Buzz
Outdoor fireplaces can transform your home's outdoor space, providing both aesthetic beauty and practical functionality. However, building outdoor fireplaces requires careful consideration even before you start construction, especially if you plan to create one from scratch. To ensure the longevity and success of your outdoor fireplace project, adhere to these essential guidelines.
Key Steps
Planning the Fundamentals
Define the purpose of your outdoor fireplace. The reasons for building an outdoor hearth can vary, but it's crucial to contemplate certain factors to ensure the success of your project.
- Ambiance: Fireplaces can set the mood. A cozy open hearth creates an intimate setting for small gatherings, while a fireplace with two open ends can accommodate larger parties. Alternatively, a fire pit offers views from all angles and the ambiance of a campfire.
- Functionality: You may opt for a fireplace that doubles as a barbecue or pizza oven, though these designs are more complex. Additionally, consider any electrical installations that may need to be concealed behind the fireplace, such as lighting or audio/visual cables.
Explore Hearth Design Options. Many homeowners choose to coordinate the stonework of their fireplace with that of their home, though it's not obligatory. Brick offers a traditional stone appearance, while manufactured stacked stone lends a more modern touch. If stone doesn't suit your taste, stucco is another popular choice.
Determine Fireplace Dimensions. The size of your fireplace should harmonize with its surroundings. Decide whether you want the fireplace to be the focal point of your backyard or to complement an already stunning view.
- Strive for balanced proportions in your fireplace design. Avoid overshadowing your home's size with an overly large fireplace, but also ensure it doesn't appear dwarfed by your house.
- Position the fireplace in its own area to create an additional 'room' in your outdoor living space. Leave ample space in front for gatherings with family and friends.
Consider Wood-Burning Fireplaces. Outdoor fireplaces are typically either wood-burning or gas-fueled. Wood-burning fireplaces provide the allure of a natural fire but often necessitate a building permit. Consult your local government regarding setback restrictions, chimney requirements, and other regulations. After receiving a permit, your city will inspect the fireplace upon completion and authorize its use.
Engage a Professional for Gas Fireplace Installation. Gas fireplaces burn cooler and cleaner than wood-burning counterparts, producing minimal ash, embers, and smoke. Employ your gas supplier or a licensed contractor to connect the fireplace safely to your gas line.
- Adhere to local codes concerning gas piping specifications, as many jurisdictions mandate the use of black iron pipes rather than standard steel or galvanized materials.
Choosing the Right Design
Opt for a Fireplace Kit for Simplicity and Efficiency. Fireplace kits come in a wide range of styles and complexities, catering to various budgets and preferences. Whether you're on a tight budget or aiming for luxury, there's a kit for you.
Consider Custom Designs for Experienced Builders. Experienced builders can explore custom designs beyond fireplace kits. Utilize sturdy materials like cinder blocks for the structure and customize the design to suit your preferences. When choosing a design, focus on the base, firebox, and chimney or vents.
Enhance the Fireplace Area with Additional Features. Think beyond a simple hearth and consider adding built-in seating or wood storage to maximize the functionality and charm of your outdoor fireplace.
Constructing the Fireplace
Prepare the Foundation with Concrete. Begin by digging a trench and compacting the soil for the foundation. Pour and allow the concrete to set for at least 24 hours before proceeding with the construction.
Apply mortar to the foundation and start laying concrete or cinder blocks. Ensure each row is level and follow the building plans meticulously. When using cinder blocks, apply mortar between each row and individual blocks.
Install fire bricks in the firebox if required. Pay attention to laying a pleasing pattern and using the correct mortar. Mix the mortar with high-temperature mortar for durability against fire heat. Cut bricks as needed for corners and edges.
Eliminate air bubbles from the fire brick mortar using a jointer and brush. Pack mortar into each seam with a jointer, then remove excess mortar with a brush. Allow the firebox to dry for at least 24 hours.
Build or add a chimney for wood-burning fireplaces. Construct the chimney according to precise specifications for proper smoke draw. Ensure compliance with local building codes and follow typical standards for chimney dimensions and placement.
Install the spark arrestor. Exclusive to wood-burning fireplaces, spark arrestors capture embers from the hearth to enhance safety.
Set up the hearthstone. Position the hearthstone, ensuring it meets safety requirements and extends adequately in front of and on the sides of the firebox. Use mortar to secure it in place.
Choose a stone style for the veneer. Apply mortar to the back of the stones and affix them to the cinder blocks. Utilize spacers to maintain even spacing between stones and fill gaps with mortar.
Connect your gas-burning fireplace to the gas line. Prepare to connect the gas line to your fireplace by following proper procedures, including sealing connections and testing for leaks.
Completion. Enhance your home and backyard with the addition of an outdoor fireplace. Appreciate the value it adds to your property!
Tips
- Consider opting for a fireplace kit to streamline the construction process. These kits provide modular designs, comprehensive instruction manuals, and can be assembled within a few days. They also adhere to important chimney and firebox specifications. Stone finishing may need to be purchased separately.
- Consult your local planning and zoning board regarding regulations on chimney placement. Typically, chimneys should be at least 2 ft (0.6 m) higher and no less than 10 ft (3 m) away from neighboring structures. Additionally, you may require a spark arrestor at the chimney's top.
Warnings
- Be mindful of the dangers of using outdoor fireplaces on hot, dry days. Contact the local fire department to inquire about burning restrictions.
Things You'll Need
- Detailed construction plan
- Masonry materials, including stone finishing, bricks, concrete blocks, and ceramic bricks for the firebox
- Fire-retardant grout
- Hand trowel
- Mortar mix
- Carpenter's level
- Duct or pipe for the flue
- Wheelbarrow
- Clay tile for flue liner
- Metal grate for holding wood in the hearth
- Pre-fabricated metal damper
- Screened flue cap
