Tag Archives: outdoor fireplace design

Benefits of Using Blocks in Masonry Projects

Despite everything, most people prefer bricks to blocks because of cost. The strong, durable, and stylish blocks are an excellent choice for outdoor and indoor areas. They are a great option for a lot of homeowners and builders because of their incredible features and benefits. A masonry contractor will tell you that blocks have benefits you are going to love. In addition, masonry blocks are known for withstanding tough and unpredictable weather conditions while they are providing a sleek and stylish façade.

Masonry blocks can be a timeless material that has been around for so long and will keep making its mark on residential and commercial buildings. If you want to know more about the reasons why blocks are good in masonry projects, read on.

Resistant to Elements

A lot of residential and commercial property owners want to construct their businesses or home with concrete blocks due to their great ability to resist damage. Blocks can beat out traditional materials such as wood in terms of durability because wood is able to attract mildew and rot in areas that go through extended periods of moisture. It comprises the structure stability over time. Extreme weather causes significant damage, but block structures are able to withstand winds of more than 200 miles an hour and fire because cement is not flammable.

Aesthetically Pleasing and Versatile

Masonry blocks have an unmatched design versatility, which allows you to make beautiful architectural choices for a commercial or residential project. They are in different colors, sizes, shapes, and textures to suit different preferences. They are versatile and nice to look at, but you do not have to worry about the upkeep. Masonry can offer long-lasting beauty, which requires less maintenance compared to other building materials.

Durable and Easy to Maintain

Concrete masonry has been used in buildings ever since time began, the durability and material design longevity is unmatched with a long life expectancy that expands to over 100 years. Concrete masonry can stand up to termites, UV degradation, extreme temperatures, and heavy storms. It is made using non-combustible materials, and these blocks are very ideal for fire-prone areas. In addition, they do not rust, corrode, warp, or are susceptible to mold, which makes them extremely resilient for ages.

Conserves Energy

Block structures are reliable when it comes to energy conservation since they have many thermal masses. The block of insulation can provide warm air from the heater and cold air from an air conditioner will not easily escape the home or business, which helps to keep your energy costs low. The concrete home density can also soundproof space, which makes it an option for property owners who want to minimize noise pollution.

Friendly to the Environment

Masonry work is resistant to fire, mold, wind, pests water damage, and other torrential weather conditions. Masonry clay blocks have more heat resistance compared to regular blocks while they are a fired, ceramic material. Masonry blocks are helpful in keeping fires contained while preventing structure losses. The reason behind this is that materials can survive extreme temperatures.

Lifetime Design

When trends come and go, masonry blocks can surpass time and offers you a timeless look. In the past, bricks are normally leaning towards the industrial aesthetic, but their unmatched flexibility can offer designers and architects a chance to show their expertise and style. When you compare the raw tactility of brick with contemporary tones and other elements, concrete blocks are ideal when you want to create a captivating statement.

You can contact stone patio contractor Long Island anytime when you want a good masonry construction done.

Outdoor Kitchen Design Tips

With cooking, the majority of meals you would normally make inside can be cooked in an outdoor kitchen. There are times when the favorite foods can taste better when they are prepared using outdoor appliances. With tempting flavors and aromas, barbecues can add a new element to your normal meals.

Outdoor cooking is not limited to simple propane and charcoal grills that a lot of people are used to. Modern kitchens are designed for the patio featuring high-tech appliances and sophisticated components that creates a luxurious space that is easy to use. Even outdoor kitchen builders will tell you that this is one of the best features you will have.

Here are tips you can follow:

You can Extend the Living Space

Among the great benefits of an outdoor kitchen is it extends the living and entertaining space. Use up the additional space by planning the shade, warmth, and shelter.

During the summer months, a shaded kitchen would mean that entertaining and cooking are better. In order to provide shelter and shade, you can plant some trees nearby or incorporate a pergola or an awning when you have it built. For the seating area, go for a patio umbrella.

Functional Area

Like in an interior kitchen, a thoughtfully-designed outdoor kitchen makes sure that the layout is functional.

Do you have enough room between the barbecue and dining area in order to cook comfortably? Is there enough bench space to place food, utensils, and condiments while cooking? Do you plan to wash up outside? Do you require a beverage fridge? Can you install ventilation?

Choose Between Portable and Permanent Options

If you plan or rent to move in the next couple of years, you should equip the outdoor kitchen with appliances and features that you can easily move. For instance, you can pair a standalone grill with portable carts that you can use as DIY counters or barbecue islands.

In case you do not see yourself moving or you just love home improvement projects, then an outdoor kitchen might be the project for you. Determine a safe and convenient location, then you should start thinking about materials that coordinate with the exterior of your home that is available locally.

Equipment

Choosing the appliance is one step when it comes to designing an outdoor kitchen where people are excited about barbecue lovers. However, beyond choosing if you have built-in hot plates and grills, a wok burner or wood fire oven are a few things to consider.

You would want to make sure that the equipment is made using a material that is weatherproof and easy to clean. You would have to consider what services you can access like gas, electricity, and water.

It is also worth questioning how often you are going to utilize the equipment before splurging – a cocktail station can theoretically sound great, but is that how you normally entertain?

Consider Surroundings

An outdoor kitchen is an extension of the indoor living space. It also requires that you fit into the yard and the area that surrounds it. While you brainstorm the design, think about the home’s exterior. Choose textures and colors that complement or extend that style.

You Should Commit to Proper Maintenance

An outdoor kitchen is exposed to different elements. Even if you do not often use it, the surfaces and appliances would have to be maintained and covered to withstand the changing weather. In different regions, your appliances would have to be regularly cleaned to get rid of buildups of salt from the ocean air.

You can contact outdoor kitchen contractors Long Island anytime once you are ready.

 

 

How to Choose Patio Furniture

During the summer, you are reminded that you invest in good patio furniture. When the rain pours on those pieces, and there is strong howling wind, they should not crack or get destroyed no matter what season it is. That is the importance of outdoor furniture, its make-up, and its material.

There are a lot of great materials you can choose from. However, it would be hard to determine the best such as your location and lifestyle. If you want to make the best investment, you should consider the advantages and disadvantages. The money you spent on a stone patio contractor is more worth it if you buy good quality furniture. Here are tips on how to choose them:

List Your Patio Furniture Needs

You should start by thinking of how you would want your outdoor space to work. For instance, are you thinking of turning it into an outdoor dining area where you can spend summer nights or parties? You can also turn it into a peaceful and comfortable area where you can just read a good book.

You should list the activities you want to do in the space so you will know what kind of patio furniture you need.

Teak

Teak is a very popular choice for outdoor patio furniture. There is a good reason behind it as Teak is made of all-weather material. It has the strength to withstand even the harshest conditions, and it has unparalleled aesthetics with a beautiful and warm tone. Teak has natural resin and high oil content, which makes it more resistant to impermeable water and insect attacks. The oils can also protect the wood from dry rot, which makes teak a long-lasting and strong option for outdoor furniture.

Choosing the Material

When you shop for furniture, you must choose materials that are easy to care for and pieces that can complement the feel or look of your home and landscape. There are plenty of options.

  • Natural wood – This is comfortable and sturdy, but you have to maintain it regularly and apply preservative treatments for UV and weather protection.
  • Steel and Wrought Iron – These materials are very strong, but it needs cushions for better comfort. They are excellent for outdoors, but you need to have them treated or painted periodically to prevent rusting.
  • Wicker and rattan – Natural materials such as wicker and rattan give you a comfortable and casual look, but they will need weatherproofing every couple of years.
  • Plastic, PVC, and Aluminum – These are inexpensive, lightweight rust-proof, and require easy maintenance with just soap and water. Due to their lightweight construction, you might have to secure them if there are storms and strong winds.

Before Buying, Try the Seating

When you shop for sofas and patio chairs, you should try it out before buying. Patio furniture is going to be likely used regularly, especially in the warmer months, so it is important that you have comfortable seating. You will not enjoy the patio if you mix it with ugly furniture. You must look for pieces with plush cushion seats, backs, or cozy metal and wood furniture using the fluffy pillow for the best comfort.

Concrete

It used to be just a building material, but concrete is now becoming the main material in outdoor patio design. Since it is strong and durable, concrete furniture also provides a sleek and aesthetically pleasing look.

Since concrete is heavy, porous, and prone to staining, you can choose blends of fiberglass and concrete or lighter resin to protect the surface from stains.

You can call outdoor kitchen contractors Long Island to build the patio you have been dreaming of.

 

Signs that Your Swimming Pool Should be Repaired

You should consider yourself fortunate if you have a swimming pool in the backyard. When the heat gets high, all you can do is wear a bathing suit before jumping into the pool. When you do proper care and maintenance, you can have a perfectly functioning swimming pool for a long time.

Even if you do consistent maintenance, you cannot stop the march of time, since time will always affect everything you own, which includes your swimming pool. While older pools can fall into disrepair, some water pools can show some damage for any reason.

You do not want to call the pool masonry contractors too often because you are not taking care of your pool.

Heater is Malfunctioning

In case the water in your swimming pool is cold, it probably will come as no surprise that your heater is not working properly. This could be because of a couple of things. Blocked pipes might be reducing water flow to the heater. Another option is the heater gets water and airflow, but the controls are malfunctioning. You can see the way one problem can exacerbate another, which means a professional in the pool service repair industry can save you money because it minimizes damage.

Cracks on the Wall

When the walls of the concrete swimming pool are starting to show cracks, you will have a problem that requires immediate attention. Most of the time, cracks could lead to water leakages, which wastewater weakens and erodes the soil that surrounds the entire structure. You would also have to get the services of a reliable pool repair company in order to fix this problem, which can be because of poor structural design, using sub-standard cement, and insufficient sealing.

Broken Lightings

Broken lights are normally easy to fix, but that is not the case when they are swimming lights. The broken swimming pool lights easily leave your pool out of action when it is sunny, and they are going to make your pool look unattractive.

You should hire an expert to fix the swimming pool lights because if electricity is mixed with water, it causes hazards. Different things can cause your swimming pool lights to break, like a tripped breaker.

Peeling Plaster

Pools that have a plaster surface look good, but you should keep in mind that the chemicals you use for cleaning and freshening the water should be mixed properly, or the plaster of the pool will erode. You will know that your plaster surface gets eroded when the plaster is wearing thin in some areas, and other parts crack or peel away. When these things worsen, you should call your pool contractor right away to drain it out, and assess the level of damage.

Maintains the Hardware of Your Pool

Pools are a great investment for a lot of people, and the last thing that people want is damaged hardware.

However, damaged hardware is prevalent in a poorly maintained swimming pool. This is because the swimming pool hardware must work harder when a homeowner does not have a regular repair service to call.

Among the most important ways to maintain the hardware of your pool is to keep the debris out of the pool’s filter. You can make it a daily habit if you want to remove this debris, which ensures that your filter will continue to work smoothly. If you make it a daily habit to remove the debris, you need to ensure that your filter continues working smoothly.

You can talk to pool design contractor Long Island anytime if you need a pool repair.

 

Why You Should Upgrade Your Fireplace

stone outdoor fireplaces

There are a lot of reasons why you should upgrade your fireplace and you can contact outdoor kitchen builders if you have it outside. A fireplace supplies heat to your home, but it has become a focal point that adds more ambiance when you light it up. Through the years, a wood-burning fireplace could become less efficient over time, and it is a hassle when it comes to maintaining the mess and dirt it produces. The older fireplaces might have inherited the design flaws, which make using them more difficult than it is.

It is not ideal to get rid of your fireplace because the room will lose character, and there are several reasons why you should upgrade your fireplace.

It is Your Home’s Focal Point

Maybe this is the main reason why your indoor or outdoor fireplace should be upgraded. Regardless of what room the fireplace is in, it is the main attraction is your fireplace because your eyes are immediately drawn to it. During the holidays, the fireplace gets decorated. It becomes the main attraction. When you think about that, you do not want something that everyone else has, and you want to upgrade the fireplace to something that stands out.

Saves You Money

There are a lot of ways to save money today, but reducing energy costs is the best. If you upgrade to a fireplace insert or stove, it is going to reduce your monthly heating expenses significantly. Most efficiency levels of inserts run between 80% – 90%, which means 90% of fuel heats up your home. The older traditional fireplaces are only within 50% to 60% efficient.

The higher levels of efficiency reduce the monthly heating expenses significantly. It can cost up to $100 or more every month for some people.

Efficiency

The heating stoves and fireplace inserts are subject to EPA standards, which make them more efficient compared to traditional options. Putting an insert means a higher heat percentage going back into your home, instead of escaping through the chimney. The certified wood-burning inserts can be 70% more efficient than the alternatives, and heating inserts are 83% efficient. You should not miss the great options to add spice to your home.

Zone Heating

Zone heating is another huge reason to upgrade your fireplace when you build your home. A lot of people are unaware that using a furnace alone to heat your home is not the best method, but adding a good quality fireplace is a secondary heat source, which is why you should keep the thermostat down. However, make sure that the main room has a consistently comfortable temperature. This will help keep the costs down since the rooms are not used for unnecessary heating, but with just a furnace, the rooms are kept at a consistent temperature.

Safer Home Environment

A proper fireplace with a good design keeps your home safer from any fire hazard. The truth is, a well-designed and installed wood-burning or gas fireplace actually decreases the chance of fires in the living room while it is used.

One of the most common causes of home fires is because of heating equipment. A properly installed and designed fireplace provides more safety compared to what you will have in your room.

Needs Lesser Maintenance

A new fireplace heats up your home with lesser work, especially if you compare it to the traditional wood—burning stoves. A gas insert does not require a lot of tending from you, which is why you need to upgrade it.

You can call pool masonry contractor Long Island if you want to upgrade your fireplace anytime.

What to Consider When Choosing an Outdoor Fireplace Stone

If you are choosing the selection of the right finish or fire pit color, there are a lot of versatile choices that will convert a fire pit into a rustic centerpiece. In case you want to add flair to your fire pit projects, you can choose the right finishes.

When you remodel or build your home, among the more daunting pieces of your project is the fireplace. There is rustic, ultra-modern, and a never-ending list when you pick out the finish material but among the common material that lasted since the first fireplaces were built is choosing the right stone style. You can contact the outdoor fireplace builders anytime after you have chosen the right tiles.

Choose Fire-Safe Materials

Safety should be a first. You need to choose a stone that is able to withstand the fireplace heat. This is not a huge concern if you want to install natural gas or propane-fueled fireplace, but it is extremely important with wood-burning fireplaces. The firebox and flue should be made of fireproof cast brick, concrete blocks, or natural stone. After the firebox is set in place, stone cladding can become more decorative.

Natural or Manufactured

Stone went through a lot of change because of the stone age where you were able to pull the heaviest and biggest rock you can find to cook. Since fire pit is no longer used for cooking, people now enjoy the warmth and comfort given by fireplaces. All this happens while guests admire the new look of a freshly adorned fireplace. The initial step when it comes to choosing a new stone is between Natural and Manufactured. The manufactured stone advantages are both in purchasing and weight manufactured stone installation. Another positive thing about this is variety and a typically manufactured stone that can come in different designs and colors. The good thing about Natural stone is its beauty because there is no match to colors and variations that comes from a stone quarry. Natural stone installation is pricier, but it makes all the difference when you show off your new classic look.

Consider Your Surroundings

The color and finish of the fire put should match, complement, or contrast the existing landscape elements. You need to consider how differently an earthy color, warm, dark shade, or a deep, or cool, subtly tone affects the appearance of an outdoor area. You do not want to go overboard, but you do not want to create a dull or boring area in the fire pit. The fire pit texture and color can make it pop, which allows it to rightfully become the main feature of the hardscape. You can finish off a fire pit even further using accents and bandings of different colors that tie it in with the other spaces.

Color and Cut

You should pick the “cut” of stone where you hear fancy words such as Castle-rock, ledge cut, random height, Ashar/dimensional, or multiple blends. Each cut is very different from the huge bed stones of Castle-rock to the thin stacked modern look. The style normally comes with preference while fieldstones, random heights, and Castle-rocks are normally more rustic. The biggest tip when choosing the actual color and cut of the stone is to bring carpet and paint choice samples so that it matches the stones because this is a lot easier than checking out a stone sample. If you cannot decide while being in the design gallery, you can always ask for samples that you can take home.

You can masonry contractor Long Island if you want to have the best outdoor fireplace.

Outdoor Fireplace Ideas to Make Your Backyard More Inviting

The outdoors might seem like a strange area where you can put a fireplace. After all, these fireplaces can make a living room and mountain homes cozy, not patios, porches, and backyards. The reality is that fireplaces are only a step ahead of fire pits, and you will have a hard time putting any of them in your yard. In addition, fireplaces can be taller, wider, and bigger compared to fire pits, so adding one to an outdoor space is a great way to make a statement.

If you are going to contact a masonry contractor , you should already have an idea of what you want. You should read this article until the end to find out more.

Roof Deck Fireplace

You can create a cozy outdoor room when you incorporate a fireplace. Regardless if the space is for lounging or dining, a fireplace will serve as a focal point, feature wall, a place where you can cook, and warmth that extends to the outside of your living season.

You can match it with the style of your home and then you can add space for storing firewood and a couple of decorative pieces. If you want to be safe, make sure that the firebox is made of steel or fire-rated bricks, and then put a fire-rated flue pipe in the chimney.

Fireplace with a Covered Patio

You should not allow too much precipitation or too much sun to keep you from enjoying your fireplace or patio. A covered patio with a fireplace enhances the feel of an outdoor room and it makes your outside living room more comfortable by shielding you from the hot summer and rain. You can use the similar to same stonework on their fireplace also accents your home adding to the inclusive effect. If you want to buy instead of doing it yourself, you can read more information about it.

Stick with Vintage

If you want a rustic look, this outdoor burning fireplace is nice and cozy. It makes a statement, has enough space to burn logs, and the wide opening could mean that you are going to get a nice fire burning whenever you need it. People can visualize this kind of outdoor fireplace if they have a country house garden.

Stucco Fireplace

If you are into building an outdoor fireplace, but you are unaware of where to start, what you can do is to buy fireplace construction plans.

Each plan can follow a detailed, step-by-step method that is similar to using Legos for building but concrete blocks are used. After that, you can use the finishing material you want. The fireplace shown here is finished with stucco, which you can afford and it can be painted for more customization.

Backyard Oasis

Your fireplace does not have to be next to your house. You should go around your property and imagine if you have a backyard oasis that features an outdoor fireplace. Convert your backyard into your own sanctuary with a fire structure built into the lush landscaping. You can create a nice and private haven with vines that are climbing up the pergola that will jut off the chimney or privacy screens allowing you to relax peacefully beside the fire.

Make a Focal Point

It could be hard to not focus your attention on an outdoor fireplace when it has a trusty design and rustic finish. You need to put yours in a nice location that you can stare at and it will create an impressive ambiance for your outdoor guests.

You contact outdoor kitchen builders Long Island once you are ready with a design idea for your patio.

 

 

How to Maintain Your Outdoor Fireplace

Having an outdoor fireplace is an excellent way to extend outdoors and create a fun place where you can hang out with your guests. It creates the perfect focal point in the backyard landscape of your house, which increases its resale value. However, the right maintenance is required to make sure that the fireplace provides years of enjoyment outdoors.

After you pay for outdoor fireplace builders, you should be able to retain it properly, with a solid framework, and it looks great. Aside from that, you would have to regularly maintain it. Depending on the kind of fireplace you have, the materials, and the age, there are several requirements and maintenance that you must take.

Read on to know more.

Clean it

After using your outdoor fireplace, make sure to clean out the ashes and anything else that was combusted. Since they are exposed to a lot of elements, outdoor fireplaces will more likely develop mold or mildew problems that require cleaning. These issues are regularly taken care of so they do not grow to be unruly. Make sure that you burn safe materials in your outdoor fireplace. With regards to indoor fireplaces, you would have to watch out for creosote build-up.

You should take care of your wood as well. It is important to do proper wood storage and it prolongs the life and quality of your firewood.

 Gas Fireplace Maintenance Tips

If your outdoor fireplace is gas, you can follow these maintenance tips to make it is performing properly:

  • Before you clean a gas fireplace, make sure that the gas is off
  • You should regularly check the exhaust fan of your fireplace to make sure that it functions properly
  • Clean the burners so it is free of soot, and clean them using a cloth or a brush with soft bristles. You should always manufacture guidelines to make sure that you do not void the warranty
  • Turn off the fireplace’s pilot light if you do not plan to use it for a couple of months

Proper Ventilation Should be Maintained

Regardless of the kind of outdoor fireplace you own, make sure that the flue is clear of birds, twigs, and other obstructions. The possibility of having uninvited guests making themselves comfortable in your outdoor fireplace will increase because of the convenience and accessibility. The construction is sturdy and critters are smart when it comes to seeking shelter.

You might not realize it but the quality of air, puff-backs, or other issues are not just for indoor fireplaces. They can also happen with outdoor fireplaces. When you have poor ventilation, it can become almost impossible to keep a proper flame. Without that, there can be excess smoke. Another factor is the lack of heat and smoke rising. If the smoke is unable to flow upwards, it is going to flow back through the firebox and into your party.

Do Not Leave Flames Unattended

You cannot predict fires by nature, and all features around an outdoor fireplace increase unpredictability. A quick breeze that can send sparks flying to grass nearby, leaves, or patio furniture that can start an unwanted and destructive fire that quickly destroys your yard and your home. Therefore, you must never leave your outdoor fireplace in case of an active flame.

Once you are done, make sure to completely extinguish the outdoor fireplace. Smoldering embers stay hot all night. It is not enough to just bury hot coals because it only insulates them and lets them stay hot, so this is hazardous.

Make sure you know proper maintenance before you contact masonry contractor Long Island to have an outdoor fireplace built.

Causes of a Leaning Chimney

A leaning chimney should be addressed right away. If this issue is ignored, the loose bricks could fall on people. Pests and water can infiltrate the gap between the siding and chimney. The combustible gas can leak from the chimney going into your home when you are using the fireplace. If you think that you have a leaning chimney, you should act right away so you can protect your family and home from these standards.

You can contact the masonry contractor to check if you need to have a new one built, and remember that it is not the end of the world. However, this problem is pertinent that you need to prioritize so you can find a solution.

Here are the causes of a leaning chimney:

The Structure is Deteriorating

Those who are familiar with the freezing coldness of winter, blazing hot summer, and these weather shifts, and temperature drops can all be damaging to homes and structures. The concrete can be damaged by the temperamental weather and tends to crack. Freeze and thaw cycles can trap moisture in the base, which causes it to deteriorate quickly.

Roof Damage Close to the Chimney

Your chimney is going to extend past your roof, where the siding will transition towards the roof. While the chimney is shifting, it is going to damage the nearby area and gutter. Shingles, gutters, or other roof materials near the chimney can start to show signs of damage or they could even fall off.

In other cases, the roofing and siding can just hang off, which makes it easy to spot. However, the damage is not always obvious.

The Base is Too Small

An older home might have a couple of missteps during construction or it could have been faced with age that eroded a solid chimney to one that slowly deteriorates.

For any homeowner, this means the chimney footing is too small to carry its weight, or maybe the time has already taken a toll on its base, which is the most important part of the chimney. A sturdy footing for the chimney should have a thickness of one foot and extends six inches per side.

Gaps Between the Wall and Chimney

Aside from the damage caused by the shift in your chimney, the space it occupied in the past is going to be left open. Even a small gap can be risky, and its size increases over time.

For the larger gap, it is most likely to have moisture or other damage that can invade your home from this vulnerable and new spot. If you like to shop, you should always be on the lookout for gaps.

Soil Erosion

Water is the most damaging to any foundation, even one that is newly built. When there is moisture, it can go into crevices and cracks, weakening a structure that comes from inside and out. A chimney is not an exception to the water path with the least resistance, and one way or another, the soil and moisture that goes around the chimney’s base will wreak havoc on its structure.

This will not happen overnight, and it takes many years for the landscape around it to loosen, which causes a shift. There are some types of soil that are unable to hold the weight of the big chimneys. If the soil is too loose, it will cause the chimney’s base to shift, which results in tilting that you can easily see from the ground.

You can contact outdoor fireplace builders Long Island as well to check why your chimney is leaning so the issue can be addressed right away.

Tips for Planning an Outdoor Fireplace

Adding an outdoor fireplace to your home is a great way to utilize space and welcome people when they come in. Aside from creating a cozy and comfortable place for your friends and family, this is a beautiful feature that you can use all year round. Before you call the outdoor fireplace builders, you should know how to properly plan your fireplace. You must hire professionals to construct an outdoor fireplace. You will be part of the planning process and your role is significant. You should also determine your purpose for having an outdoor fireplace built.

If you want to know what those tips are, you can use the tips in this article. Read on to find out more.

What is the Purpose of Your Fireplace?

An outdoor fireplace is a true asset to the landscape of your home. You might want to create a living room in your outdoor area – either open-air or enclosed. Maybe you want to add a fireplace to your entertainment area. One of the main reasons why people want an outdoor fireplace is they want a cozy and warm area where they can sit and enjoy during the cold months. Those who love to cook may want an outdoor fireplace for preparing meals. The purpose of your fireplace is important in the planning process.

Choose the Right Materials

An important part of the design process is choosing the right materials. Your builder or designer will also most likely recommend that you use natural stone because it is the top-quality building material. The natural outdoor fireplace stone is durable and you can buy them in different colors, textures, and patterns, which means you will find a stone that matches your home and can fit your style.

The Right Location

When you plan the location of your outdoor fireplace, it should meet your needs for relaxation and entertainment, while you consider the potential safety issues, the appearance, and your environment is important. The fireplace must be placed near your house so it is more convenient, without causing any hazard.

If your yard is small, you might need a fireplace attached to your house, deck, or patio that allows your landscape to be your backyard’s focal point. If your yard is large, you should consider a separate patio or terrace further from your house with a huge outdoor fireplace. Your fireplace is the focal point of an outdoor setting with more space for entertaining. In addition, if you have a fireplace near your spa, pool, or hot tub, you will enjoy the warmth and light.

Wood-Burning or Gas?

Homeowners have to choose between installing a wood-burning or gas fireplace. They both have their own advantages. You should become familiar with both when planning an outdoor fireplace.

In some local places with restrictions on wood burning, gas might be the only option. Natural gas will burn cleanly. Since gas does not produce embers or ashes, it provides a safe alternative to fire. In addition, most of them do not need permission before building the fireplace. There is also no need to construct a chimney.

For a lot of people, an outdoor wood fireplace has the best ambiance and it offers a rustic charm. You can also position them anywhere as long as it complies with the building requirements. They produce enough light and heat, but with a lot of smoke. So, you need to comply with specific requirements when you build a chimney.

Once you have decided on your fireplace, you can contact masonry contractor Long Island to get the best service and achieve what you want.