Tips For Choosing An Outdoor Fireplace

Having an outdoor fireplace can make a big difference in your yard and how often you spend time there. However, not all fireplaces are the same. Whether you choose to build one yourself, or have one professionally installed by a company like Eastgate Pools, there are a few things you need to consider.

Purpose

If you are only interested in warming up a seating area, or creating a bit of ambiance, you do not need to have grates or grills for cooking on. However, if you will be using the fireplace to cook, even to roast marshmallows, you need to be sure there is enough room for cooking and for people to be able to get to the fire. Cooking requires a more open fire, whereas if you are heating the area, you could have the fire more confined. For example, you should have a fire pit or brick grill for cooking but a chimenea for heating.

Size

Make sure there is enough space around the fireplace to keep things from getting burned or melted. If you are going with a fire pit in a sitting area, buy the furniture first and arrange it the way you want it. Then you can find a fire pit that will fit in the seating arrangement without causing anyone to get too hot. If you have plenty of room in your back yard you can always move the seats further out, but you do not want people to have to yell across the pit to be heard.

Regulations and Ordinances

Depending on where you live, there may be regulations or ordinances pertaining to outdoor fireplaces. There might be limits to the size of the fireplace or the type of fuel you can use in it. It would not be a good thing to have a fireplace for burning wood if you are only allowed to have a gas one. You may also have to provide some type of fencing around the fireplace or the entire yard to keep kids and animals safe.

Safety Equipment

Make sure you know which type of fire extinguisher is needed for the fireplace. You should also have a shovel and a hose nearby. To be sure you have everything required, contact the local fire department and ask what they suggest. While talking to them, find out if there are any permits required or special times when you are not allowed to burn outside.

Once you have the new outdoor fireplace all set up and ready to be used, you may find yourself spending more time out there. Everyone will enjoy spending a relaxing evening together around the fire in the dark.