Planning Your Outdoor Fireplace

To ensure the success of your outdoor fireplace project, consider location, design, and legal regulations carefully.

Choosing the Right Location

The location of your outdoor fireplace should be:

• Safe: Choose a spot clear of overhanging branches, away from structures and fences.
• Functional: Think about wind patterns and seating arrangements for comfort.

Designing on a Budget

A cost-effective fireplace design involves:

• Materials: Use affordable materials like brick or cinder block.
• Simplicity: Opt for a straightforward design to reduce labor costs.

Local Building Codes and Safety

Before starting your project, you need to:

• Check Regulations: Contact local building authorities for code requirements.
• Plan for Safety: Ensure the design includes a spark guard and proper clearance from combustibles.

Gathering Materials

When building an outdoor fireplace on a budget, identifying and using cost-effective materials is crucial. Additionally, recycling and reclaiming materials can significantly reduce costs and add unique character to your project.

Cost-Effective Material Options

For the structure of your outdoor fireplace, cinder blocks and concrete are sturdy and affordable. Consider the following pricing estimates:

• Cinder Blocks: Approximately $1 - $3 each
• Concrete Mix: Around $5 per 80 lb. bag

Bricks can also be used, particularly if you find them on sale or at a reduced price as leftovers from other projects. Costs vary, but expect to pay about:

• Bricks: $0.50 - $0.70 each for standard red bricks

For the fireplace lining that can withstand heat, fire bricks and fireclay mortar are necessary, which could be:

• Fire Bricks: $2 - $5 per brick
• Fireclay Mortar: $25 - $40 per 50 lb. bag

Recycling and Reclaiming Materials

Reclaimed Bricks: Look for salvage yards or listings where you can pick up bricks from demolished buildings; prices can be as low as $0.20 per brick.

Scrap Metal: For a fire grate or andirons, scrapyards can provide inexpensive options, often charged by weight (usually $0.10 - $0.30 per pound for steel).

Using recycled pavers or stone can add a rustic charm for your patio area around the fireplace. Seek out excess materials from completed projects, often found on marketplace websites or construction sites with permission from the owners.

Building the Foundation

A solid foundation is essential for the stability and longevity of your outdoor fireplace. It will support the weight and withstand the elements.

Preparing the Ground

Firstly, choose a level spot away from overhanging trees and at least 10 feet away from buildings and fences. Clear the area of grass, roots, and debris. Use a shovel to dig out the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches and a size slightly larger than the planned fireplace base. Compact the dirt firmly with a hand tamper or a rented plate compactor.

Laying the Foundation

Next, create a form using 2x4 lumber that fits the dimensions of your cleared area. Ensure that the form is level by using a carpenter's level. Mix concrete according to the manufacturer's instructions and pour it into the form until it's level with the top. Use a screed board to smooth the concrete, then use a trowel to finish the surface after the concrete has set slightly. Allow the foundation to cure for at least 48 hours before removing the form and proceeding with the construction of your outdoor fireplace.

Constructing the Firebox

When starting to build your firebox, choose materials that are both affordable and resistant to high temperatures. Refractory bricks are a common choice due to their heat resistance. Avoid regular bricks as they can crack under intense heat.

Measure the Area: Your firebox should be proportional to the size of your fireplace. A typical size is around 30 inches deep, 36 inches wide, and 24 inches high. Adjust the size according to your needs, keeping in mind the scale of your outdoor space.

Base Layer:

1. Lay a layer of gravel for drainage.
2. Over the gravel, pour a concrete slab at least 4 inches thick. This acts as a solid foundation.

Brick Layout:

• Starting at the base, apply a layer of fireproof mortar on the concrete.
• Place your refractory bricks tightly together without leaving gaps.
• Continue layering mortar and bricks until you reach the desired height.

Maintenance Tips:

• Inspect bricks: Regularly check for cracks or damage.
• Cleaning: After use, when the ash is cool, clear out debris.
• Sealant: Optionally, apply a sealant that withstands high temperatures, enhancing durability.

Remember, using the correct materials and following these steps carefully ensures the longevity and safety of your outdoor fireplace firebox.

Adding the Chimney

The chimney serves as a crucial component for smoke ventilation. Proper construction ensures efficiency and safety.

Determining the Height

Your chimney should extend at least two feet higher than any part of the building within ten feet. For optimal draft, the chimney top should be at least three feet above the highest point of the fireplace opening.

Chimney Materials

For a cost-effective approach:

• Use bricks or concrete blocks as a sturdy and affordable choice.
• Consider flue liners for safety, improving airflow, and ease of cleaning. Ceramic or clay flue liners are economical options.

Tools and Supplies:

• Mortar mix
• Trowel
• Level
• Measuring tape

Construct the chimney carefully, layer by layer, ensuring that each level is plumb and the joints are well-sealed with mortar for a long-lasting structure.

Finishing Touches

Once the main structure of your outdoor fireplace is complete, it's time to add veneers and landscaping to enhance its appearance and integration with your outdoor space.

Applying Veneers

To give your outdoor fireplace a more polished look, veneers can be a cost-effective solution. Select veneers that complement the surrounding area and are resistant to high temperatures.

• Materials: Use heat-resistant adhesives and natural stone or brick veneers.
• Application: Apply adhesive evenly, press veneers firmly into place, ensure level alignment.

Landscaping

Landscaping around your fireplace can transform it into a natural part of your garden. Use plants and outdoor elements that are fire resistant and enhance the ambiance.

• Plant Selection:
  • Choose fire-resistant shrubs like lavender or hydrangeas.
  • Incorporate perennials for year-round greenery.
• Design:
  • Arrange stones or pavers to create a non-flammable path around the fireplace.
  • Consider lighting to highlight the fireplace area at night.