If you are looking for ways to improve your backyard or property, then consider getting an outdoor fireplace. Here are just a few benefits of having an outdoor fireplace installed:

  • It can greatly improve the curb appeal of your Milwaukee area home, which can can make it easier to sell should you ever decide to put it on the market.
  • It can improve your enjoyment of your home, giving you the opportunity to make more use of your backyard than ever before, especially during the colder months of the year.

Here are a few basic guidelines for choosing and installing an outdoor fireplace:

  • Space – The first thing you need to do is figure out where in your yard you want to put an outdoor fireplace. Not only should it be in an area that’s easily accessible and that creates a big visual impact, but it should be in an area that is safe too. You don’t want the outdoor fireplace to be a fire hazard to your home or to your neighbor’s home. When you’ve chosen a location, check out any local building codes to be sure that you will be in compliance.
  • Size – The two biggest factors concerning what size outdoor fireplace is right for you is your budget and how much space you have available. For smaller areas and budgets, a fire pit is the perfect choice. If your budget and space is a little more flexible, keep in mind that a larger outdoor fireplace will create a bigger focal point but it will also be more expensive to install and remove (should you ever want to have your outdoor fireplace removed).
  • Shape – While most outdoor fireplaces are rectangular, other shapes — like square, oval and round outdoor fireplaces — are available too. Whatever fireplace installer you choose will need to take precise measurements of the shape of the shape and size of your new outdoor fireplace in order to figure what materials will be needed to construct it.
  • Fuel – There are two main options: fuel and wood burning. While wood burning fireplaces tend to cost less to operate, they are also much less efficient than gas fired fireplaces. Wood burning fireplaces also require chimneys, otherwise their fires do not burn properly. If you choose a gas fireplace, remember that you’ll need to ventilate it properly.
  • Material – The material you choose for your outdoor fireplace depends largely on the style that you want, which means that it basically comes down to personal taste. Most outdoor fireplaces tend to be constructed out of masonry brick or stone, and use aluminum ally or cast iron for the interior. For a more affordable option, consider choosing an outdoor fireplace kit that provides a prefabricated masonry fireplace that is relatively easy to assemble.

Having an outdoor fireplace installed in your yard is a wonderful way to improve the look and enjoyment of your home year round. If you’ve decided to boost your home’s curb appeal by building a new outdoor fireplace, be sure to find a fireplace contractor that you can trust to help you explore your options — because there are many to choose from!