Buying an outdoor fireplace for your patio is probably one of the most fun upgrades you can make to your outdoor living 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. An outdoor patio fireplace along with some landscaping can truly transform the look and feel of your own back yard.
Types Of Outdoor Patio Fireplaces
Wood vs Gas
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. Once you find out what is allowed in your area you may need to decide whether you want to consider a wood burning fireplace or a gas fireplace. Outdoor wood burning fireplaces offer that crackling sound and the smokey smell. While the smoke may keep mosquitoes away you may not like the smell of it. Outdoor gas fireplaces burn cleaner and they are easier to light, but you need to choose what kind of gas and whether or not you’ll need a gas line installed.
Fixed vs Portable
The other big decision is whether you want a fixed fireplace, a fire pit or a portable fireplace. A fixed outdoor fireplace can be really beautiful and set the feel of the whole outdoor living space. They can be decorated with brick or rugged stone and created right into the landscape of your patio. If you think you can handle the job yourself you may consider looking at patio fireplace kits, as they can make the job easier while providing you with the materials needed to make the firebox which needs to withstand extremely high temperatures. These can also be decorated with stone and brick if you like the look of stone outdoor fireplaces and want to create your own design.
If you don’t have a very big patio or if you don’t want to commit to a fixed fireplace you might want to consider a portable fireplace. If you like the feel of an open campfire you might want to look at outdoor patio fire pits. These are raised fire pits that are typically pretty easy to move. You can buy either wood burning or outdoor gas fire pits.
Another type of outdoor patio fireplace is a chiminea. Chimineas are bulbous shaped fireplaces with a design that helps take the smoke straight up so it doesn’t blow in your face, but you still have the feel of crackling wood. They are enclosed, except for the door so you don’t have to worry about embers popping out like you do with outdoor fire pits.
Freestanding outdoor fireplaces are yet another option for your outdoor patio fireplace. Most of them are wood burning or gas fueled but you can find some that use other sources like gel fuel. Many of these keep the fire somewhat enclosed which can be safer if you have children or pets. But you can find versions that have a full 360 degree view or a partial view, whichever you prefer.
An outdoor patio fireplace can bring your patio to life, whether you want it for entertaining or for relaxing evenings at home. Just think about what you want from it before you start shopping so you can find the one that is right for you.