Adding a fire pit to your backyard can extend the entertainment area beyond the traditional patio while providing a warm, cozy place to gather with friends on a chilly night. Different types of patio rock can create the perfect complement to your fire pit area, and they can also provide a bit of protection for your lawn too. Here are some ideas you can use to give your outdoor space a stunning finishing touch using patio rock materials.
Pea Gravel
Pea gravel offers a simple solution to finishing the ground directly around your fire pit. The loose format requires no caulk or sealing, making it easy to give your outdoor space a quick makeover. You may want to grade the dirt around the fire pit to ensure even placement for your gravel. It's also a good idea to dig an inch or two deep in the area surrounding your fire pit before you add your patio rock. This can help prevent the small stones from escaping into your grass. Consider adding paving stones around the edge of where you'll be placing the gravel for another way to keep the loose rocks in place.
Flagstones
Flagstones are a versatile decorating tool for landscaping. They can underscore a rustic or upscale design theme, depending on the use and application, and they can also create the perfect barrier for protecting your lawn against loose embers from your fire pit. Flagstones do require some installation, but they can typically be installed relatively quickly. For this idea, you'll need to remove the sod and dirt from around the fire pit, just as you would with the pea gravel. You'll then want to put down a layer of sand or fine gravel before putting down the flagstones. Once you have all the flagstones in place, use pea gravel or another type of smaller patio rock to help close in the gaps and create a finished look.
River Rock
River rock is a great option for decorating with a nature-inspired motif. These patio rocks come in an array of soft, neutral colors, and they can blend well with an array of patio furnishings to complete your outdoor fire pit area. Installation with river rock is very similar to pea gravel, making it a quick and simple way to update your yard. You can find river rock in several different sizes, so be sure to select the option you think works best with your space.
With all three of these ideas, you'll want to build a retaining wall around where the stone will sit. If you're concerned about drainage or proper installation, consider hiring a contractor or a landscape company to help you create a stunning look for your built-in fire pit using beautiful patio rocks.
