How To Build Outside Fireplace

How to Build an Outdoor Fireplace

An outdoor fireplace is a great way to enjoy your backyard in the cooler months. It can provide warmth, ambiance, and a place to gather with friends and family. If you're thinking about building an outdoor fireplace, there are a few things you need to know.

1. Choose a Location

The first step is to choose a location for your fireplace. It should be in a spot that is protected from the wind and rain, and that is close to a seating area. You'll also need to make sure that the location is large enough to accommodate the fireplace and any surrounding seating.

2. Gather Your Materials

Once you've chosen a location, you'll need to gather your materials. For a basic fireplace, you will need the following:

Fire bricks
Mortar
Concrete blocks
Gravel
Sand

3. Build the Base

The first step in building the fireplace is to create a base. This can be done by digging a hole in the ground and filling it with gravel. The gravel will help to drain water away from the fireplace and prevent it from settling.

4. Lay the Fire Bricks

Once the base is in place, you can start laying the fire bricks. The fire bricks should be laid in a staggered pattern, with each brick overlapping the one below it. Use mortar to hold the bricks in place.

5. Build the Walls

Once the fire bricks are in place, you can start building the walls of the fireplace. The walls can be made from concrete blocks or bricks. If you are using concrete blocks, you will need to use mortar to hold them in place. If you are using bricks, you can use either mortar or thin-set mortar.

6. Install the Mantel

Once the walls are complete, you can install the mantel. The mantel can be made from wood, stone, or metal. It should be wide enough to accommodate the firebox and any surrounding seating.

7. Finish the Fireplace

Once the mantel is installed, you can finish the fireplace by adding a hearth and a chimney. The hearth can be made from concrete, stone, or tile. The chimney should be made from metal or masonry. It should be high enough to vent the smoke from the fireplace.