Building an outdoor fireplace

[FlamingAnn]

Hey all, this is my first post here. I am from Canada and as you guys know it's winter here at the moment. But we have already made plans for spring and building an outdoor fireplace is one among them. We have a decent sized backyard at our home and we want to convert that space to a place where we can have some fun family time. I am not an expert on fireplaces so I need clarifications on a few things. I was thinking of a real wood fireplace but many told me that it is better to use wood burning inserts as they are more efficient. But would they be ideal for an outdoor fireplace? Or are they only used indoors? I would also like to know about which materials would be suitable for building the fireplace. Please come up with your suggestions. Thanks in advance.

 

[begreen]

Outdoors fireplaces will last longest if build out of masonry or stone. Steel oxidation is accelerated by heat. That is not good when combined with a wet environment.

 

[jb6l6gc]

I was thinking of a real wood fireplace but many told me that it is better to use wood burning inserts as they are more efficient

Efficiency is not of any importance to an outdoor unit. Efficiency only really matters when you are using it for indoor heat. If you google outdoor fireplace you will see many styles, Im sure there are many plans online too. If I was building one which im sure I will do at some point if I can ever finish all the other home improvments I have to do it would be something like the one I attached.

 

[StihlKicking]

Here is a picture of mine. Use which ever masonry you like and as stated above don't worry with an insert or stove.

 

[Auzzie Gumtree]

if i was to build one i would try and incorporate a pizza oven into it Yum!!

 

[mellow]

I would check your local regulations (they seem to change everyday) and make sure an outdoor fireplace is still permitted and see if you need to get a local permit to install one. If it is allowed then you can go from a basic burn pit to a crazy monstrosity with a pizza oven and grill built in with heated benches

 

[jb6l6gc]

If op's in a rural setting with a bit of land I would just go for it! In my area I'm allowed a 1meter square active fire with no need for a permit.

 

[Auzzie Gumtree]

built in with heated benches

Now thats what I'm talking about

 

[heavy hammer]

Masonry chimney, just like the ones built in people's houses. They do make kits already made for the firebox, but it is still built like a normal chimney. I built a couple when I was a bricklayer, the only difference I ever saw was is that they don't need a smoke chamber like the ones inside.

 

[tomorin]

The materials that you normally use to build outdoor fireplaces are brick,stucco and stone. Based on what style you would like to build the fireplace you can choose the materials and start building. Brick is the most commonly used outdoor material, it works well with mid century landscape designs. Stucco can be used for heritage as well as modern designs. Stucco unlike brick has a wide variety of colors but remember the more smoother the stucco finish becomes the harder it will be to build the fireplace but not to worry just make sure that you get good professional help when you are building the fireplace. Stones come in a variety of designs. You can choose a rough stone for a more rugged look. If you are looking for a smoother finish you could choose a natural stone and cut it into regular shapes and designs to match your needs. I had my outdoor fireplace build by infinty garden(http://infinitygardens.ca/residential/services/outdoor-fireplaces-construction-services). I had mine built brick-style in my backyard. It looks really great and it is a great treat during the weekends

 

[FlamingAnn]

Thanks for the responses guys, I know it's been a while but I was caught up with some problems. We couldn't have the fireplace last winter but we'll have it this time for sure even before winter sets in. So thanks again for the contributions.

 

[webby3650]

There are also prefabricated fireplaces made from stainless steel and utilize a metal chimney. They come in quit a bit cheaper than a full masonry fireplace. We install them on a regular basis.
http://www.decorprice.com/majestic-...ractory.html?gclid=CKCoqPT7gc0CFQeraQodF5UFmg