Each block measures 17.5 inches x 17.5 inches x 24.5 inches.
Yes, it is easy to convert this into a propane or natural gas burning fire feature. Look up EasyFirePits and check out their Gas Kits and Burners made of Marine Grade Stainless Steel. Straight forward parts that connect together in minutes! Also a lot of tips and tricks as well as Q&A for the DIY conversion process.
A couple of reasons for that. The first is that the freight is built into that kit. When purchasing from Home Depot, the freight is prorated over the all of the pallets on a truck. Also, the cost of handling on the back end. The guys at the plant break down the pallets and re-palletize into the kits so it’s handled multiple times. Kits just make it more simple on the front end. Thank you for your inquiry!
The kits do not come assembled. Here is the link to the layer by layer instruction under info and guides for this kit http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/pdfImages/d7/d7f28a6a-cec2-45d3-afa8-068ac0b55992.pdf
Detailed assembly instructions can be located under "info & guides" on the product page.
I would start at the bottom and work your way up to the top.