Choosing the right outdoor fireplace for your project: A guide
There's something magical about gathering around a crackling fire on a summer night or finding warmth in the embrace of flames on a chilly winter evening. Incorporating an outdoor fireplace into your backyard or patio space adds a touch of elegance, serving as a captivating centerpiece for social gatherings, open-air dining, and those enchanting moments when a roaring fire elevates the ambiance. Even petite outdoor areas can be graced with flickering flames from a fire pit, infusing charm while offering the added advantage of grilling.
There are an array of outdoor fire options tailored to various space sizes and preferences: wood fires available in different dimensions; wood fires featuring BBQ grills and pizza ovens; gas flued and flue-less fires; and the outdoor wood fire pits.
Jetmaster Outdoor Wood Fire
Choosing the right fireplace size hinges on factors like proximity to homeowners and overhead considerations. For instance, if the fireplace is nestled within an enclosed terrace or deck, a larger fire might not be necessary since the walls and ceiling will retain some heat. Placement of chairs and tables, as well as seating relative to the fire, should also be taken into account—being too close could result in uncomfortable warmth.
Conversely, expansive open areas lend themselves to sizable standalone fireplaces, accommodating numerous individuals standing or sitting nearby. Flue positioning concerning nearby structures is crucial as well. If the outdoor fireplace is connected to the home, the flue must extend 3 meters from the roofline or adjacent structure, or 600mm above the ridgeline. A freestanding fire, on the other hand, may only require a few flue lengths, provided clearance to surrounding structures adheres to regulations, such as those governing neighboring houses.
Focus Suspended Gyrofocus
Preliminary Considerations for Specifying an Outdoor Fireplace or Fire Pit:
Before specifying a fireplace or fire pit, consider its intended use. Do you desire a multifunctional heating and cooking appliance, pure heating, or a decorative aesthetic?
Review local regulations regarding outdoor wood-burning fires, as different regions may have specific fuel-related rules. While wood-burning fires are often banned for air quality reasons, many places in New Zealand permit outdoor wood-burning fires suitable for cooking. If wood burning isn't feasible, gas presents an alternative.
Building consent requirements depend on the fire's placement. Joining the structure to the house necessitates consent, but a freestanding backyard fireplace might not. However, a resource consent could still be necessary. Consult the local council before embarking on a new fireplace project.
Morso Forno Fire
The fire's location significantly influences outdoor living spaces' social dynamics. Fires naturally draw people together, making their location a potential social hub. Several key questions come into play:
What's the outdoor space's size? A compact backyard might not accommodate a full-sized fireplace, highlighting the importance of proportionality. Architectural features or landscaping could limit fireplace options. Covered patios may require ventilation or adhere to clearances for ceilings or combustible walls. Refer to the manufacturer's installation guidelines for clarity.
Jetmaster Alfresco Outdoor Wood Fire
Is the deck fire-resistant? Can it withstand the fireplace's weight and structure? If not, a non-combustible hearth for deck protection is essential—consider its size, as it may affect available space. Review the manufacturer's installation instructions for clearances and requirements to determine the optimal fireplace size.
Is the area windy? Anticipate smoke and embers' movement to ensure guests, neighbors, and the environment remain undisturbed and safe from potential fire hazards.
Selecting and designing an outdoor fire is a gratifying endeavor, enhancing outdoor living and potentially boosting property value. If unsure about the most suitable appliance for your project's needs reach out to Design for Fires.
Hearthstone Fire Pit