Planning an outdoor fireplace requires keeping in mind several considerations. While an indoor fireplace is meant for relaxation, it is the focal point of your backyard, perfect for entertainment. Therefore, let’s discuss some important tips that will help you plan an outdoor fireplace with your masonry contractor.
The Purpose
The first thing you want to consider when planning an outdoor fireplace is the purpose. As mentioned earlier, outdoor fireplaces are usually meant for entertainment. This means that you will have to opt for comfortable seats and tables that can easily seat a large number of people. At the same time, you should also think about the environment you wish to create.
Furthermore, you might also want to consider waterfalls, flowers, fountains, etc. surrounding the fireplace that keeps the surroundings not only visually appealing but also soothing. Plus, you can choose outdoor lighting as well but make sure that it does not take the attention away from the fireplace.
Utilities Of An Outdoor Fireplace
Outdoor fireplaces require propane or wood to produce heat and can be installed anywhere in the backyard. Plus, an outdoor fireplace that runs on wood is not only cheaper but also produces more heat as compared to a gas outdoor fireplace. These are mostly permanent structures that do not need utility connections.
However, if you are planning a wood outdoor fireplace, you should keep in mind that you would have to build a chimney as well along with a draft that allows the wood to burn properly. At the same time, you can only burn dry wood. Wood containing moisture will burn less and produce more smoke, which can create an uncomfortable environment.
Best Materials For Building An Outdoor Fireplace
The key to building the ideal outdoor fireplace is that it should complement the surrounding objects and the architectural style of your house. You can use materials like brick, stone, concrete, etc. that are non-combustible materials. However, the total cost of the outdoor fireplace will depend on the materials selected and the amount of labor required.
Since outdoor fireplaces are permanent, you need to make sure that the materials used last for years to come and do not crack or fade away within a few years.
Choose The Right Location
Although an outdoor fireplace could be installed anywhere in the backyard, but you have to consider the safety aspect as well. Most outdoor fireplaces tend to be close to the house for convenience but should not be a hazard. If you tend to have a small backyard, the fireplace could be attached to the patio, deck, or the house. This will allow the landscape to be your backyard’s focal point.
However, in case you have a large yard, you can build an outdoor fireplace that is separate from the rest of the house. This will allow the fireplace to become a focal point of the outdoor setting.
Size And Shape Of The Outdoor Fireplace
Some people have a sufficient amount of space in their backyard but still, they get it wrong when it comes to an outdoor fireplace. The reason is that they are not able to utilize and carefully plan out the size and shape of their fireplace. This not only ends up wasting the space but also the huge amount of money that goes into the process.
If you plan on entertaining a large number of people on weekends, you should go for a large fireplace that comfortably sits in your backyard. However, if the guest list is relatively smaller, you should opt for a smaller fireplace even if there is enough space available. In simple words, effective and efficient utilization of the space available is perhaps the only way to balance entertainment and visual appeal.
And finally, also keep in mind any additional accessories that you might have thought of. Ignoring them might lead to the contractor digging newly built areas that will increase the overall costs.
Final Word
Building a fireplace is not rocket science considering the tips mentioned above. You need to plan the size, design, type, and select the correct materials along with the location and the right outdoor fireplace builder Long Island. Once it’s built, make sure to maintain it so that it gets to keep its brand-new shine and everlasting visual appeal.
