Types of Outdoor Fireplaces and How to Choose the Right One for Your Space

An outdoor fireplace can turn a patio or backyard into a gathering place you can enjoy well beyond the summer months. For St. Louis homeowners, that extra warmth is especially useful during cool fall evenings and the unpredictable temperatures of early spring.

But not every fireplace looks, operates, or functions the same way. From traditional wood-burning fireplaces to convenient gas models and custom masonry designs, understanding the different types of outdoor fireplaces can help you choose a feature that complements your home and the way you use your outdoor living space.

Poynter Landscape designs outdoor fireplaces as architectural focal points that can help anchor patios and create an indoor-outdoor living room feel.

Key Takeaways

• Outdoor fireplaces are available in wood-burning, natural gas, propane, electric, and other fuel options.
• Materials such as natural stone, brick, and concrete allow homeowners to coordinate fireplaces with existing hardscaping.
• Your available space, preferred maintenance level, local regulations, and outdoor lifestyle should guide your fireplace selection.

How to Choose the Right Outdoor Fireplace

While knowing the different types of outdoor fireplaces available is important, you must also consider:

• How you want to use it: If traditional ambiance matters most, wood may be ideal. If quick, convenient fires are the priority, gas may make more sense.
• Where it would fit into your space: Evaluate the available space, material choice, maintenance requirements, fuel access, budget, and surrounding hardscape.
• Any local requirements: Municipal codes and HOA regulations may restrict outdoor fireplace installations in some locations.

Whichever type of fireplace you choose, planning ahead can help prevent common landscape design issues from happening. A professionally designed project can account for permits, utilities, construction requirements, and fireplace placement before you begin your project.

1. Wood-Burning Outdoor Fireplaces

For homeowners who want the experience of a traditional fire, a wood-burning outdoor fireplace is a classic choice. These fireplaces provide natural flames, warmth, the crackle of burning wood, and the familiar wood-burning aroma.

Traditional models generally include a firebox along with a chimney or flue that directs smoke upward and away from the seating area. An open-hearth outdoor fireplace can create a traditional appearance.

Wood-burning models require more cleaning and maintenance than some alternatives. Ash removal, chimney care, wood storage, and safe fuel handling all become part of long-term maintenance.

2. Natural Gas Outdoor Fireplaces

Gas fireplaces are popular for homeowners looking for convenience. Rather than gathering firewood and manually starting a fire, a natural gas fireplace connects to a gas line to provide reliable fuel.

Depending on the outdoor fireplace design, homeowners may also have options for gas log sets, electronic ignition control models, or other convenience features. Homeowners should consider gas line placement and installation requirements before selecting this type of outdoor fireplace.

3. Propane Outdoor Fireplaces

A liquid propane-powered fireplace provides many of the conveniences of natural gas without requiring a permanent natural gas connection.

Propane-burning outdoor fireplaces may work well where natural gas access is limited or where the homeowner wants greater flexibility in fireplace placement. Fuel storage, access, and the visual integration of the propane source should all be considered during planning.

4. Electric Outdoor Fireplaces

An electric fireplace offers another alternative for homeowners who don't necessarily need a traditional flame.

Electric fireplaces can be especially appealing for homeowners looking for easy operation and minimal cleaning. However, they require an appropriate outdoor-rated electrical setup, and homeowners should consider how exposure to Missouri's rain, humidity, heat, and winter weather may affect their installation.

5. Masonry and Stone Outdoor Fireplaces

The construction style of a fireplace can be just as important as its fuel. Masonry fireplaces can become permanent architectural features within a landscape. Natural stone, brick, and concrete are popular exterior materials, while firebrick and concrete blocks may be used within the structure.

A stone outdoor fireplace can also be customized to coordinate with a home's architecture or surrounding patio. Limestone, granite, slate, cobblestones, and other masonry materials can create styles ranging from rustic to refined.

6. Freestanding vs. Built-In Outdoor Fireplaces

Fireplace placement also creates two distinct categories: freestanding and built-in.

A freestanding fireplace stands independently rather than being directly attached to a wall. That allows more flexibility when creating a separate outdoor gathering area or placing a fireplace at the edge of a patio.

A built-in fireplace becomes part of a wall or another outdoor structure. This option can work particularly well when designing a larger outdoor living space that incorporates a patio, kitchen, pavilion, or seating area.

7. Single-Sided and See-Through Fireplaces

Most traditional fireplaces are single-sided, meaning the fire is viewed from one primary seating area.

Double-sided or see-through fireplaces allow the fire to be enjoyed from two spaces. For example, a fireplace could visually connect a covered patio with an open-air courtyard. These configurations can be especially useful in larger outdoor living designs where the fireplace serves as both a focal point and a divider.

Outdoor Fireplace Features and Accessories

Once you've selected the basic fireplace type, customization can make the feature more useful for your lifestyle. Customization options include:

• Seat walls
• Wood storage
• Hearths
• Mantels

Homeowners can also implement details like outdoor lighting and bordering plants and flowers, or additional features like outdoor kitchens, pergolas, and nearby seating to create a complete backyard oasis.

Create a Custom Outdoor Fireplace with Poynter Landscape

The best types of outdoor fireplaces are designed around how you actually want to use your backyard.

Poynter Landscape works with St. Louis-area homeowners to design custom outdoor fireplaces that complement patios, landscaping, and larger outdoor living spaces. From selecting a fuel type and location to choosing materials and accessories, thoughtful planning can turn a fireplace into a true architectural centerpiece.

Ready to make fireside evenings part of your backyard? Contact us today to start designing your outdoor fireplace.

FAQs

What type of outdoor fireplace is best?

The best option depends on your priorities. Wood-burning fireplaces offer traditional ambiance, while natural gas and propane provide greater convenience. Electric fireplaces offer another option for homeowners who want warmth and a focal point without a traditional wood or gas fire.

Do you need a permit for an outdoor fireplace in Missouri?

Requirements vary by municipality and project. Local ordinances, HOA requirements, fuel connections, fireplace placement, and construction details can affect whether permits or approvals are necessary. Poynter recommends accounting for applicable codes and restrictions when planning an outdoor fireplace.

What is the best material for an outdoor fireplace?

Brick, concrete, and natural stone are common exterior materials, while firebrick and concrete blocks can be used for interior construction. The best choice depends on your desired appearance, budget, existing hardscape, and fireplace design.