Welcome to our in-depth guide on choosing the best place to install an outdoor fireplace. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy outdoor spot for those chillier evenings or a picturesque setting for entertaining friends and family, the addition of an outdoor fireplace can bring both warmth and aesthetic appeal to your outdoor living space. But the question is, where’s the best spot for your fireplace? Don’t worry, we have you covered!
Ventless vs. Wood Burning: Understanding the Basics
To start, let’s clarify the difference between the two most common types of outdoor fireplaces: ventless and wood burning. These types significantly impact where you can place your outdoor fireplace, so it’s crucial to understand their unique characteristics.
Ventless Fireplaces
A ventless fireplace, as the name suggests, does not require a vent or chimney. It’s an excellent choice if you’re considering installing a fireplace near a covered structure like a pergola, or even on a deck. This type of fireplace offers the convenience of positioning as it’s not as heavy as its wood-burning counterpart.
The installation process usually involves framing the outside, applying a Hardy Board, and finishing off with a stone veneer for an attractive look. It’s a fairly straightforward process, making ventless fireplaces a flexible and accessible choice.
Wood Burning Fireplaces: For Authentic Feel
The wood-burning fireplace offers the authentic crackling sounds and smell of burning wood. However, safety and city codes require this type to be located at least 10 to 15 feet from your house. The goal is to prevent any embers or sparks from catching other structures on fire. These fireplaces are considerably heavier, requiring robust support, which we’ll cover more on that shortly.
Best Place to Install an Outdoor Fireplace
Now that we have a basic understanding of ventless and wood-burning fireplaces let’s delve into the best places to install these warm additions.
Ideal Locations for Ventless Fireplaces
Due to their lightweight and versatile nature, ventless fireplaces can be installed in various areas of your outdoor space. A popular choice is on a deck. It’s important to remember, though, that the installation should be performed professionally to ensure it’s both safe and aesthetically pleasing. The key is to build it around a covered structure or any space that suits your lifestyle and enhances your outdoor living experience.
Ideal Locations for Wood Burning Fireplaces
As previously mentioned, safety and local regulations dictate that wood-burning fireplaces must be situated a safe distance from your home. Aside from this, they can also be constructed in open spaces where the risk of sparking a fire from flying embers is minimal. One thing to consider is the view from your fire – you’d want it to be a focal point, not hidden away.
Impact of Installation on Costs
Like any home improvement project, the cost of installing an outdoor fireplace will depend on various factors, including the type of fireplace you choose.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Wood Burning Fireplaces
Due to their weight, wood-burning fireplaces require robust support structures. We typically install four piers at the base, along with an eight-inch footing that the fireplace will sit on. The cost can be influenced by how high the chimney needs to be and the amount of ground prep needed for footings. Both these factors can significantly affect the final price.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Ventless Fireplaces
Ventless fireplaces, on the other hand, tend to be less expensive to install due to their lightweight design. However, costs can vary depending on the materials used and the complexity of the installation process.
Conclusion
To conclude, the best place to install an outdoor fireplace depends on many factors, including the type of fireplace you choose, local regulations, safety considerations, and your personal preferences.
Hopefully, this guide has provided you with some valuable insights and considerations to make an informed decision. If you have any more questions or need professional assistance with the installation, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to turn your dream outdoor living space into reality!
