Nothing beats sitting outside on a cool summer morning or crisp fall evening, enjoying a hot cup of coffee or cocoa and listening to a crackling fire. If you’re ready to create this paradise in your backyard, we have the perfect outdoor fireplace ideas for you!
An outdoor fireplace adds warmth and makes a great focal point for family and friends to gather around, especially when your custom fireplace showcases the stunning elegance of natural stone. Here at Dutchies Stoneworks, we specialize in crafting both wood and gas fireplaces from stone and brick—ideal for adding function and beauty to your outdoor living spaces.
If you have your heart set on purchasing an outdoor fireplace but aren’t sure about some details, we’re here to help. This blog post will go over some outdoor fireplace designs, ideas, and frequently asked questions on size, placement, style, and other added details of your new fireplace, plus plenty of photos to inspire you! Then, schedule your design consultation to start creating your custom stone or brick fireplace.
Why Choose Outdoor Stone Fireplaces?
An outdoor stone fireplace is not just an addition to your yard. It is a statement. These are elegant, timeless, and versatile fireplaces, making them the ideal centerpiece for any outdoor space. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of fieldstone or the formal grace of uniformly cut stone, there is a style to suit every taste.
Stone fireplaces can add warmth and a welcoming atmosphere to your outdoor living spaces. They are a focal point for gatherings, enhancing your outdoor entertaining experience. With various stone types and design options available, including dry-stacked or traditional mortared fireplaces, customization is virtually limitless.
Can You Put an Outdoor Fireplace Against the House?
Yes, you can! Some design ideas feature a fireplace attached directly to the home, while others put the fireplace in the corner of the backyard or end of the patio. You’re good to go as long as the fireplace height clears your home or any structure it’s attached to (this requirement is for safety code reasons).
An outdoor fireplace idea many homeowners love is creating an outdoor living room with a stone fireplace as the centerpiece. It provides an ideal place to sit and relax after a long workday or entertain the family during a party.
Finding the perfect spot for your custom stone fireplace isn’t the only consideration you need to make. You also need to think about the size you want, and that’s largely dependent on your existing outdoor space. For instance, if you already have a patio in place, we’ll likely have to cut a portion away to lay a foundation for the fireplace properly.
If you’re unsure of where to put your fireplace or how big to make it, finding pictures on the internet can help spark some ideas. Check out some of our projects below for examples of outdoor fireplace placements, or view our entire inspiration gallery!
What’s the Best Material to Use for an Outdoor Fireplace?
As professional stonemasons, we craft all our fireplaces (and other projects) from natural stone, including Pennsylvania fieldstone, brick, ledge rock, sandstone, and limestone.
Pennsylvania Fieldstone
The most common and favored stone we use is Pennsylvania fieldstone, but we can work with your preference. When you get an outdoor fireplace designed by the experts at Duchies Stoneworks, you’ll get a high-quality wood-burning or gas-powered fireplace that blends perfectly with the rest of your landscape design.
Fieldstone offers a rustic look and feel, perfect for creating a countryside ambiance in your yard. This stone type is naturally weathered, providing a unique texture and a mix of earthy colors that can blend seamlessly with your landscape.
Brick
Brick is another common material we use when building fireplaces or outdoor ovens—it all comes down to what look or aesthetic you want to achieve. Natural stone can look modern or historical, depending on your chosen stone, while brick gives off a more traditional feel.
Ledge Rock
Ledge rock is known for its horizontal layering and can add a sleek, modern aesthetic to your outdoor fireplace. It is a versatile option that can be used in both dry-stacked and mortared designs, depending on your preference.
Sandstone
Sandstone is a durable and attractive option, available in a range of colors from golden hues to rich browns. It creates an inviting and warm atmosphere, ideal for cozy evenings outdoors.
Limestone
Limestone is prized for its natural beauty and durability. Its tranquil blues and grays can create a calming and sophisticated outdoor space. Limestone is also suitable for both rustic and formal designs.
Here are a few examples of outdoor fireplace ideas to help inspire you, including some fireplaces in covered outdoor living rooms complete with seating areas.
What Details Can I Add to Get a Completely Customed Fireplace?
Outdoor fireplaces can range from extremely simple to very elaborate and ornate. But adding fireplace features or details can make it unique.
We always suggest adding shoulders (see in the first photo below) to fireplaces to give them a more traditional look. Shoulders and flagstone caps can also be more aesthetically pleasing for any outdoor space.
There are also mantels, which would be made of stone on an outdoor fireplace. Outdoor fireplace mantels are a perfect place to put potted plants or other small décor items. Including a large stone hearth is also a popular option, and it can be as simple or decorative as you like.
Consider adding built-in features like lighting within the stonework to enhance your fireplace’s visual appeal and functionality. A well-lit fireplace can serve as a stunning focal point in your yard, drawing attention and admiration from guests.
Wood boxes and fireplace backs
Another stylistic recommendation we like to make here at Dutchies is to add one or two wood boxes to the side of your fireplace. These give you a place to keep your fireplace wood nice and dry while still keeping it near where you will use it. Our wood boxes come in three sizes—36″, 42″, and 48″—and are all custom-built.
The fire brick we use in our fireplaces’ backs can also be laid out in two different patterns: herringbone or running-bond. Check out a few more photos below to see examples!
How Do I Maintain My Outdoor Fireplace?
Maintaining an outdoor stone fireplace is crucial to ensuring it stays beautiful and functional for years to come. Here are some essential maintenance tips to keep your fireplace in top condition:
- Regular Cleaning
- Ash and Debris: For wood-burning fireplaces, clean out ash and debris after each use. Use a fireplace shovel and brush to remove ash and ensure the firebox is clear.
- Stone Surface: Gently sweep the stone surface to remove dirt and dust. Use a soft brush and mild soap solution to clean stubborn stains.
- Sealing the Stone
- Frequency: Seal your stone fireplace every 1-2 years to protect it from moisture and staining. The frequency may vary based on the stone type and environmental exposure.
- Inspect for Damage
- Cracks and Chips: Regularly inspect the stonework for cracks or chips. Address any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.
- Mortar Joints: Check the mortar joints and repair any crumbling or gaps using a suitable mortar mix.
- Weather Protection
- Covering: Use a weatherproof cover when the fireplace is not in use, especially during harsh weather conditions.
- Shelter: If possible, incorporate a roof or pergola to shield the fireplace from direct exposure to rain and snow.
- Gas Fireplace Maintenance
- Burner Inspection: Ensure the gas burner is free of debris and check for any blockages. Schedule annual inspections by a professional to ensure safe operation.
- Gas Connections: Check gas connections for leaks and make sure the vents are clear. Turn off the gas supply when the fireplace is not in use for extended periods.
- Seasonal Preparation
- Spring and Fall: Perform a thorough inspection and cleaning at the beginning and end of the fire season. This check helps in addressing any issues that might have developed over the winter or summer.
- Application: Call us to seal your stone and use a high-quality stone sealant on it.
Following these maintenance tips, you can enjoy a stunning and functional stone fireplace that adds warmth and charm to your outdoor living space for many years.
Answers to Your Custom Stone Fireplace FAQs
While having some great outdoor fireplace ideas is fantastic to get your creative juices flowing, there are also some more practical concerns you may have about installing a custom fireplace into your landscape architecture. Let’s review some of the top questions about outdoor fireplaces.
1. Is An Outdoor Fireplace Worth It?
Many homeowners ask this question, wondering if adding an outdoor fireplace will enhance their home value. They don’t want to invest a lot of money into a custom stone feature without knowing if they’ll get an adequate return on their investment. At Dutchies Stoneworks, we understand this concern. And we’d like to reassure you that chances are an outdoor fireplace is worth the investment.
An outdoor fireplace blends practicality with entertainment, providing a natural gathering place for family and friends on special occasions and the everyday hangout. It is also a hugely popular element of outdoor design. If you’re planning to sell your house in the future, having an outdoor fireplace can be a huge selling point.
2. Which is Better – An Outdoor Fireplace or a Fire Pit?
Fire pits or other fire features also bring people together and give you more space to gather around the fire. They are also minimal maintenance. On the other hand, fireplaces can be a stunning focal point, allowing you to cook and decorate your patio with elegance. The choice is really up to you and how you envision your home design.
If you need help deciding between the two, the experts at Dutchies Stoneworks can help! We’ve created hundreds of beautiful stone fire pits, fire tables, and outdoor fireplaces. Our team can help you design the paradise you’ve always wanted, so just give us a call to get started!
3. How Do You Fuel an Outdoor Fireplace?
You can choose between a wood-burning or gas-burning fireplace when you get a custom-crafted stone fireplace from Dutchies Stoneworks. A wood-burning fireplace uses logs you’ll have to keep chopped into firewood and stored dry for easy burning. A gas-burning fireplace turns on with the touch of a switch. No matter what you choose, Dutchies can handle everything from start to finish.
4. Do Outdoor Fireplaces Need a Chimney?
If your outdoor fireplace ideas center on a wood-burning fireplace, you need a chimney. A fireplace that uses wood for fuel requires a vent that can provide an excellent draft to let the fire burn correctly. On the other hand, a fireplace that uses gas only requires venting and a gas line.
5. What Is the Installation Process for an Outdoor Stone Fireplace?
The installation process for an outdoor stone fireplace involves several key steps, each requiring careful planning and execution to ensure a safe and visually appealing result.
- Site Prep: The first step is site selection and preparation. Choosing a location that is both aesthetically pleasing and safe is essential, considering factors such as wind direction and distance from flammable materials. Once the site is selected, the area needs to be cleared and leveled.
- Lay the Foundation: Next, the foundation is laid. This step typically involves digging a trench to the required depth and filling it with a stable base material like gravel, followed by concrete pouring to form a solid footing. The foundation must be treated appropriately before proceeding to the next step.
- Construction: After the foundation is set, the construction phase begins. The stone fireplace structure is built according to the design plan, starting from the base and moving upwards. Depending on the chosen style, stones can be dry-stacked or mortared. Each stone must be carefully placed to ensure structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. During this stage, any additional features like wood boxes or seating areas can be integrated.
- Finishing Touches: The final step involves finishing touches and inspection. This stage includes adding the chimney cap, grates, and other finishing elements. Once construction is complete, a thorough inspection is necessary to ensure everything is solid and safe. Any required permits should be obtained, and local building codes must be adhered to. This process, while detailed, results in a stunning and functional outdoor stone fireplace that enhances the beauty and utility of your outdoor living space.
6. Are Outdoor Fireplaces Safe?
Outdoor fireplaces can be safe when installed and used correctly, but following safety guidelines to mitigate risks is crucial. One of the primary safety concerns is the potential for fire hazards. Positioning the fireplace at a safe distance from flammable structures, trees, and other materials is essential. Using fire-resistant materials for the surrounding area, such as stone or concrete, further reduces the risk of unintended fires.
Proper maintenance is another critical aspect of safety. For wood-burning fireplaces, the regular removal of ash and debris prevents buildup that could ignite unexpectedly. Gas fireplaces require periodic inspection by a professional to ensure that connections are secure and that there are no gas leaks. It is also essential to use the fireplace as intended, avoiding burning inappropriate materials that could produce dangerous fumes or excessive sparks.
Supervising the fireplace while in use is crucial. Never leave a burning fire unattended, and ensure a fire extinguisher or water source is readily available in case of emergencies. Additionally, teaching family members, including children, about fireplace safety can prevent accidents.
Ready to Turn Your Outdoor Fireplace Ideas Into Reality?
Whether your home was designed in the 1950s and you’re ready to bring it into the new millennium, or you want to craft a custom stone paradise for restoration and relaxation in the backyard of your brand-new structure, an outdoor fireplace is a perfect addition! Let’s take your outdoor fireplace ideas and watch them come to life.
With more than 70 years of combined experience, our stone masonry experts have brought quality outdoor fireplaces, patios, outdoor kitchens with pizza ovens, retaining walls, and more to the southeastern Pennsylvania area. We work on every job like it’s our own home, and we’re excited to help you add a touch of warmth to your space with a custom stone fireplace.
Contact us today to get started or ask questions about how we can help you with your next project.