When you hear the word fireplace, what do you think of?
A living room? Chimney? The holidays? Gathered around the fire with your favorite blanket and family? Or do you think of summer nights, the fire crackling at your feet and the night sky above you, telling stories and making memories with the sound of crickets chirping in the background?
Fireplaces are not just indoor centerpieces, fireplaces are also a great addition and centerpiece for any outdoor patio or setting. Spring and summer are upon us, but even though the days are getting warmer, the nights are still pretty chilly. An outdoor fireplace is the perfect way to enjoy these chilly nights outdoors!
Here are some tips to keep in mind when thinking about an outdoor fireplace!
- An overhead covered porch can help to trap warm air into an outdoor room that is radiated by fire
- Outdoor heaters can help to extend an area’s cold-weather use
- An outdoor fireplace can give an adventurous cook the opportunity to try and prepare creative meals over an open flame.
- Just because your fireplace is outdoors, does not mean that you should neglect the proper cleaning and maintenance schedule. Be sure to sweep the chimney flue regularly and seal any exposed mortar joints to keep freezing water from breaking up the mortar surface.
As you begin to plan your outdoor fireplace here are some questions we suggest you ask yourself, to ensure your outdoor design is as perfect as you imagined it!
Location:
- Do you want your outdoor fireplace on a covered porch, an open-air deck, patio, or on a terrace?
- Will it be attached to your home, or will it be free-standing?
- Will this be in a more public space or more private?
Use:
- How will you use this area?
- Will you need searing for lounging, dining, or entertaining?
- What time of day will you most likely use the fireplace?
- How will the sun’s pattern effect that areas use?
Looks:
- How big do you want your outdoor fireplace?
- What kind of look are you going for? Rustic – river rock, fieldstone? Or Streamlined – clay, brick?
- What color do you want your outdoor fireplace?
- Will it be a raised hearth or ground level?
- Do you want wood storage built into the firebox area or in a separate detached area?
Nuts and Bolts:
- What is your budget?
- Do you want a wood-burning or gas fireplace?
- Are there views that would benefit the area you wish to have your outdoor fireplace in?
An outdoor fireplace might be the one thing your outdoor space is missing! Give us a call for more information or to answer any questions you have on outdoor fireplaces.
Check out the full article from Cabin Life here.