Warm Up Your Backyard This Autumn With a Custom Installed Outdoor Fireplace, Fire Pit, or Fire Bowl!

There is nothing like spending a peaceful evening out on the patio with your family and friends. But even the most beautiful nights can have a chill. Don't let the temperature drive you away - take back your backyard with an outdoor fireplace!

Outdoor fireplaces are really popular, and there are thousands of different ones available to suit your needs. The easiest way to view all the options available to you is to browse all your favorite online retailers, but your local home improvement store may also have them in stock for you to view in real life.


An outdoor fireplace exists to match or complement any Décor. Metal and masonry are the most common materials because they are very effective at containing the heat and directing it safely where you want it.

Outdoor fireplaces are built in many different ways, and you can choose the style that best suits your needs and your space. Many of these styles are available in both gas- or wood-burning varieties depending on what you'd prefer.

Fireplace Styles
Some outdoor fireplaces are built to mimic the look of traditional indoor fireplaces. Rectangular ones, just like the one under the mantle inside your home, create a beautiful centerpiece for your outdoor space, and are available in many colors and styles. They do tend to be on the large and expensive side, though, so be sure that it will fit in your space and in your budget.

Another option is the chimenea. These are traditionally made from clay, but many metal options are available as well. These gourd-shaped fireplaces can be ornately decorated or simple and clean. Clay models lend a rustic charm to their space, while metal ones add a modern twist.

Your needs may be better served by a smaller model designed for in-the-round use. These models tend to be close to the ground and can be seen and talked over easily. You and your guests can gather around the fire and enjoy the warmth together with this style. The firehouse style is a square or round pedestal with a screen-like "house" over it to contain the ashes and protect passersby. These can be simple or ornate and are generally made of metal. Another style that has gained in popularity in recent years is the fire bowl. Usually made of metal (shiny copper is an impressive choice), these shallow bowls may also have a protective screen over the top.

Safety
You must remember that this is an open flame, and take all necessary precautions, of course. Your fireplace should not be located underneath any kind of upper balcony or other unvented structure to avoid heat damage. (A pergola is probably safe, but check with your contractor first.) Your fireplace must also be located on firm ground, preferably with a non-flammable floor underneath it. You can have a brick or concrete deck installed just for your fireplace.

Outdoor fireplaces, especially larger models or those that depend on propane gas, should always be installed by a professional to ensure everyone's safety. You don't want your expensive outdoor mantle to fall over, or a gas leak to endanger your loved ones, after all!

Finally, after your fireplace has been installed, make sure to take the precaution of having a fire extinguisher available nearby. If there are any children in the house, they should be warned about the fire and never left unattended.
Selecting and purchasing an outdoor fireplace is a fun process and a great treat for your family. Installation should only take a few hours and you will be enjoying your new fireplace in no time!