How to Build a Firepit Up Through a Deck

Turn the firepit burner pan upside down onto the deck. Using chalk, trace the shape of the pan on the deck. Remove and set the pan to the side.

Drill a hole through the deck inside the chalk circle, large enough for the propane line.

Arrange the concrete blocks in a circle, just inside of the chalk line. Once you form the first circle, place the burner pan onto the blocks to ensure that it will fit properly. Remove the pan and add two more rows of blocks. Stagger the rows so each block centers over the two blocks below it. Leave a gap in the top row of blocks for a shut-off valve.

Add a row of capping stones on top of the concrete blocks for a finished appearance. Use a concrete epoxy to glue the capping stones in place.

Place four concrete pavers under the edge of the deck for the propane tank. Set the tank securely onto the pavers and attach the 10-foot propane hose to the tank's valve.

Feed the propane hose through the hole in the deck and the gap in the blocks. Attach the hose to a shut-off valve specifically made for use with propane. Attach a second hose to the other side of the valve and feed it back through the gap, keeping the valve outside of the blocks and easily accessible in case of emergency.

Place the burner pan onto the concrete blocks. Insert the burner ring into the pan. Attach the propane hose between the shut-off valve and the burner ring according to the manufacturer's directions.

Fill the bottom of the pan with crushed lava rock. Over the rock, add a layer of sand that extends up to the burner ring. Then add crushed fire glass to cover the burner ring.

Turn the propane tank valve on. Then turn the shut-off valve on. Light the firepit with a long-handled propane lighter.