How to Build a Backyard Firepit Base with 10mm Rundle Rock

Product	Quantity (10' × 10')	Purpose	Shop Online
10mm Rundle Rock	1 cubic yard	Base material and finished surface	Link to Product
Landscape Fabric	120 sq. ft.	Weed barrier	Link to Product
Landscape Pins	20–30	Secure landscape fabric	Link to Product
Plastic or Metal Edge Restraints	Approximately 40 linear ft.	Keeps the gravel contained and creates clean, defined edges	Link to Product
Landscape Rake	1	Level material	Link to Product
Hand Tamper	1	Compact the base	Link to Product
Firepit	1	Complete the project	Link to Product

Need a different quantity? Use our Volume Calculator or contact our team for assistance.

Before You Start

Before beginning your project:

• Call before you dig to locate underground utilities.
• Measure your firepit area.
• Choose a level location with adequate clearance from buildings, fences and trees.
• Decide whether you'd like a square, rectangular or circular firepit area before installing edge restraints.
• Gather all required tools and materials before starting.

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Step 1: Excavate the Area

Remove the sod and topsoil, excavating the area approximately 3–4 inches deep.

Creating space for your gravel base helps improve drainage while providing a stable foundation for your firepit.

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Step 2: Level the Ground

Using a landscape rake, level the excavated surface.

Starting with an even base makes the remaining installation much easier and produces a cleaner finished appearance.

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Step 3: Install Landscape Fabric

Lay landscape fabric across the excavated area and secure it using landscape pins.

Landscape fabric separates the gravel from the soil below, helping reduce weed growth while keeping the decorative rock cleaner over time.

Recommended Products

• Landscape Fabric
• Landscape Pins

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Step 4: Install Edge Restraints

Install plastic or metal edge restraints around the perimeter of your firepit area before adding the decorative rock.

Edge restraints help contain the gravel, maintain clean lines, and prevent material from spreading into the surrounding lawn or landscape beds. They can be installed in straight lines or smooth curves to suit your design.

Secure the edging according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving to the next step.

Recommended Product

• Plastic or Metal Edge Restraints

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Step 5: Install the 10mm Rundle Rock

Spread approximately one cubic yard of 10mm Rundle Rock evenly across the area.

Rake the material smooth before compacting it thoroughly using a hand tamper.

10mm Rundle Rock contains fine Rundle sand, allowing it to compact into a firm, stable surface while maintaining its attractive dark charcoal appearance.

Recommended Product

• 10mm Rundle Rock

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Step 6: Position Your Firepit

Measure and mark the centre of the area before positioning your firepit.

Taking a few extra minutes to centre the firepit creates a more balanced finished project and leaves equal room for seating around the perimeter.

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Step 7: Finish the Surface

Once your firepit is in place, add a light finishing layer of 10mm Rundle Rock around the firepit and rake smooth.

This final touch creates a clean, professional appearance while covering footprints left during installation.

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Material Estimate

Planning a 10 ft × 10 ft firepit area? You'll need approximately:

• 1 cubic yard of 10mm Rundle Rock
• 120 sq. ft. of Landscape Fabric
• 20–30 Landscape Pins
• 40 linear ft. of Plastic or Metal Edge Restraints
• Landscape Rake
• Hand Tamper
• Firepit of your choice

Need help estimating another project size? Contact our team or use our online Volume Calculator.

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Why Use Edge Restraints?

Edge restraints are one of the simplest ways to improve the longevity and appearance of your firepit area.

Benefits include:

• Keeps decorative rock neatly contained
• Creates clean, professional-looking borders
• Helps maintain the original shape of your project
• Suitable for straight edges and curved designs
• Available in both plastic and metal options

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Why Choose 10mm Rundle Rock?

10mm Rundle Rock is one of Alberta's most popular decorative aggregates for hardscape projects.

Its combination of angular stone and fine Rundle sand creates excellent compaction while maintaining a beautiful charcoal finish that complements both modern and traditional landscapes.

Ideal applications include:

• Firepit areas
• Garden pathways
• Flagstone patios
• Decorative landscape beds
• Seating areas

Benefits:

• Excellent compaction
• Attractive charcoal colour
• Natural drainage
• Low maintenance
• Locally sourced Alberta aggregate

Other Material Options

While this guide features 10mm Rundle Rock, several other aggregates can also be used depending on the look and function you're after.

• 10mm Washed Rock – A lighter decorative aggregate that provides excellent drainage and creates a clean, natural appearance around your firepit.
• 10mm Limestone – A compacting decorative aggregate with a light grey finish, ideal for brightening outdoor spaces.

Not sure which aggregate is right for your project? Visit CLS Landscape Supply or speak with our team. We'll help you choose the best material based on your design preferences, intended use, and maintenance requirements.

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Pro Tip

Install your edge restraints before placing the decorative rock. This creates a defined perimeter that makes levelling and finishing the project much easier while helping keep your gravel in place for years to come.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How deep should I excavate for a gravel firepit?

For a standard residential firepit area, excavate approximately 3–4 inches before installing and compacting your gravel base.

Do I need edge restraints?

While not required, edge restraints are highly recommended. They help contain the gravel, create a cleaner finished appearance, and reduce ongoing maintenance.

How much 10mm Rundle Rock do I need?

A 10 ft × 10 ft firepit area requires approximately one cubic yard of 10mm Rundle Rock.

Do I need landscape fabric?

Yes. Landscape fabric helps reduce weed growth and prevents the gravel from mixing with the underlying soil, making your firepit area easier to maintain.

Can I use 10mm Rundle Rock for other projects?

Absolutely. It's also ideal for pathways, flagstone patios, decorative landscaping, and other hardscape applications.