How To Build A Small Outdoor Brick Fireplace

Enjoying the warmth and ambiance of a cozy fireplace outdoors can be a great way to relax and entertain guests. With a bit of planning and effort, you can build a small outdoor brick fireplace that will provide years of enjoyment. Here are the essential steps on how to build a small outdoor brick fireplace:

1. Choose the right location
The first step is to choose the right location for your fireplace. It should be in a well-drained area away from any trees or shrubs that could pose a fire hazard. You will also need to make sure that the location is accessible and that there is enough space for seating.

2. Gather your materials
Once you have chosen the right location, you will need to gather your materials. These include:

Firebricks
Mortar
Bricks
Lintel
Chimney cap
Gravel
Sand
Rebar
Expansion joint material

3. Prepare the site
The next step is to prepare the site for your fireplace. This involves clearing the area of any debris and digging a hole that is 6 inches deep and 12 inches wide. The hole should be filled with gravel and compacted.

4. Lay the foundation
Once the site is prepared, you can begin laying the foundation for your fireplace. This is done by laying a layer of bricks around the perimeter of the hole. The bricks should be laid in a stretcher bond pattern, which means that the long side of the brick is parallel to the edge of the hole.

5. Build the firebox
The next step is to build the firebox. This is done by laying a layer of firebricks on the foundation. The firebricks should be laid in a basketweave pattern, which means that the bricks are staggered so that the joints between the bricks are not aligned. The firebox should be 12 inches wide and 18 inches long.

6. Install the lintel
Once the firebox is built, you will need to install the lintel. The lintel is a piece of metal or concrete that supports the weight of the chimney. The lintel should be placed across the top of the firebox, and it should be supported by two bricks on either side.

7. Build the chimney
The next step is to build the chimney. The chimney is made by laying a layer of bricks around the lintel. The bricks should be laid in a stretcher bond pattern, and they should be mortared together. The chimney should be at least 3 feet tall, and it should have a flue that is 6 inches wide and 12 inches long.

8. Install the chimney cap
Once the chimney is built, you will need to install the chimney cap. The chimney cap is a piece of metal or concrete that prevents rain and snow from entering the chimney. The chimney cap should be placed on top of the chimney, and it should be secured with mortar.

9. Finish the fireplace
The final step is to finish the fireplace. This can be done by adding a layer of mortar to the joints between the bricks. The mortar should be spread evenly, and it should be allowed to dry completely.

Once the fireplace is finished, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a cozy fire outdoors. With a bit of care and maintenance, your outdoor brick fireplace will provide years of enjoyment.