Small Outdoor Brick Fireplace Plans

Essential Aspects of Small Outdoor Brick Fireplace Plans

Small outdoor brick fireplaces are a great way to add warmth and ambiance to your backyard or patio. They're relatively easy to build, and they can be customized to fit your needs and style. Here are the essential aspects of small outdoor brick fireplace plans:

Materials

The most important material for a brick fireplace is, of course, the bricks. You'll need a good quality brick that is durable and can withstand the heat of a fire. Fire bricks are a good option, as they are specifically designed for this purpose. In addition to bricks, you'll also need mortar, sand, and gravel.

Size and Design

The size and design of your fireplace will depend on your needs and the available space. A small fireplace is typically between 2 and 4 feet wide, and 2 and 3 feet high. You can choose a simple rectangular design, or you can get more creative with an arched opening or a curved hearth. You can also add a mantel or chimney to give your fireplace a more finished look.

Construction

Once you have chosen your materials and design, you can start building your fireplace. Start by digging a hole for the foundation. The hole should be at least 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide. Fill the hole with gravel and tamp it down. Then, build a concrete footing on top of the gravel. The footing should be at least 4 inches thick and extend beyond the edges of the fireplace.

Once the footing is set, you can start laying the bricks. Start by laying a row of bricks around the perimeter of the footing. Then, fill in the interior of the fireplace with bricks. Be sure to use mortar between each brick, and stagger the joints. Once the first layer of bricks is complete, you can start adding height to the fireplace. Continue laying bricks until you reach the desired height.

Finishing

Once the fireplace is built, you can finish it by adding a hearth and a mantel. The hearth is the area in front of the fireplace where you will build your fire. It can be made of brick, stone, or concrete. The mantel is the shelf above the fireplace opening. It can be made of wood, metal, or stone. Once the hearth and mantel are in place, your fireplace is complete.