Western Interlock’s kits are all-inclusive and are designed so no cuts are needed for a quick and easy installation. We’ve done all the work so you can achieve professional results! All you need to follow these directions are a shovel, rubber hammer, a level, gravel and a caulking gun.
Step 1:
Design
Draw a print of your project to determine what you will need. Find a location that is clear and open, free from overhanging branches; as well as 50′ from any building for safety. Spray paint fire pit outline on the ground with marking paint.
Step 2:
Excavate and add base
A solid gravel base works best to supports the weight of the fire pit blocks. Excavate 3″ and fill with ¾ minus gravel. Make sure the base is level and compact using a hand tamper, or to get maximum compaction, use a vibratory plate compactor. This will insure that the fire pit is level and will not settle.
Step 3:
Laying the bottom course
The first course will lie on the gravel base. After each block is laid, make sure each block is level in each direction. Use a plastic dead blow hammer to settle the block into the base. If the block needs to be raised, add gravel under the low side of the block and check the block for levelness. Take a longer level and check the fire pit from side to side. Use a 2×4 board to extend your level if necessary. The outside edges of the fire pit blocks should all be touching, and the inside will have small gaps between each block.
Step 4:
Laying the second or third courses
After the first course is set and leveled, use the adhesive cartridge supplied with the kit. Cut the end about half way down the nozzle and puncture the membrane in the end of the cartridge. Make sure the blocks are clean and as dust free as possible using a broom. Apply four quarter size dots of adhesive in the corner of each block of the first course, leave some space so it does not squeeze out the sides (see photo). Place blocks on top of the first course, offsetting the lines for better appearance.
Step 5:
Place the caps (optional)
After the second course is placed and adjusted, make sure the caps are clean and as dust free as possible. Apply four quarter size dots to the top of the second course exactly as you did for the first course. Place the caps around the top of the fire pit and adjust them to fit as neatly as possible. You will have to adjust the spaces between each cap to make the appearance look best. To achieve an easy cap effect with Chateau Wall™ Beveled, simply add one block to the course. This adds 2″ to the diameter, creating the appearance of a cap.
Step 6:
Enjoying the fire pit
Let the adhesive cure for 24 hours before use. Put your feet up and warm your toes! Get out the marshmallows and hot dogs. Have a friendly conversation with family and friends and check out the stars. (If it’s not raining!)
Download a PDF of these instructions here