Round up of the best outdoor fireplaces to use your Outdoor Nook year around.
We love outdoor fireplaces. They instantly create an atmosphere, are a natural focal point and almost always add value to your home. They also allow you to continue using your outdoor space during the chiller months- hot cocoa and smores relaxing on your Outdoor Nook in November sound good?
Our favourite modern outdoor fireplaces
We have rounded up a few tips to help you avoid common mistakes when planning an outdoor fireplace. The first and most critical step is to consult local building codes before starting the planning phase. Different counties have different regulations, and in some, you may require a building permit. As well as meeting all application fire standards in your area, you need to ensure that the fireplace is not too close to trees, bushes, shrubs or tall grass.
Have a good think about where you want to place the fireplace. You need a hard surface (soft areas could cause the foundations to crack or become uneven). You also need a relatively dry space that sheds water well. If you live in a colder climate, you need to take steps in advance to ensure that snow, ice, or frost will not compromise the unit's structural integrity.
Our favourite rustic-style outdoor fireplaces
Local ordinances may dictate what fuel you can burn in your fireplace. If they don't, think about your lifestyle and what would suit you best. This may be a wood-burning fire, or you may find gas simply more straightforward and more flexible. Wood-burning fires tend to give out more heat, but do require a constant supply of wood and cleaning/maintenance.
Our favourite tradtional-style outdoor fireplaces
Traditionally the more impressive outdoor fireplace systems, built from stone or brick, have been made from scratch. However, there are now masonry fireplace kits on the market, and they can work out significantly cheaper than site-built units. They also generally come with warranties and guarantees, which can minimize the risk and cost.
Choosing the fireplace that will work best for you and your outdoor space will come down to a handful of factors - customization, budget, functionality, aesthetics and longevity. Once in place, it is an investment that will extend your enjoyment of your backyard space well into the chiller evenings and months. We have even seen Christmas celebrations around the outdoor fireplace - definitely something to look forward it. Whatever style you go for, you can be sure if will look great with your Outdoor Nook sofa!