How To Build An Outdoor Stone Fireplace Step By Step

by Paul Ciocoiu · July 15, 2015

We have built ponds, outdoor fountains, ovens, swing seats, summer kitchens, pergolas and gazebos in the gardens or on terraces. An outdoor stone fireplace was missing to supplement the list of accessories that can complete the tranquility space behind your houses. Many times, a fireplace overlaps an outdoor oven in utility, but for those willing to have it to give the garden a more romantic feeling, here is what you need to know about how to build an outdoor stone fireplace. We have chosen a classic wood burning fireplace, easier to build, and followed the steps shown on Livingstonemasons.com.

The first step, after you have decided on the place to build the fireplace, is to excavate and poor the concrete foundation. Depending on the size of the fireplace, a foundation can be between 15 to 40 cm deep. Since the fireplace will be really heave, the footings have to be very solid so it is recommended to use rebars to increase the strength of the foundation. After the concrete dries in an at least 24 hour period, the next step is building the base of the fireplace. Use firebrick and refractory cement for this part of the project which will actually line the firebox. Make sure keep all surfaces of your firebox level, plumb and square for it to look correct.

How to build an outdoor stone fireplace in the garden

How to build an outdoor stone fireplace – concrete foundation

How to build an outdoor stone fireplace – the firebox

Once you have completed the firebox and allowed the mortar to set, it is time to set your block around it and build the “throat” (where the firebox tapers in to the size of your flue liners). Experts recommend you to use a steel angle iron to carry the weight of the masonry over the firebox. Make sure the base of the block is also built with stronger bricks, as seen in the images below. Leave a hole in the middle of the block where the flue block will be later installed.

How to build an outdoor stone fireplace – the block around the firebox

The next step is building the flue. Set your first liner in a bed of mortar, then slide a flue block over it. Repeat until you reach the desired height while making sure everything is kept plumb.

How to build an outdoor stone fireplace – keep the flue block plumb

When the flue block is firmly in place, move on to the last stage of the project which is the stonework. The stone veneer will make your fireplace look rustic and, while it is a scrupulous work, the final satisfaction will be boundless.