3 Things to Consider When Buying an Outdoor Fireplace

Maybe you want to keep the party going after the sun goes down. Or, you want a gathering place for your family to talk and your kids to roast marshmallows on summer nights. Whatever the reason, you’ve decided to take the plunge and purchase an outdoor fireplace for your home. But before you go out and buy the first one that catches your attention, there are some things to take in to consideration.

1.    Fuel Options

If you’re looking for the authentic feel of a campfire, complete with smoke and crackling wood, a wood-burning fireplace may be the right choice. Wood-burning fireplaces are usually easy to install and give off a natural ambiance. However, depending on where you live, you may only be able to light a wood fireplace during certain times of the year and they can give off a lot of smoke. Gas fueled fireplaces are smoke free and typically safer than wood. But, gas fireplaces require either a propane tank or a pipeline to your home’s gas line, and can take much more work to install.

2.    Material

What material you choose for your fireplace can be based off your personal taste. Stucco is the least expensive and comes in a variety of colors. It will give your fireplace a southwestern feel. Stone, either manmade or manufactured, give a natural look with earthy tones, but can be time consuming and expensive to install. Brick will give a classic look to your fireplace and is extremely durable. Concrete gives you dozens of options, in both color and texture, as it can be used to mimic almost any natural material. 

3.    Placement

Perhaps the most important thing to consider when buying an outdoor fireplace is where you’re going to install it. Its location will impact how often it gets used, along with the overall ambience of your yard. Wind direction should also be a factor in your decision; a fireplace in direct wind can be hazardous to the surround greenery. Also, remember to choose a space that has room for your patio furniture. The best part of owning an outdoor fireplace is being able to sit around it and enjoy the flames.

Remember to check your local and state laws regarding outdoor fireplaces before installing one. If you have questions or just want to check out the options available, stop by Fireside Home Solutionsor schedule a free in home consultation today.