3 Tips for Building an Outdoor Living Space with a Fireplace
“We no longer build fireplaces for physical warmth. We build them for the warmth of the soul; we build them to dream by, to hope by, to home by.” – Edna Ferber
Outdoor living spaces are often used for hosting gatherings and relaxing. When the weather starts to get cold, these decks are often used less, leaving you feeling as if part of your home has gone into hibernation. By installing a fireplace onto a deck, you’ll make the space more functional, add a unique aesthetic, and open up new ways to entertain guests.
Here are three tips that will make building an outdoor living space with a fireplace easier.
1. Survey Your Space
If you’re interested in including a fireplace with your deck, the first step is to look around the area where your outdoor living space will be. You’ll need to determine:
- The deck’s dimensions.
- How big the fireplace will need to be to keep the desired areas of the deck warm.
- Where other deck amenities will be located.
- The home’s exterior aesthetic, so the fireplace can complement it.
The key to having a great deck with a fireplace is all about placement. In many cities, there are building codes you’ll have to follow that will impact the decision. For example, deck fireplaces often need to be a certain distance away from the house. Include these considerations during the deck design process to help ensure the perfect placement.
As a side note, you can always use a piece of furniture or a box as a stand-in for a deck fireplace. Sometimes, having a visual helps you decide if the view of your outdoor living space is on track.
2. Decide What Type of Fireplace is Best for Your Outdoor Living Space
When you’re looking to add a fireplace to an outdoor living space, deciding between wood and gas is an important step. While both products have their benefits, they each have their own unique considerations.
- Wood-Burning Deck Fireplaces: In general, wood-burning fireplaces are taller and will require a chimney. The hearth is also bigger than their gas counterparts since they need to hold logs. It’s worth noting that the design aesthetic of the space also will play into your decision—if you’re going for an outdoorsy, rustic, or nature-inspired look, wood-burning are a great choice.
- Gas-Burning Deck Fireplaces: Gas-burning deck fireplaces will come equipped with exhaust vents instead of a chimney. While they take up less space, they will need to be hooked up to a gas line; because of this, gas-burning fireplaces can heavily influence the design of an outdoor living space unless you have a new line put in. On the upside, gas fireplaces are easier to use.
3. Talk to an Expert or Your Contractor
Whether you’re planning on building an outdoor living space yourself or hiring a pro, it helps to talk to an expert when building a deck fireplace. These systems often include gas lines, masonry, and specialized construction, which contractors can provide helpful insight on. Talk to a few local contractors and ask them about how they approach building an outdoor living space with a fireplace.
Another major benefit of talking to an expert is getting a shortlist of all the local permits and building codes. There are often some issues that come up if you don’t do your homework, such as keeping the chimney under a certain height and needing a burn permit after the project is finished. If you’re thinking about putting in a gas fireplace, it’s highly recommended that you have a professional install those lines.
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