How to Build a Fireplace Shelter
A fireplace shelter provides the same roofed protection as a normal picnic shelter but includes a fireplace for enjoyment during cool evenings. Most open-sided picnic shelter plans can be modified to include a fireplace. This plan from the Mississippi State University Extension Service is built on six posts with a 12-by-20-foot sheltered area. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Stone or brick for a fireplace
- 6 posts, 6-by-6 inch, 12 feet long
- Rafters
- Roof sheating
- Shingles
- Roof flashing
- Roof tar
Instructions
-
-
1
Build the fireplace first. Use stone, brick or other materials to create a fireplace 6 foot 9 inches wide at the floor level and extending 4 feet 5 inches high at that width. The fireplace then narrows to a chimney segment that extends to a height of 12 feet. Owners can design the fireplace to fit their outdoor décor.
-
2
Set the posts to support the fireplace shelter. Use a post hole auger to excavate holes to a depth of 3 feet to set the 6-by-6-inch posts. Place two posts even with the front of the fireplace 11 feet 9 inches apart. The fireplace should be centered between these posts. Add two posts, 11 feet 9 inches apart, 20 feet from the posts at the fireplace. Place a midline post between the two posts on each side of the shelter. Make sure the posts are vertically straight and in line to produce the rectangular picnic shelter frame.
-
-
3
Nail a 2-by-8-inch board to the outside top of the posts on each side of the shelter. Place rafters 24 inches on center on top of these supports. Sheath the roof with plywood or roofing boards and complete the roof with either wood or asphalt shingles.
-
4
Use a metal flashing and roofing tar to seal the fireplace chimney to the roof. This prevents rain water from washing down the front of the fireplace. Optionally, pour a cement floor under the shelter roof.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Optionally, the cement floor can be left as dirt or covered with patio brick, tiles or stone. The floor can be designed to match or complement the look of the fireplace. The fireplace shelter can be enclosed with screens to provide a bug-free picnic and fireplace area.
Check all local zoning and building regulations before beginning construction. Some areas limit the construction of outdoor buildings while most require building permits.
