For many homeowners, an outdoor fireplace is a great addition to any backyard. It is a welcoming focal point for your home, family and guests. Having an outdoor fireplace is one of the latest popular trends for home renovations that combine comfort and warmth outside throughout the various seasons.
With an outdoor fireplace, you can enjoy the lit skies of summer or the beauty of winter in your backyard nestled by the heat of your outdoor fireplace. This is a year-round destination that can be enjoyed by family and friends as a great gathering spot. An outdoor fireplace is considered by many as a “must have” addition to any outside living combination.
Visual Appeal
An outdoor fireplace can enhance the look of the entire backyard, make your patio more private and cozy while adding interest to your home and backyard scenery. An outdoor fireplace combines form and function as another area of your home. It encourages you to spend more time outdoors and turn the area into a perfect location for nighttime entertainment.
Home Value
An outdoor fireplace is an investment worth considering because it can add value to your home. It can be a boon at sale time because they are an attractive feature that adds character to your home and property. An outside fireplace can make your home stand apart from the others and a worthwhile investment. According to real estate experts, outdoor gas fireplaces can add anywhere from $3,500 on average to $10,000 in home value depending on the size and scope of the renovation.
Location
Where you will put your outdoor fireplace is your first consideration. You might want to consider locating it adjacent to your outside living area, such as a deck or patio. Another alternative is to set it further back in the yard as a separate seating area. Its location will also be dictated by the size of your outdoor space.
Types of Fuel
The type of fuel you will use is another factor to consider. Will your fireplace be wood burning, propane or natural gas? If you decide on wood burning or propane, you can more or less locate it anywhere on the property. If the fireplace is going to be fueled by natural gas your choice is more limiting because its locations will be determined by its proximity to the gas line.
In addition to its proximity to the house and gas line, gas fireplaces tend to cost more than wood-burning ones. Plus, the farther from the house that the gas line must run, the more costly the installation will be for the fireplace. However, even with this added cost, gas fireplaces are so much easier to operate since a flick of a switch does the trick instead of worrying about the constant supply of wood. On the other hand, some folks just love the smell of burning logs and crackling sounds being produced by wood.
Design
An outdoor fireplace is a great design addition to your landscape. With the help of a professional landscape company, you can turn empty and unused space into a beautiful outdoor focal point. A popular choice by many homeowners is the freestanding style that can be located anywhere on the property. However, the sky is the limit regarding styles from modern to rustic, and a professional designer can help you choose the style that fits the look of your home.
Enjoy
With an outdoor fireplace, you have many advantages, beauty, home value, outdoor destination and extra living space. It’s a location that adds year-round pleasures from your deck or patio. You can enjoy the seasons and all they have to offer, especially the fall and winter months with crisp, cool nights when you’re cuddled up in warm blankets sharing good times with family and friends.
Thinking of adding a fireplace to your property? Call us at Envision Landscapes and we will help you determine the best layout, design and fireplace options for your landscape.