I don't know if the manufacturer fixed the difficulty to assemble (as noted in bad review),or what,but the assembly was easy...it took me twenty minutes. The fire pit is sturdy, beautiful, and does its job perfectly.I suggest not buying a firepit if you dont have an awning to protect it from rain and snow.That or buy and use the cover for 15 bucks. Thats just common sense though. I dont leave my car windows down for the same reason. If you are looking for a firepit at a great price, that is beautiful,and easy to assemble...this is it!