Everything You Need to Know Before Building Your Own Outdoor Fireplace

Anyone who has enjoyed the pleasure of warming themselves in front of a campfire on a cool evening knows why outdoor fireplaces have exploded in popularity. Outdoor fireplaces come in a variety of styles and sizes, and there is an outdoor fireplace for everyone. However, unless you are a serious do-it-yourselfer with great skills, I suggest you find one that is prefabricated. Be aware that the actual design and construction of the firebox, smoke chamber, flue and chimney is a precise science, not speculation. If you do not size all of the components correctly, the fireplace will not burn properly and it may send immense clouds of smoke towards you and your family.

When looking to build an outdoor fireplace, you first need to determine your most important need. If warmth is what you are looking for, I would recommend an outdoor fireplace that resembles a traditional campfire. This style will allow many people to gather around and bask in the radiant heat that is sent out in all directions by the fire. Traditional fireplaces reflect heat in a small cone in front of the firebox, so only a few people can enjoy the warmth as they sit in front of the fire.

If appearance is more important to you than warmth, there are many gorgeous outdoor fireplace styles to choose from. Keep in mind that the design and material should complement your home. Also, don’t forget to use creativity. For example, you could add a mantel and little niches for candles to create a unique ambiance. Remember, it’s going to be the location where you unwind after a long day or spend time with your family and friends, so customize it to your liking. Also, for a nice effect, locate the outdoor fireplace so you can see it from indoors.

There are also some precautions to take when you decide to build the outdoor fireplace. The important thing to do is check your local codes and laws, as some municipalities have real concerns about outdoor air quality. Traditional wood-burning fires can create air pollution problems when certain weather conditions create an inversion which traps smoke particles in the air. If local laws prohibit wood-burning fireplaces, look for approved models that may be fueled with natural gas or propane. A good example of a natural gas fireplace is the Weber 27001 Flame Outdoor Natural Gas Fireplace. It has gotten great reviews, and is sure to create the perfect atmosphere outside any home.