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How to Budget for a Backyard Fire Pit

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How to Budget for a Backyard Fire Pit

Upgrade your outdoor space for fall and spread the cost over 15 months without paying interest.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $1,200 before anything else
Across the 0% window $80.00/mo 15 months, no interest

How we got that: $1,200 spread evenly across the 15-month introductory window on the Discover it® Cash Back. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A fire pit changes how you use your backyard once the air turns crisp. It turns a chilly evening into a reason to be outside, usually taking a pro about two days to install.

Aim to book your contractor in late summer. Pros are often looking to fill their fall schedule before the weather gets too cold, which can give you more room to negotiate your quote.

The 0% intro APR is a deadline, not free money. If you have a balance left on the card after the 15 months end, you will start paying interest on the remaining amount.

The steps

  1. 01

    Gather three quotes

    Never settle for the first price you see. Call three local landscapers or hardscape pros to get written estimates. Compare what they include, like materials, gravel, and labor, to ensure you are comparing apples to apples.

  2. 02

    Set your budget

    The typical cost is around $1200. Factor in any extras like seating or stone upgrades, but stick to a hard number so you don't overspend on the project before you even buy the firewood.

  3. 03

    Use the Discover it® Cash Back

    If you pay with this card, you get 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. This lets you break your $1200 cost into manageable payments of $80.00 per month over that 15-month window.

  4. 04

    Schedule the build

    Aim for a September or October installation. You want the project finished before the first frost so you can enjoy the pit during the peak of autumn.

  5. 05

    Automate your payments

    Set up an automatic transfer from your checking account for $80.00 each month. This keeps you on track to clear the balance before the promotional window ends.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Discover it® Cash Back carries the date a person verified it against Discover and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Discover it® Cash Back terms →

Common questions

Should I build it myself?

You can, but gas lines and drainage are tricky. If you want a permanent stone structure, it is usually worth paying a pro to avoid safety issues.

Does the card cost money to use?

This card has no annual fee. Just make sure you pay your $80.00 each month so you don't run into interest charges later.

What if I finish paying early?

That is great. You will simply stop using the card for this purchase and save yourself any future interest risk.

Are there hidden costs?

Always ask if the quote includes disposal of old dirt or debris. Some pros tack that on as an extra fee at the end.