By Tristan HollandUpdated November 2026
A fire pit using cinder blocks is one of the most practical backyard projects you can take on. The blocks are inexpensive in terms of materials, easy to stack, and give you a sturdy ring that holds heat well. The weak point is usually the inside of the ring: bare blocks can crack under repeated heat, and a plain open pit does little to control smoke or sparks. This guide covers three well-regarded options that work with a block surround, chosen by looking at specifications, brand reputation and common owner feedback rather than by any hands-on testing of our own.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallBreeo Zentro Fire Pit Insert – Stainless Steel, Square 24 in with LidView on Amazon - 2
Best for large circlesBlue Sky Outdoor Living 36" Square Smokeless Fire Ring InsertView on Amazon - 3
Best budget pickStainless Steel Fire Pit Gas Burner Support Flange Kit for Your OutdooView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Breeo Zentro Fire Pit Insert | Smokeless burning in a block ring | Stainless steel square insert with lid |
| Blue Sky Outdoor Living 36″ Square Smokeless Fire Ring Insert | Larger block surrounds | Double-wall powder-coated steel |
| Stainless Steel Fire Pit Gas Burner Support Flange Kit | Gas burner installs in block pits | Five-piece support flange kit |
Breeo Zentro Fire Pit Insert – Stainless Steel, Square 24 in with Lid
Smokeless firepit ring insert for outside block, stone & concrete backyard surrounds Breeo Zentro Fire Pit Insert – Stainless Steel, Square 24 in with Lid
Best for: Smokeless burning in a block ring
This insert suits homeowners who want a contained, smokeless wood fire inside a block surround and who value a cover for off-season protection. It is designed as a ring-style insert rather than a full pit, so the cinder blocks do the structural work while the insert handles the fire.
Key specs:
- Square format, 24 inches
- Stainless steel construction
- Includes a lid
Pros:
- Stainless steel resists rust better than bare steel in damp climates
- The lid helps keep rain and debris out when not in use
- The compact size fits typical block layouts without extra framing
Cons:
- At 24 inches, it may feel small for larger groups
- Like any wood-burning insert, it still needs regular ash removal
Bottom line: A strong pick for homeowners who want a clean, lidded insert for a standard-size block ring and plan to use it regularly.
Blue Sky Outdoor Living 36″ Square Smokeless Fire Ring Insert
Smokeless Fire Ring for Outside Fire Pit, double-wall, powder-coated steel insert, standalone/ block surround, large capacity Blue Sky Outdoor Living 36" Square Smokeless Fire Ring Insert
Best for: Larger block surrounds
This is the choice for a wider pit or a block ring built for a bigger gathering. Its 36-inch footprint gives more room for seating around the fire, and the double-wall construction is intended to hold heat better than single-wall designs.
Key specs:
- Square format, 36 inches
- Double-wall powder-coated steel
- Designed as a standalone or block-surround insert
Pros:
- Generous size suits larger patios and family gatherings
- Double-wall design is intended to improve heat retention and airflow control
- Powder coating adds a layer of weather resistance for outdoor use
Cons:
- The large footprint requires a correspondingly sized block ring, which takes more materials and space
- Powder coating can chip over time if the insert is dragged across hard surfaces
Bottom line: Best for people building a larger block fire pit who want a wide, durable insert with a solid double-wall build.
Stainless Steel Fire Pit Gas Burner Support Flange Kit for Your Outdoor Landscape Block Fire Pit
Stainless Steel Fire Pit Gas Burner Support Flange Kit for Your Outdoor Landscape Block Fire Pit. Makes Installation Easy and Safe! 5-Piece Kit for 28"-33" Burner Pans.
Best for: Gas burner installs in block pits
If you want a gas fire rather than wood, this five-piece flange kit is designed to support a burner pan inside a landscape block pit. It is aimed at do-it-yourself builders who want a stable, level seat for the burner instead of improvising a support with loose bricks or scrap metal.
Key specs:
- Five-piece kit
- Designed for burner pans in the 28 to 33 inch range
- Stainless steel construction
Pros:
- Provides a purpose-built support, which is safer than makeshift framing
- Stainless steel suits outdoor exposure
- Helps keep the burner level and the pan seated consistently
Cons:
- Only works with burner pans in the listed size range, so check measurements first
- Gas installations require correct line routing and fittings, which may need a licensed installer depending on local code
Bottom line: The right choice for someone converting a block pit to gas, provided the burner pan size matches and the gas line work is handled correctly.
Buying Guide
Insert Size and Block Layout
Measure the inside dimension of your block ring before buying anything. A standard cinder block is 8 by 8 by 16 inches, so a square ring built with 16-inch blocks laid end to end gives you clean, predictable interior dimensions. Leave at least 6 to 8 inches of clearance between the insert and the blocks so heat does not directly contact the masonry for long periods.
Good picks for this: Breeo Zentro Fire Pit Insert, Blue Sky Outdoor Living 36″ Square Smokeless Fire Ring Insert
Wood-Burning or Gas
Decide early whether you want wood or gas. Wood inserts give a traditional look and smell, but they produce ash and smoke. Gas burners are cleaner and easier to start, but they require a gas supply and fittings. The two types need different hardware, so the choice determines which product category you should shop.
Good picks for this: Stainless Steel Fire Pit Gas Burner Support Flange Kit, Breeo Zentro Fire Pit Insert
Material and Corrosion Resistance
Stainless steel generally holds up better outdoors than plain carbon steel, especially in humid or coastal areas. Powder-coated steel can also perform well, but the coating needs to stay intact. Look at the metal type in the listing and choose based on your local weather.
Good picks for this: Breeo Zentro Fire Pit Insert, Blue Sky Outdoor Living 36″ Square Smokeless Fire Ring Insert
Wall Construction and Heat Management
Double-wall designs are intended to reduce the heat that reaches the outer surface and to improve airflow, which can help the fire burn more cleanly. If you plan to sit close to the pit, this matters more than in a casual setting where guests stay a few feet back.
Good picks for this: Blue Sky Outdoor Living 36″ Square Smokeless Fire Ring Insert
Lid, Cover and Storage
A lid keeps water, leaves and insects out between uses and helps the insert last longer. If you live where the pit sits uncovered for months, a lid or a fitted cover is worth considering. Some inserts include one, while others need a separate purchase.
Good picks for this: Breeo Zentro Fire Pit Insert
Fit With the Burner Pan
For gas setups, the burner pan size must match the support. A support designed for 28 to 33 inch pans will not hold a larger or smaller pan securely. Measure the pan, confirm the size range, and only then buy the support kit.
Good picks for this: Stainless Steel Fire Pit Gas Burner Support Flange Kit
Maintenance and Care
Plan for regular cleaning. Wood ash should be removed once cool and disposed of in a metal container. For steel inserts, wipe off residue after use and check coatings or welds for damage each season. Store the insert covered when the pit is not in use.
Good picks for this: Breeo Zentro Fire Pit Insert, Blue Sky Outdoor Living 36″ Square Smokeless Fire Ring Insert
FAQ
Are cinder blocks safe to use for a fire pit?
Standard concrete blocks are commonly used for fire pit rings, but they are not designed for direct, sustained flame. Keep the fire inside a metal insert, leave clearance between the fire and the blocks, and avoid hollow blocks with trapped moisture that can crack. If you are unsure about the masonry, consult a qualified mason or contractor.
How far should a fire pit be from the house or fence?
Many local fire codes and fire departments recommend keeping a fire pit at least 10 to 25 feet from structures, fences and overhanging branches, but the exact requirement varies by location. Check your city or county rules before choosing a site.
Do I need a metal insert inside a block fire pit?
An insert is strongly recommended. It protects the blocks from direct flame, contains embers and makes cleaning easier. Without one, the blocks absorb heat and can deteriorate over time.
What size fire pit ring should I build with cinder blocks?
A common approach is a ring with an inside diameter or width of about 24 to 36 inches, depending on how many people you expect to seat. Match the ring size to your insert, leaving clearance between the two.
Can I convert a cinder block fire pit to gas?
Yes, many builders do this using a burner pan and a support kit. However, gas lines and fittings must be installed correctly and comply with local code. Consider hiring a licensed installer for the gas portion.
How do I keep the blocks from cracking?
Use an insert to keep flame off the masonry, avoid building fires too large for the ring, and do not pour water on hot blocks, which can cause thermal shock. Inspect the ring each season and replace damaged blocks promptly.
Is a stainless steel insert worth it over steel?
Stainless steel generally resists rust better, which matters most in humid, rainy or coastal climates. In dry areas, a well-coated steel insert may also last many seasons. Your local weather should guide the choice.
Conclusion
A fire pit using cinder blocks works best when the masonry is paired with a metal insert or burner support designed for the job. The Breeo Zentro Fire Pit Insert suits most standard wood-burning block rings and offers a lid for off-season protection. The Blue Sky Outdoor Living 36″ Square Smokeless Fire Ring Insert fits larger gatherings and double-wall heat control. The Stainless Steel Fire Pit Gas Burner Support Flange Kit is the right route for a gas conversion, as long as the burner pan size matches and gas work meets local code. Measure your ring first, decide on wood or gas, and then choose the product that fits.
Sources
- Consumer safety guidance on outdoor fire and grill use, including general fire safety precautions (cpsc.gov)
- Fire safety standards and guidance on outdoor fires and clearance from structures (nfpa.org)
- U.S. Fire Administration information on residential outdoor fire safety (usfa.fema.gov)
Related reading
- 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 8 Movable Gas Fire Pit Options for Patios and Backyards
- Top 7 Propane Fire Pit Tabletop Models for Patios and Camping in 2026
About Tristan Holland
Tristan has been writing about backyard living & play for this site, with an eye on clear explanations, honest trade-offs and options for different needs and budgets.
