By Colin FosterUpdated November 2026
Building a fire pit with cement blocks is one of the most practical ways to add a backyard gathering spot, but the materials you choose matter as much as the layout. This guide compares six products that support a fire pit with cement blocks project, from heat-resistant mortar and firebricks to a finished wood-burning pit and a fire mat for protecting your deck. Picks are ordered by how well they fit common needs: build quality, heat tolerance, portability, ease of installation and value for a family backyard.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallRutland Castable Refractory Cement 12.5 Pound – High Temperature FirepView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for a ready-to-use pit47" Large Fire Pit, Square Outdoor Fire Pit with Poker, Wood Burning FView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for deck protectionDocSafe 40" Square Fire Pit Mat Under Grill Mat, 4 Layers Fireproof Indoor Fireplace PadView on Amazon - 4
Best for lining a block pit3000°F, 4-Pack, Insulating Fire Bricks, Clay Firebricks for Fire Pit, Pizza OvenView on Amazon - 5
Best for larger gatheringsPanovue 39 Inch Fire Pits with Outdoor Chimney and Wood StorageView on Amazon - 6
Best budget pickMGO Cement Material,BBQ Firepit,Family S'mores Fun,Compact Firepit,SmaView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Rutland Castable Refractory Cement 12.5 lb | Mortaring and casting around blocks | High-temperature refractory bonding |
| 47″ Large Fire Pit with Poker | Backyards wanting a finished pit | Square wood-burning design with poker |
| DocSafe 40″ Square Fire Pit Mat | Protecting decks, patios and grass | Multi-layer fireproof base |
| 3000°F Insulating Fire Bricks (4-Pack) | Lining the firebox | Rated to 3000°F, food-grade clay |
| Panovue 39 Inch Fire Pit | Larger family gatherings | Spark screen, log storage, chimney |
| MGO Concrete Outdoor Fire Pit 22″ | Small yards and compact spaces | Concrete construction, compact size |
Rutland Castable Refractory Cement 12.5 Pound – High Temperature Fireplace & Woodstove Fire Cement
Rutland Castable Refractory Cement 12.5 Pound – High Temperature Fireplace & Woodstove Fire Cement – Cast Custom Fire Brick, Refractory Panels & Fire Pits, Pizza Ovens
Best for: Mortaring and casting around blocks
This is the right choice for someone who wants to build a fire pit with cement blocks that holds up to real fire heat. It suits DIY builders who plan to set firebricks or join block sections and need a mortar designed for high temperatures rather than standard concrete.
Key specs
- Castable refractory cement, 12.5 lb bag
- Designed for high-temperature fireplace and woodstove use
- Suitable for casting fire panels and fire pit components
Pros
- Built for sustained high heat, unlike standard concrete mix
- Useful for bonding firebricks and repairing a firebox
- One bag covers small builds and repairs
Cons
- Requires careful mixing and curing; instructions must be followed closely
- Not a complete fire pit on its own, so you still need blocks and a layout plan
Bottom line: Pick this if you are building your own pit and want refractory bonding. Consult the manufacturer’s directions and a professional if you are unsure about structural safety.
47″ Large Fire Pit, Square Outdoor Fire Pit with Poker, Wood Burning FirePit for Camping, Backyard, Patio
47" Large Fire Pit, Square Outdoor Fire Pit with Poker, Wood Burning FirePit for Camping, Backyard, Patio
Best for: Backyards wanting a finished pit
A good fit for families who want a ready-made wood-burning pit instead of a block build. The square footprint works well on a patio or lawn with clear space around it.
Key specs
- 47-inch square format
- Wood-burning design
- Includes a poker
Pros
- Large cooking and seating area
- Works for camping and backyard use
- Ready to use without masonry work
Cons
- Heavy and hard to move once placed
- Needs a non-combustible surface underneath
Bottom line: Choose this if you want a fire pit that is ready out of the box rather than built from blocks.
DocSafe 40″ Square Fire Pit Mat Under Grill Mat, 4 Layers Fireproof Indoor Fireplace Pad
DocSafe 40" Square Fire Pit Mat Under Grill Mat,4 Layers Fireproof Indoor Fireplace Pad Heat Insulated Protect for Decks,Patios,Grass,BBQ Smoker,Portable Reusable Oil-Proof and Waterproof, Black
Best for: Protecting decks, patios and grass
Anyone building a cement block fire pit on or near wood, turf or pavers should consider a protective base. This mat helps shield the surface beneath the pit.
Key specs
- 40-inch square size
- Four-layer fireproof construction
- Oil-proof and waterproof, black finish
Pros
- Protects decks and grass from heat and sparks
- Portable and reusable
- Easy to wipe clean
Cons
- A mat is not a substitute for clearance distances set by local codes
- Can shift on smooth surfaces without anchoring
Bottom line: A sensible add-on for any backyard pit, especially on wood decks. Always confirm clearance rules with your local fire authority.
3000°F, 4-Pack, Insulating Fire Bricks, Clay Firebricks for Fire Pit, Pizza Oven
3000°F, 4-Pack, Insulating Fire Bricks, Clay Firebricks Replacement for Wood Stoves, Fireplaces, Fire Pit, Kiln, Pizza Oven Fire Bricks, Food Grade Woodstove Firebricks, Size 9″ x 4-1/2″ x 1-1/4″
Best for: Lining the firebox
Firebricks are the classic liner for a fire pit with cement blocks, since regular masonry blocks can crack under repeated intense heat. This pack suits builders who want a heat-resistant inner layer.
Key specs
- Rated to 3000°F
- Size 9″ x 4-1/2″ x 1-1/4″
- Four bricks per pack
Pros
- Protects the block structure from direct flame
- Standard size is easy to lay in a course
- Suitable for fire pits, stoves and ovens
Cons
- Four bricks cover only a small ring, so larger pits need more packs
- Brittle if dropped; handle carefully
Bottom line: Ideal as a firebox liner for a block pit, paired with refractory mortar.
Panovue 39 Inch Fire Pits with Outdoor Chimney and Wood Storage
Large Outdoor Fireplace, Mesh Spark Screen, Fire Poker Included, Built-In Log Storage, For Backyard Patio Camping Panovue 39 Inch Fire Pits with Outdoor Chimney and Wood Storage
Best for: Larger family gatherings
This suits households who host groups and want built-in features like a spark screen and log storage, rather than a plain block ring.
Key specs
- 39-inch outdoor fire pit
- Mesh spark screen
- Built-in log storage and chimney
Pros
- Spark screen adds safety around kids and pets
- Log storage keeps firewood close
- Chimney helps direct smoke upward
Cons
- Bulky footprint needs ample space
- Assembly and cleanup take more effort than a simple ring
Bottom line: A strong choice for family yards that want a complete setup with safety features.
MGO Cement Material, BBQ Firepit, Compact Firepit, Round Wood Burning Concrete Outdoor Fire Pit 22″
MGO Cement Material,BBQ Firepit,Family S'mores Fun,Compact Firepit,Small Spaces,for Garden Backyard ,Outdoor Gatherings Round Wood Burning Concrete Outdoor Fire Pit for outside-22”
Best for: Small yards and compact spaces
A compact concrete pit for smaller patios or yards where a full block build would overwhelm the space.
Key specs
- 22-inch round design
- Concrete construction
- Wood-burning
Pros
- Small footprint suits tight spaces
- Concrete look matches a block-style pit
- Good for s’mores and small groups
Cons
- Limited capacity for larger groups
- Concrete is heavy and can crack if moved roughly
Bottom line: The best pick for compact backyards or a simple, low-maintenance concrete look.
Buying Guide
Heat Tolerance of Materials
Standard concrete blocks can spall or crack under repeated high heat. Look for refractory cement and firebricks rated for high temperatures when building the firebox.
Good picks for this: Rutland Castable Refractory Cement, 3000°F Insulating Fire Bricks
Size and Fit
Measure your space first. A common comfortable ring for seating is roughly 36 to 44 inches across, but keep at least the clearance distances your local code requires between the fire and structures.
Good picks for this: 47″ Large Fire Pit, Panovue 39 Inch Fire Pit
Ground and Surface Protection
Wood decks, grass and pavers all need protection. A fire-resistant base reduces risk from embers and radiant heat.
Good picks for this: DocSafe 40″ Square Fire Pit Mat
Spark Control and Safety Features
Spark screens and sturdy lids reduce the chance of embers escaping, especially in homes with children or pets.
Good picks for this: Panovue 39 Inch Fire Pit
Use Case and Capacity
Decide whether you mainly want s’mores for two or seating for a crowd. Compact pits suit small gatherings, while larger units support groups.
Good picks for this: MGO Concrete Outdoor Fire Pit 22″, 47″ Large Fire Pit
Durability and Weather
Concrete and masonry handle weather well but can crack from freeze-thaw cycles. Seal or cover the pit and avoid burning wet wood.
Good picks for this: Rutland Castable Refractory Cement, MGO Concrete Outdoor Fire Pit 22″
Care and Maintenance
Remove ash regularly, check mortar joints each season, and replace cracked firebricks. Let the pit cool fully before cleaning.
Good picks for this: 3000°F Insulating Fire Bricks, Rutland Castable Refractory Cement
FAQ
Can I build a fire pit with cement blocks safely?
Yes, many people do, but use heat-resistant materials in the firebox and follow local fire codes. Consult a licensed mason or your local building department for structural questions.
Are regular concrete blocks safe for a fire pit?
Standard blocks can crack under repeated heat. Lining the inside with firebricks and refractory mortar is the safer approach.
What size should a cement block fire pit be?
A ring of about 36 to 44 inches inside diameter is common for family seating, but check clearance rules for your property.
Do I need a mat under a block fire pit?
A fire-resistant mat is a good idea on wood decks, grass and synthetic turf to guard against embers and radiant heat.
How do I keep a block fire pit from cracking?
Use refractory materials for the firebox, avoid pouring water on hot masonry, and inspect joints each season.
Is a ready-made fire pit better than building one?
A ready-made unit is faster and easier to move, while a block build offers a custom look and is often more permanent.
Conclusion
For a DIY block pit, start with Rutland Castable Refractory Cement and 3000°F Insulating Fire Bricks for heat-resistant construction. If you want a finished pit, the 47″ Large Fire Pit or Panovue 39 Inch Fire Pit fit family use. Pair any pit with the DocSafe mat for surface protection, and choose the MGO 22″ pit for a compact yard.
Sources
- Consumer safety guidance on outdoor fire and grill use (cpsc.gov)
- Fire safety standards and recommendations for outdoor burning (nfpa.org)
- Guidance on wood and outdoor combustion safety (energy.gov)
Related reading
- Fire Pit Using Cinder Blocks: 3 Best Picks for Backyards (2026)
- Concrete Blocks for Fire Pit: A Step-by-Step Build Guide for Beginners
- 6 Best Breeze Block Fire Pit Inserts and Wind Guards for Backyards
- Top 7 Movable Gas Fire Pit Options for Patios and Backyards (2026)
About Colin Foster
Colin Foster is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our backyard living & play guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
