Choosing a Safe Place for an Outdoor Fireplace

Before beginning construction, your first step should be confirming that an outdoor fireplace is allowed in your area.

Many municipalities have rules and codes that will determine if the fireplace you have in mind can be built in your neighborhood.

After receiving the okay for construction, the next step in building an outdoor fireplace is to determine a safe location. An outdoor fireplace should not be located close to any existing outbuildings or your home.

Once you have chosen several possible sites, go outside and look up. You should be able to see clear sky. There should be no utility lines or low hanging tree limbs over the selected area.

Next, stand in what you think would be the center of the fireplace. Allow your eyes to do a full 360 degree search of the area. All trees and shrubs should be at least six feet from the center in all directions. Grasses, flowers and any other botanicals should be removed from the immediate area surrounding the location.

Your next consideration should be fire safety, especially if you have a family with children. Can the area be enclosed to prevent anyone from getting too close? Children are fascinated by fire and it only takes turning your back for a moment for an accident to happen.

Choosing the materials to use in your fireplace is your next consideration. It is recommended to use either stone or fireproof brick. Depending on your area, stone can sometimes be reclaimed from old houses being torn down or from construction sites. It is not recommended to use reclaimed brick.

An outdoor fireplace guarantees hours of enjoyment for the entire family. It can become the focal point of outdoor entertainment and used correctly can cook a wide variety of meals. By building your fireplace in the safest area possible, it will give you years of service and satisfaction.

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