What Are the Best Materials for DIY Outdoor Fireplace?

[EdwinBoyd]

Hi everyone,

I’m planning to build a DIY outdoor fireplace in my backyard, and I’m looking for some advice on the best materials to use. I want it to be durable and able to withstand heat, but I’m not sure whether to go with brick, stone, or some other material. I also want something that will look great and last for years.

Has anyone here built an outdoor fireplace? What materials would you recommend, and are there any tips or tricks to make the construction process easier?

Thanks in advance for your advice!

 

[EdwinBoyd]

Hi everyone,

I’m planning to build a DIY outdoor fireplace in my backyard, and I’m looking for some advice on the best materials to use.

I want it to be durable and able to withstand heat, but I’m not sure whether to go with brick, stone, or some other material. I also want something that will look great and last for years.

Has anyone here built an outdoor fireplace? What materials would you recommend, and are there any tips or tricks to make the construction process easier?

Thanks in advance for your advice!

I was also wondering if poured concrete could be a good option for the base or structure—has anyone tried that?

 

[EatenByLimestone]

I haven’t built an outdoor fireplace so I can only offer limited advice. Porous rocks may contain pockets of water. The water may turn to steam if the fire is close enough. That may cause the rock to fracture or even explode. Be careful choosing your materials.

 

[stoveliker]

For anything heavy, as this likely will be, a concrete base is good. I presume it won't get hot .

Regular fireplaces are built from brick. You could add a layer of firebrick inside to face the fire. But you have to make sure they won't get wet.

 

[bholler]

Concrete for the foundation dug down how ever deep is required in your area for footers then concrete block below grade. Pour a hearth slab. Then firebrick for the firebox. Stainless or clay liners in the chimney. The outer face can be brick stone block whatever masonry you want

 

[EdwinBoyd]

I haven’t built an outdoor fireplace so I can only offer limited advice. Porous rocks may contain pockets of water. The water may turn to steam if the fire is close enough. That may cause the rock to fracture or even explode. Be careful choosing your materials.
https://www.concretesrichmondva.com/

I’ll definitely keep in mind the risks with porous rocks and make sure to choose materials that can withstand high heat. As for the base, poured concrete could be a great option as it’s durable and fire-resistant. Just make sure to use a high-strength concrete mix to avoid cracks, especially with the heat from the fire.

I’ve heard that using fire bricks or refractory concrete for the actual fireplace structure is a good idea, as they are specifically designed to withstand high temperatures. For the outside finish, stone or heat-resistant brick could offer a nice aesthetic.

 

[Murray01]

In the early 90’s I built a non combustible wall for a wood stove using brick slices. The owner of the the fireplace store was a retired mason. He sold me an additive to mix in with the mortar to prevent cracking from the heat. I don’t remember what it was called but I never had any issues with the mortar cracking. I’d guess there are products available that would fit the bill.

 

[bholler]

I’ll definitely keep in mind the risks with porous rocks and make sure to choose materials that can withstand high heat. As for the base, poured concrete could be a great option as it’s durable and fire-resistant. Just make sure to use a high-strength concrete mix to avoid cracks, especially with the heat from the fire.

I’ve heard that using fire bricks or refractory concrete for the actual fireplace structure is a good idea, as they are specifically designed to withstand high temperatures. For the outside finish, stone or heat-resistant brick could offer a nice aesthetic.

I just gave you a run down of what needs used where