There’s nothing like gathering around a fire with your friends and family on a chilly evening. The right outdoor fireplace warms an outdoor area and is a gathering spot to make lasting memories. If you’ve been considering getting an outdoor fireplace, here are some ideas to help you get started.
4 Outdoor Fireplace Ideas
Outdoor fireplaces come in many shapes, sizes, and materials. Most homeowners want one that fits the style of their home and is compatible with their outdoor space. Style compatibility affects your design choice, the materials you choose, and the size and placement of the outdoor fireplace. Here are a few styles to consider.
#1 Traditional Outdoor Fireplaces
A traditional outdoor fireplace made of brick or stone can work well with a home that has exterior brick or stone elements. Matching the elements and tones in your fireplace to your home’s exterior helps create a cohesive look. Traditional materials like brick or stone are also a great option for homeowners seeking a classic wood-burning fireplace. If the masonry is sound, stone or brick fireplaces generally won't require much maintenance. If you choose this option, consider having a professional check your fireplace once a year to keep it in good shape.
#2 Modern Outdoor Fireplaces
A modern, minimal outdoor fireplace can complement a home with a clean, modern look. Combine materials like stucco, stone, or concrete with a pared-back, sleek design. A gas fireplace is relatively low-maintenance option that suits the look and feel of a contemporary home. It also helps keep your patio warm and inviting well after the summer months. Apart from general masonry checks and regular cleaning, these fireplaces don’t usually require much upkeep.
#3 Sustainable Outdoor Fireplaces
Homeowners seeking sustainability might consider gas or electric fireplaces. If these aren't for you, other sustainable fuel options, such as ethanol or wood pellets, produce less smoke and ash. As for exterior materials, explore locally sourced stone, sustainably sourced wood, or recycled metal.
#4 Customized Outdoor Fireplaces
If your home incorporates some unique design elements that are difficult to replicate, you might check into an outdoor fireplace built to your specifications. You can choose from many materials, including steel, concrete, stone, and wood. Qualified contractors and designers can help you plan a custom fireplace that suits your needs.
Advantages of Outdoor Fireplaces
Building an outdoor fireplace may be a considerable undertaking, but it offers some excellent benefits.
Outdoor Fireplaces Can Add Character
An exterior feature like an outdoor fireplace adds visual interest to your home and helps it stand out. It also helps family and guests enjoy outdoor entertainment more.
Outdoor Fireplaces Increase Joy
Don’t underestimate a fire feature's role in making your home a fun and joyful place. Homeowners who added an outdoor fire feature reported a joy score of 9.7 out of 10 after finishing the project, according to the National Association of REALTORS® "2023 Remodeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features.”
Outdoor Fireplaces Can Beautify Your Space
An outdoor fireplace can be a great focal point in your outdoor patio, backyard, or deck. If you’ve long thought your patio lacked something special, a well-designed outdoor fireplace may give you the refresh you’ve been looking for.
Before You Build
Before deciding on the project, consider some of the issues and requirements.
Safety Matters
In most cases, outdoor fireplaces are a safe addition to your home. But if you have pets or young children, you’ll need to implement strict fire safety rules about keeping a safe distance from the fire. Make sure your outdoor fireplace is a safe distance from your home and other structures as required by the local code. And, before starting a fire, check with your local forest service office to find out about burn authorizations or fire restrictions.
Budget Concerns
When you compare the costs to other features like fire pits, building a fireplace can be pricey. The average cost to build a firepit is around $850, though the range is $200 to $5,000. By comparison, the average cost to build an outdoor fireplace is roughly $3,000, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $9000. Homeowners on a strict budget may want to consider an outdoor fire pit.
Maintenance Needs
While gas and electric fireplaces require professional attention, traditional wood fireplaces require regular cleaning. Even with a small outdoor fireplace, this can be time-consuming and tedious, especially if you have a busy life.
But what kinds of maintenance does an outdoor fireplace require? Take a look at the Cleaning and Maintenance section.
Placement Consideration
Your outdoor fireplace’s location will vary based on building codes in your area, so look up local requirements before starting work on your project. A good rule of thumb is your fireplace should be at least 10 to 15 feet away from your home, property line, and any other structures or flammable materials. You'll also want to place your outdoor fireplace so it doesn't face prevailing winds or obstruct any views.
Fuel Options
Many factors can influence fuel choice including your desire for convenience, your aesthetic preferences, and your budget. Consider the pros and cons of a few fuel options.
- Wood: Wood is the natural choice for anyone seeking a warm, traditional fireplace. However, a wood burning fireplace needs frequent cleaning, and some homeowners may not like the smell of woodsmoke.
- Gas: Natural gas is a clean and cost-efficient option offering a controlled burn. However, some home owners may find a gas flame less comforting and more sterile compared to wood options.
- Electricity: An electric fireplace often has a built-in heater that operates separately from the flames. This allows you to get the look of a roaring fire with or without the heat. Electric fireplaces are convenient and produce a different aesthetic and ambience than wood burning options.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and light care keep your outdoor fireplace neat and ready-for-use. Here are some important tips to bear in mind:
- Keep the fireplace clean by brushing away dust, ash, and other debris between uses.
- A wood-burning fireplace may require an annual professional cleaning and chimney inspection to function properly.
- Regularly check for potential problems like excessive smoke and ash buildup.
- Check your gas fireplace for fuel leaks and keep the gas valve turned off when the fireplace isn't in use.
- Certain materials may need extra care. For instance, an outdoor stone fireplace may require sealant.
Fire safety is also important with outdoor fireplaces. Here are some general guidelines homeowners should follow:
- Don't leave fires unattended.
- Understand your fireplace's ventilation system and have a professional check it if you suspect any problems.
- Be aware that any custom work must follow local fire safety codes and always keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Find Your Perfect Outdoor Fireplace
You can choose from many materials and outdoor fireplace designs. The perfect match can complement your home and landscaping to create a balanced and well-coordinated result. The right outdoor fireplace can transform your deck or patio and make the area more inviting and comfortable, and add character and personality to your outdoor space.
Look for an experienced contractor who uses high-quality materials and can match the outdoor fireplace to your vision while meeting local regulations and requirements.