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The Concrete Quest
 
A Weekly Newsletter about Decorative Concrete            May 28,  2009
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What to Watch: Video Series on Outdoor Fireplaces

Outdoor fireplace videos

Let Scott Cohen of The Green Scene show you how to use concrete fireplaces to create dramatic focal points and how to use fire pits to create intimate gathering places for conversation. Some unique examples include a pass-through fireplace that anchors adjoining outdoor rooms and a rectangular fire pit with a backdrop of cascading water. Watch the series now:

Fireplaces & Fire Pits: How to Choose the Right One  

Fire Pit Designs
 
Outdoor Fireplace Design

Who Can Build My  Concrete Fireplace?

Concrete contractors who specialize in exterior architectural concrete work, such as patios, pool decks, and outdoor kitchens, can often design and install concrete fireplaces and fire pits.

Find a local outdoor contractor in your area.

Get Notified About New Projects!

At The Concrete Network, we are constantly receiving photos and descriptions of fabulous concrete projects, submitted by decorative artisans from across the country. See what these creative people are doing by signing up to receive our monthly email profiling the newest projects added to our site. You're sure to be inspired!

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Heat Up the Outdoors with a Concrete Fireplace

Hi ,

The Green SceneNothing does a better job of anchoring an outdoor space and infusing it with warmth and ambience than a custom-built concrete fireplace. Concrete is a natural fireproof material that retains heat while giving you endless options in design, shape, color and texture. But before you transform your backyard with this upscale campfire, you need to do some planning. Landscape expert Scott Cohen of The Green Scene offers these great tips to help you get started. Get the marshmallows ready!

Jim Peterson,
The Concrete Network

HOT DESIGN TIPS FOR OUTDOOR
FIREPLACES & FIRE PITS

First and foremost, check local building codes! They may stipulate minimum chimney heights and restrict how close you can a build a fireplace to your home and adjacent properties.

Ministry ConcreteChoose a design for your fireplace that fits in scale with the size of your yard and home and accentuates your home's architecture. For design ideas, visit The Concrete Network's backyard fireplace photo gallery.

Do you want the fireplace to burn wood or use a gas flame? The construction and code requirements vary substantially between the two, and some communities do not permit wood-burning outdoor fireplaces.

Pay close attention to the proper proportion of the firebox opening and the flue size. To accommodate for wind movement, construction of an outdoor fireplace differs from indoor units. Learn more about outdoor fireplace design criteria.
 
Advanced Concrete Enhancement

An outdoor concrete fireplace should be a focal point, but you should also consider the views from your house, privacy, and the prevailing wind direction when deciding where to place this large, permanent structure. Get more advice on placement of an outdoor fireplace.

Since fireplaces are natural gathering spots for conversation, be sure to consider seating. The patio area adjacent to the Concrete fireplace and benchfireplace should be big enough to accommodate outdoor furniture, or you even incorporate built-in concrete benches. For ideas, see outdoor fireplace seating considerations.





If you don't have room for a full-scale concrete fireplace, consider installing a built-in fire pit. This smaller fire feature can also be wood burning or gas fed and it adapts more easily to existing landscapes. Learn more about concrete fire pits.
Circular fire pit
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