Five Quick Steps To Install Outdoor Fireplaces
Outdoor fireplaces can extend the usefulness of your yard into the late autumn or early spring. Enjoying a crackling fire outside under the stars, can be a great way of entertaining guests and enhancing your patio. Following are the five steps necessary to install an outdoor fireplace.
1 – Are there any ordinances where you live that place restrictions on an outdoor fireplace? This is one of the most important steps, and must be considered through each stage of the process. It may be difficult or impossible to meet an ordinance after everything is in place, and these ordinances are often in place to protect you and your neighbors from an out-of-control fire.
2 – Where do you want to place your fireplace? As mentioned previously, you should consider any local ordinances when making this decision. Your placement decision may require you to remove trees and shrubs from the area, so your new fireplace doesn’t pose a threat to your house or those of your neighbors.
3 – When you are choosing a fireplace, be sure that it meets any local codes. There are pre-built fireplaces that are constructed with all codes and ordinances in mind, leaving you to simply install them. If you fancy yourself a mason, you may be able to save a substantial amount of money by constructing your fireplace yourself, but this course should not be taken lightly. A poorly-constructed fireplace can come back to haunt you when you try to sell your home. If it can’t pass inspection, it may have to be removed (which could be expensive), adding to the cost of selling your house.
4 – Preparation of the area may require you to clear any trees, bushes or shrubs from the area. Depending on local ordinances, you may be required to lay a foundation for your fireplace to provide a fire-proof barrier to protect your home and your neighbors’ homes. It may be worth considering laying a foundation anyway, as it improves the appearance of your new fireplace and provides a great surface for seating and tables while you are enjoying it.
5 – Construct or install your fireplace, keeping all codes and ordinances in mind. Remember: a properly constructed fireplace may add to the value of your home; however, an improperly installed fireplace could make it impossible for your home to pass an inspection, making it very difficult to sell your home in the future.
Outdoor fireplaces can be a wonderful addition to your home, if implemented properly. With the five steps (above), you will be able to enjoy a roaring fire under the stars in no time.
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