Often when thinking about or discussing fireplaces, people forget to consider an outdoor fireplace in the middle of a patio or in a backyard. The truth is, these can often be some of the most spectacular fireplaces you can build and can serve a number of purposes. While a fireplace in your home can offer a cozy place to cuddle and a nice source of heat, an outdoor fireplace can provide even more benefits. There is a vast array of purposes that an outdoor fireplace can be used for and there is an even greater number of styles and designs you can incorporate to give your home that special elegant feeling.

When you first begin to consider an outdoor fireplace, you should put same careful planning into your decisions. When a fireplace of this style is added to your yard, it can extend the space of your house a great deal and when positioned properly it can be used all year round. You can almost instantly turn your bland, bare backyard into a unique and comfortable setting as long as you plan and build your outdoor fireplace appropriately. So here are some important planning tips that you should consider before making a final decision on an outdoor fireplace of your very own.

First things first, you need to research and determine all the building codes that are designated and applied to your surrounding area. Some communities will have very strict rules and regulations regarding and others will be extremely relaxed and lenient. It is in your best interest to call your local municipal buildings and find out the exact regulations before you get your heart set on a certain design or placement for your outdoor fireplace. If you skip this step, you could be out a lot of money as you may be forced to remove the structure after you have just spent the money to put it all together.

In some cases you may have to apply for a permit before you can add any sort of structure to your yard. You should ensure that you have all the necessary application forms and information regarding these policies. You can never be too safe when it comes to areas of this matter, and you will be far better off in the long run if you take all the necessary precautions.

Once you have taken all the preliminary steps you need to choose which style will best suit your home and your tastes. Stone fireplaces are some of the most popular units available these days but there are a number of other options that you can consider. While stone units are usually self contained, you may want to look into a more open concept and take advantage of some of the benefits that brick fire pits can offer you in terms of a non traditional set up. While there are many choices when it comes to design, once you choose one , it is very difficult to make any changes or adaptations. So it is strongly suggested that you do a lot of research and be positive you are in love with a certain unit before you come to a final decision.

With a beautiful outdoor fireplace from Smalling Masonry, LLC, you’ll gain enhanced entertaining opportunities and a warm, inviting space in which to enjoy the great outdoors. Contact Smalling Masonry, LLC in Indianapolis, IN today to learn more about our outdoor fireplaces and fire pits, and get ready to begin experiencing your backyard in a whole new way.