How to Build a Stacked Stone Backyard Fireplace

As more people discover the ease of entertaining in their backyard, the popularity of outdoor fireplaces has increased. Outdoor fireplaces provides an ideal ambiance. Building a stacked stone fireplace is challenging, but rewarding.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Stake
• Mason line
• Spray paint
• Shovel
• Rebar (#4)
• Wire
• Trowels
• Concrete
• Flagstone
• Tuck pointer
• Circular saw

1. Prepare the work area. Place a stake at the center of the building site. Using a line, spray paint three rings that represent the inside wall, the outside wall and the flagstone wall.

2. Dig a 1-foot space for concrete footings; it should be 6 inches deep, between the two inner circles. Bend the rebar into 2 rings and twist the wire together. Fit the 6-inch holes with the rebar. Fill the space with concrete. Smooth it with a finishing trowel, and let it set.

3. Build the inner wall. Choose stones that fit snugly together. Place the stones on the ground in a pattern with plenty of contrast. Bond the stones with mortar. Try to keep the tops of the stones as level as possible. Press the grill panel snugly in place.

4. Create a wall outside the inner wall by repeating Step 3 (disregard the grill panel). Apply mortar to all of the stones, including the outside edges. Once the mortar has set, apply the flagstone veneer.

5. Remove any trim that is around the fireplace, and apply a weatherproof barrier.