How to Design the Perfect Firepit or Fireplace
Firepits and outdoor fireplaces can be a great addition to any outdoor space, especially when coupled with an extraordinary deck or patio design. Knowing that you’ll want a firepit or fireplace in your backyard will help you design the rest of your outdoor living space elements.
Let’s talk about designing firepits and fireplaces and incorporating them into your other patio, deck, and structure designs.
How Will Your Firepit or Fireplace Fit Into Your Design Vision?
Considering the size of your backyard, you will need to determine the size and basic design of your firepit or fireplace in addition to the design of the surrounding area. The simplest design of a firepit is an above-ground pit that can be moved. Many of these designs are compact enough to fit on a small patio and portable enough to keep if you decide to move.
Simple yet permanent fire pits are an inexpensive way to add a luxury detail to your home or outdoor space. These additions can have creative designs, including structures like a pergola or a large custom outdoor kitchen. If you’re installing a new deck or patio, you’ll want to consider how you’ll incorporate your firepit and other structures to create a seamless outdoor living space.
On the other hand, outdoor fireplaces look like indoor ones, often including a chimney. While these kinds of fireplaces are expensive and require a larger outdoor space, they add immense value to your home while creating a very unique aesthetic. You might even choose to build them into a retaining wall to define the seating space further and create a cozy environment.
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Considering Materials and Labor
Depending on your vision, certain materials will work better than others. Smaller fire pits have the flexibility of many material options. The smaller moveable fire pits are often made of copper, steel, or other lighter metals that will not melt with the heat of a fire. They also require less work as they are mainly assembled and ready to be used immediately. There are many style options on the market for creating anything from a rustic to a modern aesthetic.
Permanent fire pits or fireplaces may require more materials and more work, but they’re a blank slate for any design ideas you have. Many homeowners choose to build their firepits or fireplaces primarily with stone or brick, but other materials are required for the interior and foundation of your fireplace or permanent firepit. Consult your contractor for options that will best fit your vision and budget.
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Remember: Safety Comes First
When you’re coming up with your design, it’s most important to remember that firepits and fireplaces are a safety hazard. You’ll want to learn about all the safety precautions before developing your backyard design. Otherwise, you may be disappointed.
All fire pits should be at least ten to fifteen feet away from any home or structure that is flammable. These fire pits should also be placed on rock, gravel, brick, or another non-flammable surface. Do not place a fire pit on grass as it could easily cause a fire. If you have a deck or structure in your yard, you’ll also want to keep in mind what kind of materials they are made of and how far away they need to be from the fire.
Depending on your town or locality, there will be different fire regulations. Make sure you consult your contractor and your local laws or fire department to make sure you are staying within the legal regulations for township fire safety.
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Cozy Up With Your New Fire Pit
There are endless options when it comes to designing an outdoor fireplace or firepit area. As always, keep safety at the top of your list as you consider designs and locations.
Contact Advance Inc. to discuss your fire pit design and regulations in your area.