Working with a Unilock Authorized Contractor is working with the best of the best. Our UACs possess the knowledge and expertise to bring your dream project to life, and deliver stunning results that will exceed your expectations.
Outdoor Fireplace Contractors
Outdoor fireplace contractors are skilled professionals who can build the perfect cozy centerpiece for gathering with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee and a book.
What is an Outdoor Fireplace Contractor?
Outdoor fireplace contractors specialize in designing and building outdoor fireplaces to fit your space and complement your home’s style. They ensure the fireplace is durable and safe, allowing you to enjoy its warmth from a comfortable distance while enhancing your outdoor space.
View ProductsWhy You Should Hire an Authorized Contractor To Build Your Outdoor Fireplace
If you’re looking to install an outdoor fireplace in your backyard, consider working with a Unilock Authorized Contractor:
· Hiring a UAC gives you peace of mind with a minimum two-year Workmanship Guarantee backed by Unilock when you install Unilock pavers and walls on your project.
· UACs follow Unilock Installation Standards for all projects.
· UACs adhere to the Unilock Authorized Contractor Code of Ethics.
· UACs keep their skills up-to-date with continuing education courses.
Let us connect you with a local Unilock Authorized Contractor who can provide you with a free estimate for your project.
Tips for Hiring The Right Outdoor Fireplace Contractor
Here are some tips you can use when hiring an outdoor fireplace contractor for your next project:
1. Workmanship
Review Past Projects: Ask to see projects completed by your outdoor fireplace contractor over the past two years to see how they’ve held up over time, and to assess the quality of their work.
Warranty and Claims: Inquire about the length of their work guarantee and do your research to find out if they’ve had any warranty claims filed against their company in the past two years.
2. Sub-Contracting
Sub-Contractor Management: If your contractor is hiring sub-contractors for installing gas lines, ventilation, or lighting, it's important to understand how they will be selected and managed. Make sure you're clear on the vetting process to ensure quality and consistency across your project.
3. Experience
Installation Expertise: Does your contractor have extensive experience with installing outdoor fireplaces? View past projects they’ve completed to ensure they are the right fit for your project.
4. Preparation
Base Preparation Methods: What methods and materials do they use for base preparation? Ensure your contractor can customize their approach to meet your project’s specific needs.
5. Schedule
Project Timeline: The timing of your outdoor fireplace may change, due to factors like weather dependencies, and coordination with other trades (such as a gas technician or electrician). These complexities can extend the timeline, so it’s important to ask your contractor about their project booking schedule, the duration of each phase, and if an upfront deposit is needed to secure your project’s timing.
6. Documentation
Licensing and Insurance: Verify that the contractor's licensing, liability insurance, and workers' compensation coverage are up-to-date. If permits are needed, confirm with your contractor as to who will be responsible for obtaining them.
7. Compatibility
Communication and Trust: It’s important to establish effective communication and trust with your contractor. Confirm if they will be on-site throughout the project, or if someone else from their team will be your main point of contact.
References: Contact your contractor’s references to learn about their project management and work style.
8. Design
Design Services: Does your contractor offer design services? Ask about the costs involved, and if they provide hand-drawn or 3D-rendered concept designs. Ensure their design style aligns with your vision. Request a Catalog
Staying on Budget When Working with Your Contractor
Embarking on an outdoor fireplace project requires a clear budget and timeline to keep everything on track. Here are some strategies to optimize both when working with your contractor:
· Define Your Priorities: Identify what features you want to include in your design, and allocate your budget to focus on these key aspects.
· Request Detailed Estimates: Obtain quotes from multiple outdoor fireplace contractors to compare pricing and services. Look for transparent pricing and detailed cost breakdowns.
· Consider Material Options: Explore various materials and designs that fit your budget and style. Your contractor can help you find cost-effective options without sacrificing quality.
· Plan for Contingencies: Set aside a contingency fund to prepare for any unexpected expenses or changes.
· Communicate Clearly: Keep open lines of communication with your contractor about your budget and timeline expectations.
What Style of Outdoor Fireplace Suits Your Home?
When designing your outdoor fireplace, it's essential to choose a style that complements your overall landscape design or at least draws inspiration from the architecture of your home. Below are some style considerations to help you determine which fireplace design will best suit your space.
Rustic Outdoor Fireplace
A rustic outdoor fireplace evokes the charm of a cozy, country retreat, blending seamlessly with natural surroundings. This style often features materials like stone, wood, or brick, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels timeworn yet casual. Think of stacked stone fireplaces with a rough, uneven surface, or a firebox framed with weathered wood, perfect for homes with a cottage-like feel or a landscape rich with greenery and organic elements. Rustic fireplaces work wonderfully in settings that prioritize comfort and a connection to nature, making them ideal for homes with a natural, earthy aesthetic.
Modern Outdoor Fireplace
A modern outdoor fireplace is all about sleek lines, minimalism, and a sophisticated, contemporary look. These fireplaces often use materials like smooth concrete, steel, or glass to create a clean, uncluttered design that emphasizes simplicity and function. Whether it's a linear fire feature set into a wall or a freestanding fireplace with a geometric shape, modern fireplaces are perfect for homes with a minimalist or industrial design.
Traditional Outdoor Fireplace
Often inspired by historical architecture, traditional outdoor fireplaces typically incorporates elements like brick, cast stone, or ornate detailing to create a stately and refined look. Traditional fireplaces often feature symmetrical designs, with a large mantel and a grand hearth, making them a perfect fit for homes with a more formal or classic architectural style.
If you are looking for design advice, outdoor fireplace contractors are your best asset. They can recommend products, colors, and textures that will suit the look you are hoping to achieve. Find a Contractor
Key Considerations for Building Your Outdoor Fireplace
Proper Ventilation
When designing your outdoor fireplace, proper ventilation is crucial, as it allows you to enjoy the warmth of the fire without having to shield your eyes from smoke. One great benefit of outdoor fireplaces is that they provide better control over flames and smoke thanks to the inclusion of a chimney or ventilation system, which directs smoke up and away from nearby seating areas.
Fuel or Wood
Outdoor fireplaces offer flexibility in terms of their fuel source, giving you the choice between installing a gas or propane fireplace, or simply using wood as a fuel source. One thing to consider if you are using wood is the type of wood that is suitable for outdoor fireplaces. Consider using seasoned wood, like elm, ash, or oak, as these reduce the risk of sparks and embers. If you opt for a gas-powered fireplace, ensure you work with your outdoor fireplace contractor to make sure the fuel source is accessible and safely stored.
General Maintenance
Much like a paved driveway or patio surface, outdoor fireplaces do need tender love and care to keep their appearance looking fresh. To keep the inside of your outdoor fireplace in good shape, start by clearing out ash and debris after each use once the ashes have completely cooled; this prevents moisture buildup that can lead to rust and corrosion. Regularly check the chimney or flue for soot buildup, use a chimney brush to clean it, or hire a professional if needed. Clean soot and creosote deposits with a stiff brush and fireplace cleaner, wearing gloves and a dust mask for protection. Examine the fire grate and doors for general wear or rust, and consider replacing any heavily rusted components. Burn only seasoned hardwoods to minimize creosote and soot buildup, and avoid softwoods like pine that can leave behind sticky residues. Protect your fireplace against moisture by covering it when not in use, and consider an annual professional inspection to ensure it's safe and functions properly. Find a Contractor
Outdoor Fireplace Contractors FAQs
How do I know if a paver product is good to use on an outdoor fireplace?
You can filter products by Application using the sidebar on the Products page. Individual product pages provide detailed information on the best application for specific pavers, with products accompanied by an icon located below the product description. Icons labeled as “Fire Feature” can be used in the installation of outdoor fire pits and fireplaces. Some examples of products suitable for these applications include Brussels Dimensional System™, U-Cara® Multi-Face Wall System, and Lineo™ Dimensional Stone.
Can outdoor fireplace contractors install paver lighting into my fireplace?
Absolutely! We encourage homeowners to consider landscape lighting ideas in their initial design plans and to discuss them early in the process with their outdoor fireplace contractors. It's important to evaluate where in your outdoor project it makes the most sense to incorporate landscape lighting. Evaluate dark corners, walkways, and other areas where illumination is important for safety.
Can the U-Cara® Modular System be used to build an outdoor fireplace?
Yes, the U-Cara® Modular System is perfect for building outdoor fireplaces. This system's lightweight, aluminum-framed cabinets offer flexibility and ease of use. They can be assembled quickly, either on-site or off-site, and are easy to transport and install in various locations. This makes the U-Cara Modular System a time-saving and labor-saving option for constructing outdoor features like fireplaces, grill islands, bars, and columns. Plus, the aluminum frames are rust-free, ensuring durability and a clean look. Learn More
