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How to Pay for a Stone Fire Pit Lounge

How to · Event

How to Pay for a Stone Fire Pit Lounge

Plan a late-winter build to save on contractor rates and split the $3,500 cost over 18 months with no interest.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $3,500 before anything else
Across the 0% window $194.44/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $3,500 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Picture sitting around a roaring stone fire pit while the late winter air is still crisp. Building this lounge area in the off-season is a smart move because contractors are hungry for work and usually drop their rates. But you need to start planning in autumn to get on their schedules before the spring rush hits.

A solid stone setup averages about $3,500. Instead of draining your savings all at once, we can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card to space out the payments. With 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening, we can make the math work without paying extra for borrowing.

Keep in mind that 0% interest is not a permanent discount. It is a strict deadline. If you still have a balance on your Citi Simplicity® Credit Card after the 18 months are up, the remaining amount will start gathering interest at the standard variable APR, instantly making your cozy fire pit a lot more expensive.

The steps

  1. 01

    Lock in a contractor early

    Don't wait until spring to call builders. Reach out in October or November to pitch your late-winter project. They will appreciate the off-season work and you will get their undivided attention and better pricing.

  2. 02

    Map out the design

    Decide on the size of the stone seating and whether the fire pit is gas or wood-burning. Gas requires running a line, which adds complexity and cost. Stick to natural stone and wood-burning to keep your budget right around $3,500.

  3. 03

    Secure the Citi Simplicity card

    Apply for the card about a month before you need to buy materials or pay the contractor deposit. You get 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This gives you a long runway to pay off the project.

  4. 04

    Pay the deposit and materials

    Put the initial down payment and stone materials on your new card. Make sure the contractor orders everything early so it sits on-site ready to go. This keeps the project moving the second the ground is soft enough to dig.

  5. 05

    Set up your monthly autopay

    Divide your total $3,500 bill by 18 to get $194.44 per month. Set up automatic payments for this exact amount immediately. Paying this off before the promo period ends ensures you do not get hit with back interest.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

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

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Can I build a fire pit in winter?

Yes, as long as the ground is not completely frozen solid. Contractors prefer late winter because their schedules are wide open and stone materials are easier to source.

Is gas or wood cheaper for a stone fire pit?

Wood-burning is significantly cheaper to install because you do not need to hire a licensed plumber to run a gas line. A gas line can easily add $1,000 or more to your overall budget.

Do I need a permit for a backyard fire pit?

It depends entirely on your local town rules and HOA guidelines. Some areas require a minimum distance from your house or property line, so check these rules before buying materials.

How do I avoid interest on the Citi Simplicity card?

You must pay off the entire balance before the 18-month promotional window closes. Setting up an autopay of $194.44 a month will clear a $3,500 budget safely in time.