How To Build An Outdoor Fireplace Out Of Brick

How to Build an Outdoor Fireplace Out of Brick

An outdoor fireplace can be a beautiful and functional addition to any backyard. It provides a warm and inviting gathering place for family and friends, and it can also be a source of heat for those chilly evenings. Building an outdoor fireplace can be a rewarding project, but it requires careful planning and execution. This article outlines the essential steps to create a durable and attractive brick fireplace.

Planning and Design

Before embarking on construction, it is essential to plan and design the outdoor fireplace. This involves determining the desired size, shape, and functionality of the fireplace. The first step is to decide on the size and shape of the fireplace. This will depend on the available space and the intended use. A small fireplace is suitable for intimate gatherings, while larger fireplaces are better for bigger groups. The shape of the fireplace can be rectangular, circular, or even more elaborate. It is also important to consider the functionality of the fireplace. Will it be used for cooking or just for warmth? If it will be used for cooking, then it will need a larger firebox and a grate or spit.

The next step is to choose the location for the fireplace. This will depend on factors such as proximity to the house, access to utilities, and drainage. It is important to choose a location that is level and well-drained. The fireplace should also be located at a safe distance from flammable materials, such as trees or shrubs.

Once the location has been chosen, you will need to obtain the necessary permits. This will vary depending on your location, so it is essential to contact your local building department to learn more. The building department will likely require you to submit plans for the fireplace, along with a permit application.

Materials and Tools

After the planning stage, the next step is to gather the necessary materials and tools. This includes:

Bricks: Choose firebricks for the firebox and regular bricks for the structure. Firebricks can withstand high temperatures without cracking.
Mortar: A mortar mix specifically designed for outdoor fireplaces is recommended. Mortar is a mixture of cement, sand, and water that binds the bricks together.
Concrete: This creates a solid foundation.
Rebar: Steel rods that reinforce the concrete foundation.
Sand: Used for bedding the bricks.
Level: This is crucial for ensuring a level foundation for the fireplace.
Masonry trowel: Used for applying mortar.
Rubber mallet: This is used to tap the bricks into place.
Measuring tape: Use this to make accurate measurements when laying out the fireplace.
Safety goggles: Eye protection is essential when working with mortar and bricks.
Work gloves: Always wear gloves when handling bricks and mortar.

Construction

The construction of the fireplace is a multi-step process that requires patience and attention to detail.

Step 1: Preparing the Foundation

The foundation is the most crucial part of the fireplace as it provides a solid base for the structure. The foundation should be laid on a level surface and must be at least 6 inches deep. Here are the steps:

Dig a hole for the foundation, making it slightly larger than the footprint of the fireplace.
Pour a 4-inch layer of gravel into the hole. Compact the gravel to provide a stable base.
Set up your formwork. This is a temporary structure that holds the concrete in place as it dries.
Place rebar in the formwork to reinforce the concrete. The rebar should be at least 1/2 inch in diameter.
Pour wet concrete into the formwork and level it. Ensure the concrete is level using a spirit level.
Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24 hours before proceeding.

Step 2: Building the Firebox

The firebox is the heart of the fireplace. It must be built with firebricks to withstand the high temperatures of a fire. Here are the steps:

Lay down a layer of mortar on the foundation. This will serve as the base for the firebox.
Place the firebricks on the mortar base, ensuring they are level.
Spread mortar on the top of the firebricks and lay another layer of firebricks on top of the mortar.
Continue laying the firebricks in this manner until the firebox reaches the desired height. The firebox should be slightly taller than the hearth.
Build the firebox walls to your desired shape and create an opening for the fire. The firebox opening should be large enough to accommodate the size of logs you plan to burn.
Once the firebox is complete, allow the mortar to cure for at least 24 hours before proceeding.

Step 3: Building the Hearth

The hearth is the area in front of the fireplace where you will place the fire. It should be wide enough to accommodate the size of the firebox. Here are the steps:

Lay down a layer of mortar on top of the firebox. This will serve as the base for the hearth.
Place the hearth bricks on the mortar base, ensuring they are level.
Spread mortar on the top of the hearth bricks and lay another layer of bricks on top of the mortar.
Continue laying the bricks in this manner until the hearth reaches the desired height. It should be at least 12 inches wide and deep enough to accommodate the size of the firebox.
Allow the mortar to cure for at least 24 hours before proceeding.

Step 4: Building the Chimney

The chimney is essential for drawing smoke from the fireplace. It should be at least 10 feet tall and have a flue that is at least 8 inches in diameter. Here are the steps:

Lay down a layer of mortar on top of the hearth. This will serve as the base for the chimney.
Place the bricks on the mortar base, ensuring they are level. Start building the chimney by laying bricks in a vertical pattern.
Continue building the chimney, gradually tapering the flue opening toward the top.
As you build, ensure the chimney is plumb and level. This is important for proper draft and smoke evacuation.
The chimney should be at least 10 feet tall and have a flue that is at least 8 inches in diameter. The flue should also be lined with fire clay to prevent the chimney from cracking due to high temperatures.
Cap the chimney with a metal or brick cap to prevent rain and debris from entering the flue.
Allow the mortar to cure for at least 24 hours before proceeding.

Step 5: Building the Mantel

The mantel is the decorative shelf that sits above the fireplace. It can be made of wood, stone, or brick.

After the chimney is built, lay a layer of mortar on top of the chimney. This will serve as the base for the mantel.
Place the mantel bricks on the mortar base, ensuring they are level.
Spread mortar on the top of the mantel bricks and lay the mantel shelf on top of the mortar.
Secure the mantel shelf to the fireplace using brackets.
Allow the mortar to cure for at least 24 hours before proceeding.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once the fireplace is complete, you can add finishing touches such as a screen, a grate, and a hearth rug.

A fireplace screen is a safety feature that prevents sparks and embers from escaping the fireplace.
A grate is a metal frame that sits over the firebox and supports the logs.
A hearth rug is a decorative rug that protects the floor from embers and soot.

Building an outdoor fireplace is a challenging but rewarding project. By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and functional fireplace that will enhance your backyard for many years to come. Remember to follow all local safety regulations and building codes. Consulting with a professional mason can provide expert guidance and ensure your fireplace meets safety standards.