A DIY outdoor fireplace is a great way to transform a yard into a comfortable and attractive living space year-round. Before starting the project, however, it is important to consider a few important factors: materials to be used for the project, the location of the DIY outdoor fireplace, the budget for the project, the fuel source for the fire, and the proximity of the fireplace to any flammable objects. Local laws and regulations regarding construction projects must also be researched before any project can be taken on.
It is very important to keep in mind that a DIY outdoor fireplace project will take a significant amount of work to complete. If brick is being used as the primary material, it may be necessary to hire a professional in order to build the structure properly. Bricklaying is a difficult process that requires experience and knowledge, and building the DIY outdoor fireplace incorrectly can lead to costly repairs or even injury if the structure collapses. Other materials can be easier to work with, but they may not be as attractive or durable as brick. Concrete, for example, is easy to work with, but it will need to be painted or otherwise tinted to make it an attractive option.
Assembling the proper tools ahead of time is also of key importance to the DIY outdoor fireplace project. The necessary tools will vary according to the type of fireplace being built as well as the size and shape of the fireplace; it may be necessary, for example, to rent a power tamp or small excavator for exceptionally large fireplace areas, while a shovel and pickaxe may be appropriate for smaller projects. Bricklaying equipment will be necessary if brick is used, and concrete tools such as a trowel and cement mixer will be necessary for concrete.
If a gas fixture is being installed to power the stove, it may be necessary to consult a professional who can run a gas line from the home to the fireplace. This must be done properly and safely to ensure the reliability of the fireplace. If the fireplace will be wood fired, a pit will need to be dug so the fire is beneath the surface of the fireplace area. This will prevent stray sparks and spreading fire. Think carefully about the fireplace structure itself. It should be enclosed so that stray sparks will not ignite nearby flammable objects, but it will also need to be built in such a way that airflow is possible, preventing the fire from going out quickly.
