5609 McWhinney Blvd, Loveland, CO 80538

When you add an outdoor fireplace on your property, it’s similar to building an extension onto your house. The only difference is that, in a whole new way, you are opening up the great outdoors to become part of the pleasure of being home in every season. Fireplaces are among the most popular outdoor features buyers are looking for in a new home today. For the most successful outcome of a project in which an outdoor fireplace is added, planning is necessary. The following tips can help you make the best decisions, to ensure long-term enjoyment of your outdoor fireplace.

Building and Code Regulations

Investigate building and fire codes where you live, to ensure that your outdoor fireplace meets all guidelines and restrictions. For instance, wood-burning fireplaces must meet building code requirements for height, in order to ensure proper drafting. Gas fireplaces require a gas line and vent pipe.

Location on the Property

There are many different things to consider, when choosing the place where your new outdoor fireplace will be built. A well-situated outdoor fireplace has easy access to the house, swimming pool, spa, or other recreational areas.  You may, for example, want family and friends to be able to warm up by a fire after spending time in the pool or hot tub. Your primary outdoor activity may be centered around an outdoor kitchen, and the fireplace will make the space cozy and inviting. The location should be a dry area with good water drainage, to prevent damage.

Size of the Fireplace

A small outdoor fireplace is adequate if you plan to entertain small groups. Built-in fireplaces can be as small as 3 feet wide x 2 feet deep x 4 feet tall. Large fireplaces with built-in seating and extended hearth may be as tall and wide as 15 feet and 4 feet deep or more.

Building Materials

There are numerous options in fireplace materials. The least expensive material is stucco, which gives a southwestern look and comes in a wide range of colors. Other options include: Brick, stone, stone cladding, concrete, and rock. An important consideration when choosing a material is to ensure that the outdoor space in some way complements or harmonizes with the exterior of your home.

Fireplace Fuel

Fuel options for outdoor fireplaces include propane, wood, and gas. No utility connections are needed or required for a fireplace fueled with wood or propane. A chimney is not needed for a gas fireplace, but a gas line needs to be properly installed.

Safety Considerations

A fireplace can potentially become a safety hazard. It’s important that the fireplace has proper ventilation. A fireplace should not be built under a roof line or wall with a blocked airway. If your outdoor fireplace is attached to the house, it must have proper venting, to prevent smoke from entering the home. For added safety, store a fire extinguisher outdoors, in case of an emergency.

Custom Installation

Family-owned FyrePro in Fort Collins CO has industry experts who have installed custom outdoor fireplaces throughout Northern Colorado and in Southern Wyoming. Whether you want a basic style or a stunning, intricate creation, you can have the outdoor fireplace you dream of by calling FyrePro at (970) 213-7962. FyrePro has been a Fort Collins favorite since 2002.