If you entertain friends and family often in your back yard or on your deck, in addition to a barbeque grill you may want to think about installing an outdoor fireplace. These are a striking addition to any yard, and most can be assembled in a weekend. The easiest way to do this is to purchase one of several available outdoor fireplace kits.
Outdoor fireplaces can be made out of one of the following materials: stucco, stone, faux stone, or brick. Some are built piece-by-piece from the ground up while others are modular in construction, allowing even beginners to construct a structurally sound fireplace. They can also be build specifically to cook pizza or bread or as a fire pit.
The type of outdoor fireplace designs available is varied, and the one you choose will depend upon how much space you have and your level of expertise as far as construction is concerned. Smaller models often used as fire pits can be three or four feet in diameter, while larger oven-type units can be several feet wide and even extend further if additional workspace is needed. Carefully measure your intended construction spot and develop a budget before you begin to comparison shop.
These kits can range in price from less than a hundred dollars for a very basic fireplace that is easy to assemble to fairly expensive, large oven-style models that can help you cook for a crowd. Keep in mind what you are intending to do with your fireplace, is it just to offer warmth and perhaps roast marshmallows on or are you intending on using it as an outdoor stove? Larger models can run several thousand dollars and require a longer time to assemble than smaller, less expensive kits.
Smaller kits usually will contain few parts and take minutes to put together. Occasionally attaching the legs and putting in grates is required, if it does not come preassembled or is all one piece. They can also usually be taken home in a pickup or SUV and not require a delivery charge.
Modular kits will usually contain the base for the fireplace, the chimney, and the firebox. Often the pieces are interlocking and of course, the kit comes with complete instructions for assembly. Modular designs also do not require mortar for construction.
Larger kits do use mortar, and may also need a bigger, stronger base than smaller models. Outdoor fireplace plans can be customized to your specific space and requirements. Kits are delivered on pallets to your door and will contain everything needed to construct the fireplace, including stone, brick, or whatever material you have chosen, a chimney, lintels, and other require materials. There is also the option of purchasing a kit and having a professional contractor install it for you.
Some outdoor fireplaces can also be decorated on the outside. Stucco can be used as well as paint tinted to match your color scheme. The sky is the limit when it comes to decorating the exterior, ranging from a traditional stucco look to whimsical designs.
Outdoor fireplace kits are perfect for almost any home. Smaller models with fit well with a condo, while a larger unit looks great in the backyard of a large, spacious home. They can be used all year round for entertaining and relaxing with those you care about the most.