Hear from Our Customers
Your fire pit becomes the heart of your outdoor space where family dinners extend into evening conversations and weekend gatherings create lasting memories. No more rushing inside when temperatures drop or limiting outdoor entertaining to summer months.
With proper installation designed for Long Island’s sandy soil and coastal conditions, you get a fire feature that works beautifully season after season. Your investment pays off in increased home value, extended outdoor living time, and countless nights of warmth and connection right in your own backyard.
Stone Escapes brings over 15 years of masonry expertise to Gordon Heights, understanding exactly what it takes to build fire pits that thrive in our local conditions. Owner Iain Traynor personally handles every estimate and oversees each installation, bringing union masonry training and specialized Long Island experience to your project.
We’re licensed in Suffolk County and hold certifications from Cambridge, Techo-Bloc, Unilock, and other leading manufacturers. Our work has been featured in Cambridge Pavingstone publications, and most of our customers come from referrals of neighbors who love their outdoor spaces.
We start with an in-person consultation where Iain evaluates your space, discusses your vision, and explains how we’ll address Gordon Heights’ specific soil and drainage challenges. Every fire pit requires different solutions based on your property’s unique conditions.
Our installation begins with excavation 8-10 inches deep, followed by proper base preparation and drainage planning designed for Long Island’s sandy soil and coastal moisture. We install edge restraints and use manufacturer-certified materials that handle freeze-thaw cycles without shifting or cracking.
The final step involves precise stone placement, gas line connections if needed, and a thorough walkthrough so you understand exactly how to safely enjoy your new fire pit for years to come.
Ready to get started?
Every fire pit we install addresses Gordon Heights’ specific environmental challenges. Our foundation work accounts for sandy soil that can shift, while our drainage systems prevent water accumulation that leads to mosquito problems and structural damage.
We use materials specifically chosen for coastal conditions – stones and mortars that resist salt air corrosion and temperature fluctuations. Gas lines are properly buried and protected, while wood-burning designs include proper ventilation for safety and efficiency.
Your installation includes manufacturer warranties on materials and our guarantee on workmanship. We handle all permits and ensure your fire pit meets Suffolk County safety regulations while creating the perfect gathering space for your family’s needs.
Sandy soil actually provides natural drainage advantages, but we still install proper drainage systems to prevent water accumulation during heavy rains. We excavate 8-10 inches deep and create a gravel base with drainage channels that direct water away from the fire pit.
For Gordon Heights properties, we often install perforated drain pipes wrapped in landscape fabric, covered with gravel, and sloped away from the pit. This prevents the standing water that creates mosquito breeding grounds and protects your fire pit’s foundation from settling or shifting over time.
Gas fire pits offer instant ignition, consistent heat, and no cleanup – perfect for Long Island’s unpredictable weather when you want immediate warmth. They’re also safer in windy coastal conditions since there are no flying embers, and many Suffolk County areas have restrictions on wood burning.
Wood-burning pits provide that authentic campfire experience with crackling sounds and wood smoke aroma that many families love. However, they require more maintenance, produce ash that needs disposal, and can be affected by wind conditions common near the coast.
We help you choose based on your family’s preferences, local regulations, and how you plan to use your outdoor space throughout the year.
Most fire pit installations take 2-3 days depending on size, complexity, and weather conditions. Day one involves excavation, base preparation, and drainage installation. Day two focuses on stone placement and structural work, while day three handles finishing touches and gas connections if applicable.
Weather can affect timing since we won’t pour concrete or install certain materials in freezing temperatures or heavy rain. We’ll always communicate any delays and adjust schedules to ensure quality installation rather than rushing through critical steps.
Your project timeline also depends on permit approvals and material delivery, which we coordinate in advance to minimize delays once work begins.
Suffolk County requires permits for most permanent fire pit installations, especially those involving gas lines or structures over certain sizes. We handle all permit applications and ensure your installation meets local building codes and safety requirements.
The permit process typically takes 1-2 weeks and covers structural requirements, gas line safety, and proper distances from property lines and structures. We include permit costs in our estimates so there are no surprise fees.
Some portable fire pits don’t require permits, but permanent installations with stone surrounds, built-in seating, or gas connections always need proper approvals to ensure safety and protect your home’s insurance coverage.
We use natural stone and manufactured materials specifically rated for coastal environments with salt air exposure and freeze-thaw cycles. Cambridge, Techo-Bloc, and Unilock pavers are excellent choices because they’re engineered to resist moisture penetration and temperature changes.
For mortar and concrete work, we use additives that improve freeze-thaw resistance and prevent cracking during Long Island’s temperature swings. All metal components receive marine-grade coatings or are made from stainless steel to prevent corrosion from salt air.
The key is using materials that work together as a system – from the drainage gravel up to the cap stones – so your fire pit maintains its structural integrity and appearance for decades, not just a few seasons.
Fire pit installation costs vary significantly based on size, materials, complexity, and whether you choose gas or wood-burning options. Basic wood-burning pits with simple stone surrounds typically start around $3,000-5,000, while elaborate gas fire pits with built-in seating and custom stonework can range $8,000-15,000 or more.
Factors affecting cost include excavation requirements, drainage complexity, gas line installation, permit fees, and material choices. Gordon Heights’ soil conditions usually don’t require expensive foundation work, which helps control costs compared to areas with challenging ground conditions.
We provide detailed written estimates that break down all costs including materials, labor, permits, and any site-specific requirements. This way you understand exactly what you’re investing in and can make informed decisions about features and materials that fit your budget and goals.
Local Resources
