entire base is compacted smooth in 2” increments, the next area is to lay sand over the entire area of a depth of 1”. This will be an uncompacted “cushion” or leveling agent to lay the pavers on. Shovel sand over the entire area and use a straight 2” x 4” to smooth out the surface. Once the sand has been smoothed or “screeded” do not walk on it or disturb it in any way.

Step 3: Lay Pavers

Starting at one end, begin laying the pavers in any type of pattern you choose. For best results, try to lay the pavers in a diagonal fashion. Not only will this keep the pavers tight, but it will also help to keep your lines straight as you go along. Continue to lay the pavers until you have completely laid the entire area, less the places that will require cutting. For any irregular spaces, it may be necessary to use a chisel or masonry saw to cut pieces to fit.

Step 4: Install Edging

Once the pavers have been cut and fitted to the area, the next step is to add the edge restraint. The edge restraint is what holds the entire patio together and prevents the pavers from shifting apart from one another. To do this you can either use concrete or an aluminum edging.

The preferred method is an aluminum edging as it is easier to use and lasts longer than conventional metal or plastic edgings. To do this, measure and cut the edging to the required length to secure the edge of the paver area. When installing this edging, make sure that the edging is sitting on the gravel base below because the sand is not secure enough to hold the edging in place. Secure the edging with 12” spiral landscape spikes, making sure that you are spiking the edging into the gravel base and not the regular soil. This ensures that the edging will remain secure and prevent your pavers from moving laterally.

Step 5: Compact Pavers

The next step is to compact the entire paver area using a vibratory plate compactor. The reason for compacting over the pavers is to ensure that the pavers are settled in the sands below, preventing them from moving around. Do this by taking the vibratory plate compactor over the entire area one time (**do not use the vibratory plate compactor on patio stones or when overlaying a concrete patio).

Step 6: Fill Joints

Once the pavers have been compacted, the next step is to use Techniseal Polymeric Sand over the entire area. Polymeric Sand is a revolutionary technology being used by installers and paver manufacturers around the globe. It helps to deter weed growth and sand washouts in the sand joints between the pavers.

Do this by spreading a thin layer of sand over the entire area and using a push broom to sweep the sand into the paver joints. This will help to lock the pavers into each other creating what is called “interlock.”

Step 7: Compact Pavers (Again)

That’s correct. The vibratory plate compactor is used once more over the entire area, this time forcing the sand from above down into the joints. Once the area has been passed over by the plate compactor one time, you can then sweep the sand over the area to fill voided areas between the pavers. After each paver has sand between them, you can sweep the remaining sand off the area.

Step 8: Activate Polymeric Sand

Once the paver joints have been completely filled with sand, use a small leaf blower to remove any excess dust off the surface of the patio. This ensures that the polymeric sand dust doesn’t remain on the surface, activating with the addition of water.

Now spray the entire area with a water hose and a spray nozzle. Be sure to follow the instructions for activating the Polymeric Sand that is printed on the outside of the bag.

Once the polymeric sand is activated, stay off the surface for 24 hours.
If you have any questions on laying your own paver patio or any other hardscape project, visit our website at http://www.whiz-q.com/ or give a call: 800-648-4551.

-Derek Whisenand