Latest Home Improvement, Renovation & Remodeling Trends

If you live in Minnesota why in the world would you want an outdoor fireplace? The answer to this is simply: an outdoor fireplace is an upscale fire pit. You get the enjoyment of the small bonfire in a more controlled environment. And you can have it in your backyard. Wouldn’t it be great to have an old-fashioned bonfire in your suburban backyard? Well, unless your county hasn’t upgraded the fire laws in the past hundred years this isn’t going to happen.

Outdoor Warmth

How many times have you been entertaining on your patio and have had to come indoors because the night was getting cool? Even with a coat some part of your body will not heat up to let you enjoy sitting for very long. An outdoor fireplace in a wind-protected area can extend the social life of your deck well into the late fall and begin in the early spring.

Types of Outdoor Fireplaces

• Simple Chimnea or Firepit: This is a portable burner which usually sells for around $50. You can position it anywhere because most types come with three-legs. Your choice of fuel is limited, however, because of the size. In many models regular-cut fire wood is too big so make sure that you can get sticks of this length in the burner.
• Gas Chimnea: You don’t have to worry about fiddling with firewood with this type of outdoor fireplace. You can get propane tanks or run them off natural gas.
• Freestanding Masonry: This is a traditional fireplace built outside, complete with high chimney. These are the luxury items and can be built to accommodate either gas or wood.

Laws and Hazards

Before you think about building an outdoor fireplace you better check the codes. Like any open fire appliance the dangers are there for both you and your neighbors. Regulations governing them have not been standardized. In fact they vary from state to state and differing counties. Some homeowners have been known to build huge fireplaces that block their neighbors’ views while others burn wet wood and all types of materials like plastics that can cause respiratory discomfort to those in the area.

To answer your questions get a free consultation with a certified mason from Renovation Experts.