Functional exteriors are a leading trend in modern real estate. Homeowners are increasingly prioritizing ways to enjoy a change of scenery without leaving their own property. One of the best ways to increase the attractiveness of an exterior hangout is with the installation of a fireplace. Fire provides a warm, calming aspect around which people naturally gather.
While an exterior fireplace can do wonders for creating a stunning appearance and pulling people outside to pass the time, there are numerous factors to consider to ensure optimal functionality, aesthetics, and safety. Keep reading as we break down how to match an outdoor fireplace with other exterior design elements of your home.
Understand Fireplace Components
It is quite common to incorporate an outdoor fireplace as part of a rustic exterior design scheme. However, in order to make this work, it is paramount to understand all of the components for careful coordination.
There are three broad structural components of an outdoor fireplace:
Base
This is typically a reinforced concrete slab. Larger fireplaces must have more robust bases. In the Kansas City area, be sure to add steel rebar to the concrete base to help it withstand the freeze/thaw cycle. The base should be at least 6 inches wider than the fireplace in the rear and 24 inches wider in the front. The base can be clad with brick or other types of engineered masonry products to enhance aesthetics.
Firebox
This is the portion of the fireplace that actually hosts the fire. While wood-burning fireboxes are still the most popular, there are also some innovative gas and electric versions that work well for exterior purposes. When choosing a wood-burning firebox, it should be lined with firebrick for safety purposes.
Chimney (Vent)
A Wood-burning fireplace requires a smoke chamber leading to a chimney with a spark arrester. Gas fireplaces only need an exhaust vent. Chimneys are purely decorative for electric fireplaces. Because the chimney in wood-burning fireplaces must be at least two feet higher than any structure within 10 feet of the fireplace, it is critical to ensure adequate chimney space prior to selecting this option.
Each of these areas of the fireplace will play a pivotal role in enhancing both the aesthetics and performance of the fireplace.
Install the Highest Quality Pavers
Pavers will skirt the floor around the fireplace. They play a crucial role in functionality, aesthetics, and safety. Engineered composite pavers are a great exterior flooring choice. They ensure optimal drainage and hold up well to heavy foot traffic. They are also non-combustible and can be fabricated in a wide range of styles to match the design of the fireplace.
Consider the Home’s Facade
Outdoor fireplaces overwhelmingly add a stone or masonry aspect to the home’s exterior. While this natural appearance works well with virtually any home design style, it is still worthwhile to consider the home’s facade before installing an exterior fireplace. Give the home a fresh coat of paint to help coordinate aesthetics. If you are looking for a more robust cladding option, there are many types of fiber cement siding that can be engineered to match the aesthetics of the setup.
Choose Landscaping Accordingly
Landscaping is the backdrop against which many outdoor fireplaces will be framed. Water features provide a stunning “fire and ice” contrast for exterior fireplaces. Small fountains and stylish stock tanks can provide calming tranquility against a mesmerizing flame. Rock beds and pebble sidewalks offer a natural stone aspect that complements a fire perfectly. When choosing wood-burning fireplaces, be sure to regularly trim any dead branches from trees and rake any dry vegetation out of the lawns.
Prioritize Fire Resistance
If you do opt for a wood-burning fireplace, it is critical to prioritize fire resistance around the exterior. This will prevent blowing or spitting embers from causing a problem. Treat all wood decks with a fire-resistant stain. Depending on the location of the fireplace, it may be worthwhile to upgrade to more robust composite or ipe wood decking for increased fire resistance. The aforementioned fiber cement cladding is a great option for fire protection. Metal, slate, and composite roofing are top choices for squelching roof fires.
Add Appropriate Finishing Touches
Help tie your outdoor fireplace together with next-level finishing touches. A mantle can not only act as a heat shield, but serve as a place to rest beverages or house any exterior decor. A chimney cap can create a decorative effect that gives the fireplace a sense of completeness. Low-voltage lighting around the patio, natural stone seating areas, and faux stone veneer cladding are other great finishing touches to consider.
Leave No Stone Unturned for the Ultimate Fireplace Experience
A fireplace is a great way to quickly increase utilization of outdoor space. By considering any of the pro tips listed above, you can guarantee that your fireplace blends seamlessly with your exterior design for next-level aesthetics, functionality, and safety.
If you’re looking for the latest indoor fireplace-related trends shaping the Kansas City area, check out Full Service Chimney today for the leading market insights!
Author Bio
Brian Jeffries is a freelance writer who loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on construction projects and materials. He lives in Winter Park, Florida where he enjoys spending time with his wife and working on projects in his spare time. Brian’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.