Outdoor Fireplaces/Fire Pits

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Welcome to my Outdoor Fireplace/Fire Pit lens. I am in the process of coming up with a design for my backyard patio, and I want it to include an outdoor fireplace or fire pit. I've looked at many different models on the internet, and I've included some information and links that I have found. These pertain to three types of outdoor products: fireplace, chiminea, and fire pit.

Three Types of Outdoor Products 

  1. Fireplace - these can include large, built-in structures all the way down to small metal ones.
  2. Chiminea - these free-standing products come in a variety of materials, including cast iron, clay, and copper.
  3. Fire Pits - often portable, fire pits are usually made out of copper or steel.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Product 

There are a number of factors to consider when you shop for an outdoor fireplace/pit. Size is one of the most important. If you have a small patio, then a large fireplace would probably take up the entire space. Also, if you want something that you can take camping or to the beach then a fire pit would work well. Style is another thing to consider. There are many styles to choose from within each product type. Fireplaces can range from a small, metal structure to the large masonry built-in types. Which brings me to another factor: price. The large built-in fireplaces will cost the most, with fire pits being the most affordable.

Materials 

Here is some information on four types of outdoor fireplace/fire pit building material: copper, cast aluminum, cast iron, and clay.
  • Copper is good for long-term use. The product should be crafted from 100% pure copper; otherwise the flames can burn through. Copper tends to develop a patina over time.
  • Casted aluminum is weatherproof and rustproof, and will not rust or stain a deck or patio. While it is very durable, it is quite portable. Cast aluminum required little maintenance.
  • Cast iron is durable and heavy. If you want a product that will be kept in just one location, a cast iron fireplace or chiminea would be a good choice. However, cast iron will rust if not properly maintained. Cast iron can stain decks or patios.
  • Clay has a natural look, and is a choice when shopping for chimineas. Clay chimineas will not last as long as aluminum or cast iron.

Fire Pits on Amazon 

Coleman 5059A700 30-Inch Round Fireplace, Copper

Includes a heavy-duty copper fire bowl and a steel frame with a powder-coated wrought iron finish. Removable screen helps contain flying embers, while the grate allows for proper wood burning airflow. Includes an all weather canvas cover and a handy screen removal tool. Weight: 29 lbs. Diameter: 31.10". Height: 6.30".

Amazon Price: (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Uniflame Black Outdoor Fireplace with Copper Accents

Amazon Price: $199.00 (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Corona Outdoor Fireplace Model 30075

Amazon Price: (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Books for the Backyard Enthusiast 

Backyard Blaze: The Outdoor-Fireplace Lifestyle

Avg. Customer Rating: Amazon Rating

Amazon Price: $14.49 (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Fire Outdoors: Fireplaces, Fire Pits, Wood Fired Ovens & Cook Centers (Schiffer Book)

Avg. Customer Rating: Amazon Rating

Amazon Price: $13.57 (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Fire Places: A Practical Design Guide to Fireplaces and Stoves Indoors and Out

Avg. Customer Rating: Amazon Rating

Amazon Price: $18.21 (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Outdoor Kitchens: Designs for Outdoor Kitchens, Bars, and Dinning Areas (Quarry Book)

Avg. Customer Rating: Amazon Rating

Amazon Price: $19.79 (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Outdoor Living Spaces: Courtyards, Patios and Decks (v. 1)

Avg. Customer Rating: Amazon Rating

Amazon Price: $38.50 (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

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