How to Pick an Outdoor Fireplace

Many outdoor fireplaces are fancier than indoor ones. Some expensive fireplaces stand over eight feet tall and include MP3 docks. Less fancy ones are just a metal bowl with legs. Almost anyone can afford an outdoor fireplace because there are many styles to choose from. Follow these steps to pick an outdoor fireplace.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide what you want to do with your outdoor fireplace. You can use it for grilling or roast marshmallows over it. Also, you could just sit and watch the fire while occasionally gazing at the stars.
   

2. Check to see if your city has any bans or rules regarding outdoor fireplaces. If your city has a burn ban you can get around it by installing a gas fireplace which doesn't emit any smoke.

3. Determine if you want a stationery or portable fireplace. Stationary fireplaces can be bought premade, but they need to be installed. Firebowls and kettle fireplaces, including chimineas, are portable and can even be taken camping.

4. Obtain a building permit if you decide you want a built-in fireplace. You will probably also need to hire a contractor to build or install it.

5. Choose between a wood burning or gas fireplace. You can purchase both built-in and portable fireplaces in wood burning or gas styles.

6. Pick the type of material you want your fireplace made from. Built-in fireplaces or firepits can be made of brick, cement, tile or stone. Portable fireplaces are made from steel, copper, or clay and the most durable ones from cast iron or aluminum. Durable usually means more expensive.
   
   

Tips & Warnings

• Chimineas are the least expensive, but they are usually made of clay which is fragile.
• If you want a sitting around the campfire feel, pick a firebowl or firepit.
• A few firebowls come with a grill. Most of them come with a screen.
• If you don't want to deal with smoke, get a fireplace.
• Portable fire pits should be at least 10 feet away from the house or any combustibles.
• Don't put portable fireplaces on top of a wood or composite wood deck. The deck could ignite.

[Janiebuilder]

on 11/14/2008 Have you considered covering it with a small tarp? You can add velcro to the bottom edges or add ringlets and weave in small nylon rope to tie or hold in place. I purchased an extra grill cover and airconditioner cover this year. Try using one of these, they have built in strings and keep the unit rust free!

[homebody28]

on 11/9/2008 Naive question: Can a "portable" outdoor firepit be left outside in the rain? I just bought a copper one with metal legs, screen and a chiminea-type extension on the top. It seems pretty heavy to drag back and forth, and the skimpy instructions don't talk about care.