Portable Outdoor Fireplace

A portable outdoor fireplace is a perfect choice if you’ve decided you want an outdoor fireplace, but you don’t want to commit to a fixed structure. For some it is a good place to start when planning out the design of your outdoor living area as these units can be relatively inexpensive and because they are movable you can test them in a few different areas until you find just the look and feel you want.

Portable outdoor fireplace can mean few different things. It can refer to above ground fire pits that are portable, many of them are. It can refer to a freestanding fireplace that isn’t attached to the ground. Or it can refer to a non-traditional style of chimineas. Continue reading

Outdoor Gas Fireplace

An outdoor gas fireplace is a great option if you are looking for an outside fireplace that doesn’t use wood for fuel. While many people love the smell of a wood burning fireplace there are some drawbacks to them that you won’t find in gas fireplaces, so a gas outdoor fireplace may be the best fit combining both enjoyment and functionality.

The gas outdoor fireplaces come as either natural gas fireplaces or outdoor propane fireplaces. When choosing which one is best for you there are a few things to consider. First do you have natural gas running to your home already for an oven or stove? If you do you can just run a line to the area where you want to set up your outdoor fireplace.

The other option is an outdoor propane fireplace. While natural gas may burn cleaner, outdoor propane fireplaces can be more versatile. Continue reading

Outdoor Patio Fireplace

Buying an outdoor patio fireplace is probably one of the most fun upgrades you can make to your patio area. They have become so popular that you can find a wide variety of them from the portable outdoor fireplace to one that is fixed for a sturdy look that feels like an indoor fireplace, only under the stars. A patio fireplace along with some landscaping can truly transform the look and feel of your own back yard.

The type of outdoor fireplace you choose will depend on a few things, what is allowed in your city and county, the size of your patio and yard, and the look and feel you want to achieve. If you don’t have a very big patio or if you don’t want to commit to a fixed fireplace you should consider a portable outdoor fireplace. Continue reading

Metal Chiminea

The chiminea is a popular form of outdoor fireplace. Traditionally it has a bulbous shape, the larger body of it is where the wood is burned which leads to the thinner neck that directs the smoke up and out of the top. The specific design of a traditional chiminea is nice in that it helps keep smoke from blowing around and in the faces of those enjoying the fireplace.

The two main types are metal and clay chimineas. Clay chimineas provide more of a rustic Southwestern look but metal chimineas are more durable and will last longer in a larger variety of climates. Metal chimineas come in a variety of styles and designs from decorative to simple so they can fit pretty well into the design and feel of most outdoor areas.

If you want a metal chiminea that will be durable, long-lasting and pretty low maintenance you probably want to look at Continue reading

Outdoor Fireplaces

Before you get too excited about getting an outdoor fireplace or outdoor fire pit you need to make sure they are allowed in your area. Many condos and townhouses don’t allow them. If you have a neighborhood association be sure to check the covenants to make sure they are allowed first. Also check with your city’s rules and regulations.

Once you’ve verified outdoor fireplaces are allowed in your area there are a few things you want to consider before making your purchase. Do you want an outdoor fireplace that’s mostly enclosed, or do you want more of an open outdoor fire pit? The proximity of your neighbors may be one thing to think about when deciding this. An open fire pit may create more drifting smoke for those sitting around it and your neighbors. A chiminea is enclosed and has a shape that directs the smoke up into the air, keeping it away from guests.

Another important decision is whether or not it will be a permanent fixture. You may want something that is sturdy and anchored into the outdoor patio as part of the patio layout and design. Or you may want something that you can move around the patio depending on your needs. Continue reading