DIY and Repair Guides

If you have a fireplace in the house, why not build an outdoor fireplace for your outdoor kitchen too? By having one installed, you will have an added attraction for your home.

Required Tools and Materials

Paint
Cinder blocks
Bricks
Fireplace kit (optional)
Fireplace screen
Firewood
Stones

Picking the Location

Just to be safe, you should install the fireplace several feet away from power outlets and trees. In general, avoid placing the structure near objects that could ignite in case of an accident.

The ground should be flat to make construction easier. Don’t pick a spot that’s too breezy, but there should be some air so the smell doesn’t get too concentrated in a specific area.

Add the Cinder Blocks

Set the cinder blocks in their proper position. If you bought a fireplace kit, put it on top of the cinder blocks. If not, build an outdoor fireplace by deciding on the chimney height and the opening first.

Keep the chimney opening low to the ground. This will help in the draft. At the same time it prevents strong winds from killing the fire. Its height should be as high as is practically possible. A chimney pot should be installed if the fireplace is high. For practical reasons, it is much better to have a low fireplace.

Decorating the Outdoor Fireplace

After the basic setup is finished, try it out. If it works, you can proceed to decorate it. Put some bricks around the fireplace. Some of those who build an outdoor fireplace prefer to use cinder blocks instead.

When decorating the fireplace, look at the rock / cement colors you’re using. You can go for a terracotta look, grays or a combination of both.

Install the fireplace screen. There are many types sold, so follow the instructions for the product you bought. You can also add the firewood now; this can be for immediate or later use.

Note on the dimensions: some of the outdoor fireplaces in stores measure 33” (interior fireplace) or 37” (exterior fireplace). You don’t need to make your fireplace the same size, but it helps to know what dimensions are used by some manufacturers.

Tips and Warnings

Before you build an outdoor fireplace, inspect the surroundings carefully. You need to make sure that the area is safe for building. While the screen is optional, it is strongly suggested you use it. It is the primary defense against any flare ups or accidents.

When testing the fireplace, have some buckets of water or fire extinguisher nearby. Avoid getting too close to the flames. Do not allow inexperienced people to start the fire in the fireplace.

Check with the local government officials about outdoor safety rules and regulations. Consult the homeowners’ association too. Depending on your location, restrictions on fireplace use may be in effect.

The easiest way to build an outdoor fireplace is by buying a pre-built unit and just work on the platforms. If you want to build one from scratch, pay close attention to the chimney and other aspects mentioned earlier.

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