Constructing an outdoor fireplace or fire pit creates an inviting environment for families and friends to gather. These structures turn your backyard into an outdoor living space which is an extension of your interior living space. Covered porches and screened porches make excellent locations for outdoor fireplaces, while patios make great locations for fire pits and can be situated around the most scenic section of your yard.
Design is important when planning to build an outdoor fireplace or fire pit. Are you seeking a place to spend time with friends and family or a quiet place to relax with your special someone?
One option you can do is creating a fire pit in a circle large enough to accommodate the number of guests you will be entertaining on a regular basis. Position chairs around the fire pit where you and your guests can sit back and share stories and good times.
If you are looking for a more intimate setting, try using over-sized outdoor couches and chairs that seat two. This type of setting is more fitting for an outdoor fireplace but works well with a fire pit as well.
Fireplaces built outdoors are much like those built indoors. The chimney has to be tall enough to clear any roof lines by the appropriate setbacks and provide a strong draw. You should consider consulting a professional contractor before beginning construction, but there are some kits that can be purchased that can be installed by someone with minimal carpentry skills.
Fire pits can vary in size depending on your needs as stated above. Fire pits are built out of fire rated brick veneer over concrete block with a reinforced steel concrete footing. The floor of the fire pit is made out of fire rated brick with a sand base to allow easy leveling. You can add options like a gas fuel line can be added for igniting the fire and a plumbing drain line can be added for easy cleanup with a water hose.
There are also a lot of attractive metal fire pits which can be purchased from your favorite home store. These fire pits should be placed on a brick paver or concrete patio away from flammable material like decks and not situated under any roof overhangs.
Closing Comments
Whether you choose to build an outdoor fireplace or fire pit, you can be sure that it will provide you with many nights of enjoyment year round.