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Can I build my own outdoor fireplace?
There are a lot of advantages to building an outdoor fireplace yourself. Primarily, you can spend a lot less money on it than if you had one built for you. You can also be in charge of the design. If you don’t like something, you can change it up so it fits you and your family’s needs.
Do outdoor gas fireplaces need to be vented?
Natural vent gas fireplaces need to be vented using a traditional masonry chimney with flue liner, direct vent gas fireplaces need to be vented directly from the outside and ventless gas fireplaces don’t need to be directly vented.
Is it expensive to build an outdoor fireplace?
An outdoor fireplace will cost anywhere between $1,500 to $20,000. On average, it will run you about $3,000 to have a fireplace built. Pre-made kits and unfinished contractor models usually only run from $1,500 to $9,000. Custom projects typically cost between $8,000 to $20,000 – some even hitting $50,000.
How far does an outdoor fireplace need to be from the house?
Choose the location with safety in mind. Your patio fireplace should be located at least 10 feet away from structures and flammable materials. When this is not possible, such as in the case of a patio with a wood cover or a mature tree growing nearby, you will need to take additional precautions to reduce fire risks.
Do you need fire brick for an outdoor fireplace?
Material Matters. All fireplaces must be constructed of heat-safe materials, which usually mean brick, block, concrete, or stone for the exterior. The firebox (where the flames actually burn) must be constructed from steel or fire-rated bricks that will withstand extreme heat.
Is an outdoor fireplace worth it?
Chances are it’ll be worth the investment, as outdoor fireplaces tend to be hugely popular elements of outdoor design, providing a natural gathering, entertaining and even cooking space. Whatever you invest, the returns are likely to be hefty in terms of cozy and comfortable quality time spent with friends and family.
Can you have a gas fireplace without a chimney?
Ventless fireplaces fueled by gas or propane rely on indoor air for combustion, and they exhaust a low level of their combustion gases into the room in which they’re located. A chimney or flue isn’t necessary. In fact, ventless fireplaces generally are just for aesthetics and supplemental space heating.
How do you vent a gas fireplace without a chimney?
If you don’t have a chimney, a natural vent system can also use a pipe venting system, which is typically installed through the roof. Here, you can get around having to use a brick and mortar chimney to rid the home of fumes and use a pipe system instead.
Do you need a damper in an outdoor fireplace?
Damper – a valve or plate that regulates smoke and air flow up the chimney. Indoors a damper allows you to close off the chimney when not in use and eliminate draft. Dampers are optional in outdoor fireplaces.
How many bricks does it take to build an outdoor fireplace?
For a simple, square outdoor fireplace, you’ll need around 100-150 bricks. However, if you want to build a more intricate design, you may need up to 500 bricks. Be sure to factor in the cost of mortar and other materials when calculating the total cost for your project.
What does it cost to build a fireplace?
The average cost to build a fireplace is $2,415 with most homeowners spending $1,050 to $3,780 depending on if it’s gas, wood-burning, or electric. A new fireplace unit costs $1,600 to $2,000 on average, while installation and finishing adds $2,100, or about 25% to 50% of total cost.
How much does it cost to build an outdoor fire pit?
The average cost to build a fire pit is $700. The project can run as low as $300 to as high as $1,400. The rate for labor is $55 per hour or about $340 per job, and the price for materials is about $400. The average cost range of a premade, above ground fire pit is $300.
Do you need planning permission for outdoor fireplace?
Warmth A fireplace gives that indoor/outdoor look. You won’t need planning permission and a builder can install one with a lined chimney in two to three days. If you don’t have the space, a firepit will give a similar focal point.
How far should a gas fire pit be from a house?
How far does a fire pit need to be away from the house? At least 10 feet (or 3 meters) away from any structure is recommended.
Are outdoor gas fireplaces safe?
Unlike wood burning fires, gas fires do not give off sparks, or smoke that can build up behind screens, but they do give off carbon monoxide (CO), so they need proper ventilation. This means that you can easily have a gas fire safely on your patio, as long as you have plenty of fresh air coming through.
How many cinder blocks do I need to build an outdoor fireplace?
A total of 28 blocks is needed here: 8 for the base, 8 for the top, 8 for the outside frame, and 4 for the inside supports (one on each side).
Can I use cinder blocks for an outdoor fireplace?
If you are interested in building an outdoor fireplace or kitchen there are great ways of building them. Cinder blocks are just one way of constructing them, but it’s a fantastic way to build a structure with great integrity and strength.
How deep should a footing be for an outdoor fireplace?
The concrete pad for your project should typically be 4-6 inches thick, 3-4 feet deep, and 4-5 feet wide.
