Choosing the right outdoor fireplace is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when renovating your backyard. They add tons of curb appeal to your outdoor space and help you create a chic and inviting atmosphere for your family and guests.
If you’re on the fence about whether to purchase one, let this be the weekend that you dive in. Come up with a budget and sit down with your spouse to make a priority list of what you both want as an outdoor focal point.
However, there are some mistakes that buyers make that can prevent you from having a functional piece. It’s important to learn about these outdoor fireplace buying mistakes and how to avoid them.
Continue reading below for a few buy criteria to consider before choosing an outdoor fireplace.
1. Skimping on the Materials
To ensure that you have an outdoor fireplace that will last for many years, it is essential to purchase high-quality materials. If you buy low-quality materials, they can become dangerous, expensive, and time-consuming to maintain in the long term.
It can also damage the surrounding area, potentially causing hazardous risks. Before investing in an outdoor fireplace, it is essential to research the materials used, such as:
- concrete
- masonry
- stucco
Investing in the right materials will help ensure that the fireplace lasts a long time and does not deteriorate. Additionally, you should consider talking to an expert before investing in an outdoor fireplace for a person to better understand the best materials to use.
2. Not Accounting for the Weight
A freestanding outdoor fireplace is going to be significantly heavier than a tabletop or portable model. This means you’ll need to be sure you have a sturdy base and maybe even consider hiring a professional to build a mount or platform with the necessary foundation for it.
Furthermore, when considering the size of your fireplace, make sure you factor in the weight as an added factor when checking its total dimensions. This will help you determine if your selected model is too heavy to set up in your backyard. Doing your due diligence beforehand can help guarantee you won’t be faced with any surprises.
3. Ignoring Safety Features
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the aesthetics of a fireplace and forget about the risks associated with the irresponsible use of an outdoor fire source. Make sure that all safety features, such as fire screens and child-proof locks, are included with the fireplace when you make the purchase.
Have a qualified professional inspect the fireplace to ensure it is installed correctly and that proper safety procedures are being followed. Check the operation of the fireplace before use and always read the directions thoroughly before use to ensure safe operation. Make sure to follow local fire safety codes and be sure to educate those who will be using the fireplace.
4. Not Considering the Size of the Firebox
Making sure you purchase outdoor fireplace bases with an appropriate-sized firebox that is paramount for safe use. A poorly sized firebox can mean that the fire burns too quickly, leading to you having to refuel at regular intervals. A firebox that is too small can be dangerous as it may not be able to contain any sparks that are present.
Additionally, a too-small firebox can be a choking hazard as the smoke produced is trapped relatively close to the flame. When purchasing outdoor fireplaces, make sure to consider the size of the firebox and purchase one that fits your outdoor space.
5. Purchasing Without a Fuel Source
Many customers find themselves in the position of having purchased an outdoor fireplace only to find that the fuel source is not available or suitable for the installation. It’s important to make sure that suitable fuel sources include things like:
- natural gas
- liquid propane
- wood
This is especially important for those living in suburban or urban environments where the infrastructure may not be there to support a certain fuel source. It’s always important to research the fuel source availability beforehand to ensure the proper fuel source is available and accessible for your home.
6. Failing to Make an Airtight Seal
Without an airtight seal, smoke and ash will escape, creating a dangerous and potentially hazardous atmosphere. To prevent this from happening, the proper mortar and sealant should always be used before the construction of the fireplace is complete.
Additionally, regular checking of the mortar and sealant should be done to ensure an airtight seal is maintained. Professionals can also perform regular preventive maintenance to ensure these areas are properly and securely sealed.
This practice will ensure the safety and longevity of the outdoor fireplace and its surrounding area. Ultimately, a fireplace that fails to be airtightly sealed can put your family’s safety and your home at risk, so taking careful measures to seal all joints and crevices is essential.
7. No Budgeting for Installation Costs
It’s important to factor in the additional cost of installation when planning for an outdoor fireplace purchase. Do research ahead of time to get a better idea of the cost of installation and materials for the type of fireplace you want; comparing fireplace costs with local installation professionals in your area as well.
While you may be tempted to try and install it yourself, improperly installing outdoor fireplaces can be hazardous and can void any existing manufacturer warranties. Plan accordingly and factor in all additional costs like
- installation
- materials
- necessary add-ons
It helps to make sure the entire project stays within your budget.
Avoid Common Outdoor Fireplace Buying Mistakes
When it comes to outdoor fireplaces, avoid these outdoor fireplace buying mistakes. You can do so by researching, considering customization options for fireplaces, and working with professionals.
Make sure to know exactly what you want before spending any money. Shop around for reliable professionals and prices and don’t be afraid to reach out and get more information.
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