Imagine a scenario where the flickering flames intertwine with the laughter of loved ones, where the warmth of a cozy fire envelops you in its embrace. This scene can become a reality with the addition of an outdoor fireplace in your backyard. 

Outdoor fireplaces elevate any backyard by providing warmth, ambiance, and a comfortable outdoor living atmosphere for gatherings with family and friends. When considering the installation of an outdoor fireplace, homeowners often have many important questions and considerations to ensure they make the right choice for their outdoor space.

Let's fire into some key aspects that can guide you through this exciting process.

The Charm of Outdoor Fireplaces

The motivation behind adding an outdoor fireplace to a backyard often stems from the desire to create an additional room for relaxation, entertainment, and social gatherings. Outdoor living spaces have become popular for spending time with family, enjoying the outdoors, and extending the usability of the backyard throughout the year. The warmth and coziness provided by an outdoor fireplace contribute to a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for homeowners and their guests, making outdoor fireplaces a sought-after feature in modern homes.

Exploring Outdoor Fireplaces

Homeowners often approach the idea of outdoor fireplaces with a sense of wonder and excitement. The process of selecting between traditional and modern designs, deciding on materials like logs or crushed glass, exploring different colours, lights, and materials, features and even contemplating the possibility of adding a TV above the fireplace ignites creativity and customization in outdoor living areas. 

The integration of a TV above the outdoor fireplace adds a modern touch to the outdoor living space. Proper clearance to combustibles and protective measures for the TV are crucial considerations. Innovative solutions like mantles, shadow boxes, and Valor’s HeatShift™ technology ensure the safe and effective placement of a TV above the fireplace, enhancing the overall entertainment experience.

Customers are frequently captivated by the variety of choices and enjoy exploring the wide range of styles and features offered by outdoor gas or electric fireplaces.

Key Factors to Consider Before Making a Purchase

Before deciding to invest in an outdoor fireplace, it is important to be well-informed. Spend 30-60 minutes to get expert advice in a relaxed fireplace consultation. Understanding the installation requirements, ventilation needs, and maintenance aspects is essential. 

1. Installation - Installing an outdoor fireplace differs from an indoor one due to ventilation requirements. The space must have at least 50% of the walls open to the environment for proper exhaust. Customers should bring photos and dimension details about the outdoor fireplace setting to facilitate informed decision-making.

2. Venting - Depending on the type of fireplace, venting may be required even for outdoor installations. Valor fireplaces, for example, need proper venting vertically through the roof or horizontally through a side wall for efficient operation.

3. Maintenance - Customers should familiarize themselves with the owner's manual provided by the manufacturer. Understanding clearances to combustion and the maintenance of combustible materials is essential for safe operation. Annual fireplace cleaning service is highly recommended. 

From ensuring proper clearances for combustion to selecting the right venting options, homeowners are advised to familiarize themselves with the technical details to make an informed choice. Information can be found in the owner's manual, and from our experts at our multiple showroom locations.

Gas vs. Electric: Understanding the Benefits

When homeowners compare gas and electric outdoor fireplaces, they need to consider the advantages of each option. Both electric and gas fireplaces offer the convenience of a clean, safer, and hassle-free alternative to traditional wood-burning fireplaces. They eliminate the need for chopping wood and cleaning up ash, making them both a low-maintenance option for homeowners.

Gas fireplaces provide efficient heating, realistic flames, and ambiance, but they need proper venting. In contrast, electric fireplaces are easy to install and cost-effective, yet they will not offer as much heat and can lose warmth in outdoor settings. The decision between the two types depends on heating requirements, available space, and budget limitations. Homeowners should evaluate these factors according to their heating needs and design preferences.

Leading Brands for Outdoor Fireplaces

When it comes to selecting brands for outdoor fireplaces, Napoleon, Valor, Amantii, and Dimplex are highly recommended for their quality and wide range of options. Specifically, The Napoleon Riverside Outdoor Fireplace is a stunning addition to any outdoor destination, with a spacious viewing area and vibrant flames that bring both warmth and elegance year-round. On the other hand, the Valor P2 gas fireplace is a compact and efficient choice that provides true radiant heat and advanced gas fireplace technology. You can further elevate your experience with the optional Valor HeatShift™ system, which helps maintain a cool environment around walls, artwork, and TVs. 

Electric Fireplaces fit everywhere. Amantii and Dimplex electric fireplaces add a touch of luxury to any home. Explore electric fireplaces that easily plug-and-play. With industry-leading flame effect technology, enjoy the appearance of wood-burning or gas fireplaces without the hassle of upkeep. Napoleon, Valor, Amantii, and Dimplex are known to excel in providing top-notch outdoor fireplace solutions that combine functionality and style that can truly enhance your outdoor living experience.

The Golden Tip: Just Dive In

The timeless advice for fireplace customers is simple yet profound - "Just do it, you won't regret it." Outdoor fireplaces hold the power to transform a backyard into a cozy retreat, offering warmth, charm, and endless possibilities for creating unforgettable memories. Whether choosing gas or electric, traditional or contemporary, the journey of selecting the perfect outdoor fireplace is an adventure worthwhile. 

Canada’s Backyard Experts Since 1979

Since 1979, we have provided backyard expertise to help guide Canadians through the fantastic variety and customization options across hundreds of barbecues, smokers, pizza ovens, fireplaces, patio furniture, outdoor fire tables, outdoor heating & umbrellas, BBQ accessories, and more. Our highly trained experts will help make your decisions clear and easy. Our Price Promise ensures you get the best price.