The trend of building outdoor fire pits and fireplaces is catching on at a fast pace. Outdoor fireplaces come in many designs and themes and are available in portable and custom models. Outdoor fireplaces are to be built according to local codes, which usually specify the firebricks to be used. Two important factors are safe design and ventilation.
Any outdoor fireplace design is similar to that of an indoor fireplace. One exception is that dampers are not used in outdoor fireplaces. A tall chimney, the major component of any fixed type outdoor fireplace, provides shelter from the smoke. Mexican style chimney pots called chimeneas are a beautiful addition. Outdoor fireplaces may be designed with a bowl-shaped base with a single opening connected to a stack or chimney. It circulates air into the fire and emits smoke out of the top of the stack. Etched cast iron, aluminum, or clay and terracotta are used as raw materials for fireplace construction. Cast-iron and cast aluminum outdoor fireplaces are durable and resist roaring flames and high temperatures.
Lavers and Fire Rings are low cost, decorative portable fireplaces that can be moved with ease from one place to another. Integrated fireplaces are another option and these maybe freestanding or attached. English, Eastern brick, Southwestern adobe, or Old World traditional are among the popular designs and themes.
An outdoor fireplace has a crown, overmantel, mantel shelf, header, filler panel, fire box, leg, plinth base, and hearth. Some models use the combined form of mantel shelf and header.
Masonry construction is more durable than metal or prefabricated fireboxes, which may rust when exposed to rain or snow. Fire Rock’s pre-engineered fireplace system is faster and less-expensive than hand-built, brick and mortar structures. In this case, the raw materials are available in a kit, and the homeowner can install the fireplace easily. The newly constructed fireplace is then covered with the finishing material such as brick, stone, stucco or manufactured stone.
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Brick Outdoor Fireplace
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Brick outdoor fireplaces are free standing, enclosed units with chimneys which restrict smoke and ash. These fireplaces add charm to the garden, patio, backyard, pool area, beach, or any outdoor location. The finest material for constructing outdoor fireplaces is brick. These are usually designed to...
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Outdoor Fireplace Masonry
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Outdoor masonry fireplaces add a classic touch, and create a warm and magical atmosphere to any outdoor space such as garden, patio, backyard, or pool area. Though expensive to build and maintain, masonry fireplaces have an old world charm and romance associated with them. These...
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Outdoor Stone Fireplace
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Outdoor stone fireplaces are the best and inexpensive way to add elegance and style to the outdoor space at a home. Crafted with attractive stones, an outdoor stone fireplace makes a perfect gathering place on frosty nights. Stone is the most preferable material for constructing...
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Outdoor Fireplace Plan
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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An outdoor fireplace plan explains the various steps and procedures to be considered while building an outdoor fireplace. A good outdoor fireplace plan acts as the fundamental step for constructing an attractive and durable outdoor fireplace. The plan developed must be user-friendly and cover all...
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The Advantages of Stone Fireplace Mantels
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Atop a fireplace, a stone mantel beckons. Its timeless look and natural elements is as close you’ll get to the great outdoors. Actually, stone was one of the first materials used around the 16th century. As fireplace history will have it, stonewalls were cut and...
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Outdoor Gas Fireplace
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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A perfect outdoor accessory, an outdoor gas fireplace with its sleek profile and heat efficiency, is a highly popular alternative to the huge masonry wood-burning outdoor fireplace. Outdoor gas fireplace is specially designed to provide the warmth and allure of an outdoor campfire. Compared to...
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An Introduction To Outdoor Fireplaces
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Outdoor fireplaces, embracing beauty and durability, provide the warmth and attractive ambiance of a wood-cracking campfire. They add ambience and style to any outdoor occasion. A perfect architectural addition to one’s patio, pool area or backyard, outdoor fireplaces make a great gathering place to spend...
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The Benefits of Wood Fireplace Mantels
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Mantel shelves are quickly stealing the spotlight from its counterpart the fireplace. A mantel is an ideal place for your most treasured items that you want those who visit your home to see. Choosing wood would definitely bring out the beauty of surrounding wooden furniture,...
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Outdoor Fireplaces
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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An outdoor fireplace is an attractive centerpiece to a patio, backyard or pool. With the warmth and exciting ambiance of a wood-cracking campfire, outdoor fireplaces are intended to be an efficient heat source. They create a relaxing gathering place, where family and friends can spend...
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Fireplace Chimneys
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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An essential part of both indoor and outdoor fireplaces, fireplace chimneys vent the hazardous and noxious gases, produced by the combustion of fuels, safely to the outside atmosphere. Fireplace chimneys regulate the flow of air and keep excessive heat from combustible materials that surround the...