07 Apr 8 Things to Know Before Building an Outdoor Fireplace

Enhance your backyard with a warm, inviting outdoor fireplace. This home improvement add-on brings value to your home, creates a cozy gathering spot and upgrades your outdoor space with visual appeal. Outdoor fireplaces add instant resale value to your home. If you’re thinking about selling your home, building an outdoor fireplace and creating a cozy outdoor setting can help boost interest.

When building an outdoor fireplace, you also have the option to match your home, pool deck, patio or any other structure in your yard. You can even choose from brick, stone and other materials to create almost any design. If you plan on building a backyard fireplace, here are a few things you should know before getting started.

1. Find the perfect spot for the fireplace in your backyard.
We can build fireplaces to fit most any space in your yard. If you have enough space to accommodate the fireplace and seating for guests, we can create a custom fireplace to fit the area. No matter if you want a fireplace attached to your home or out in the yard, our design consultant can help you visualize your concept.

2. Find a way to block the wind.
Wind gusts can quickly ruin an evening around the fireplace. If you choose to build a custom fireplace out in the yard, consider planting tall hedges to block the wind. You can even have a custom-built fence installed to block the wind and create additional visual appeal.

3. Choose fireplace design.
You have a few options when building an outdoor fireplace.  You are not limited to only a traditional-styled fireplace. You can opt for an open fire pit or a fire bowl if you choose. You can have a stone fireplace to match your patio or a brick fireplace to complement your home. Feel free to browse our gallery for more fireplace design ideas for your backyard space.

4. Choose a wood burning fireplace or gas.
A gas fireplace has certain advantages over wood fireplaces, such as being more environmentally friendly. Both fireplaces have pros and cons, but it comes down to your personal choice and the local laws regarding open fires. No matter which fireplace you choose, we can create a custom-built fireplace that caters to your needs.

5. Determine the total cost.
The total cost depends on the materials you choose, the overall design and where you plan to install your fireplace. Custom-built fireplaces may cost more on average; however, they’re built to your specifications so that you get exactly what you want.

6. Additional features for your fireplace.
You’ve picked out the perfect place for your new fireplace, now what? When building a custom hearth, you can also consider adding built-in seating or a wood storage area. Both features will be created to match the overall design.

7. Learn fire safety.
Review important fire safety procedures to know what you should do during an emergency. Make sure to keep flammable seating at a safe distance from the open fire. In addition, add brick pavers to prevent grass fires, and keep a fire extinguisher on hand in case of an emergency.

8. Keep it simple.
Even though building an outdoor fireplace might seem extravagant, it can still be affordable. Start simple; you can always expand your fireplace at a later date. Even the simplest fireplace design can draw attention and create an eye-catching focal point.

If you can envision your backyard fireplace, let us help you make it a reality. Just give us a call at 407-847-9322 and let us work with you on creating a beautiful outdoor fireplace that you can enjoy for years.