Outdoor Fireplaces Make Great Additions to Your Patio or Deck

If you like to take the warmth and ambience of your home outdoors consider installing a fireplace in your backyard or on your balcony.  Outdoor fireplaces can be as simple as a fire pit to an elaborate system encompassing a barbeque or outdoor grill with a fireplace.  We will tell you a little about the different types available.

Fire pits can be simply a ring of patio blocks with a grill over them or be raised pots over wrought iron or steel legs.  Let’s look at some of the newer versions of the fire pit - the fire bowl.  These outdoor fireplaces are portable, convenient and beautiful to look at.  If you like a look that is very modern the stainless and brushed steel finishes may fit the bill.  Copper finish is very traditional and weathers well outside.  These fire pits usually come complete with a removable screen so that embers do not fly at you.  Check that the log grate is heavy weight and allows for proper airflow.  Fire bowls are perfect for roasting marshmallows and hot dogs, without the fuss of starting the barbeque.

Another type of fire pit that is popular today is the cylindrical style of outdoor grill.  These fireplaces are portable and many have wheels so that you can move them around the garden or deck making it quick to set up your yard for entertaining. They have mesh side fire screens to contain the embers.  Most of these outdoor fireplaces have a porcelain coated enamel finish which aids in a longer lasting fire.

If you like a rustic, native look you will love one of our favorites, the chimenea style of fireplace.  This wood burning type of fireplace is made from terra cotta, powder coated steel, aluminum and cast iron.  Check with the manufacturer for instructions on curing the chimenea before using it for the first time. We recommend that you purchase a fire resistant mat to protect the surface of your deck from sparks and flying embers.  Screens are available for purchase for some models if not already included.  Clay chimeneas are both beautiful and functional and are often hand crafted by skilled artisans.  If you purchase a terra cotta or clay finish outdoor fireplace make sure you insulate the bowl of the chimenea with sand or gravel.

Also gaining popularity are traditional style fireplaces designed specifically for the outdoors.  They burn natural gas, gel or propane and have all the warmth of an indoor fireplace.  You can accent the surrounds with stone or brick finishing and usually have a choice of lava rock or fire logs.

Before you install an outdoor fireplace make sure you check the municipal fire code for your area.  Some towns do not allow outdoor fire pits that are not a specific size or are not closed in with fire guards.  As always do your homework before you purchase.

Cool summer evenings will never be the same once you install an outdoor fireplace. Entertaining is much more fun when you gather around a bonfire or grill.  Having a fire pit or chimenea on your patio or deck will enhance your home and extend your living area.