How To Build A Fieldstone Outdoor Fireplace

How to Construct a Fieldstone Outdoor Fireplace

Enjoy outdoor living with the charm and warmth of a fieldstone fireplace. Building one requires careful planning, material selection, and construction techniques. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you achieve this outdoor oasis:

1. Design and Planning

Determine the size, shape, and location of your fireplace. Consider its relation to other outdoor features, wind direction, and safety concerns. Create a design plan with detailed measurements and a material list.

2. Material Preparation

Gather fieldstones of various sizes and shapes. Choose flat stones for the base, larger ones for the walls, and smaller ones for filling gaps. Ensure that the stones are clean, dry, and free of cracks or loose material.

3. Building the Base

Excavate a rectangular area slightly larger than the fireplace base. Level the ground and lay a 4-6 inch layer of gravel as a foundation. Compact the gravel firmly.

4. Laying the First Course

Start by placing large, flat stones along the perimeter of the base. Use a level to ensure that they are level and form a solid foundation for the walls. Backfill the interior with smaller fieldstones, packing them tightly.

5. Building the Walls

Continue layering fieldstones, alternating large and small ones to create stability. Use a mortar mix made of sand, cement, and water to fill gaps and secure the stones. Stagger the joints to avoid weak points.

6. Creating the Firebox

For the firebox, use fire-resistant bricks or stones. Line the interior with firebrick and create an opening at the front for access. Install a metal ash dump at the bottom to facilitate cleaning.

7. Adding the Chimney

Build a chimney of fieldstones or bricks to vent smoke and heat. Ensure that the chimney is tall enough to rise above the roofline and is capped with a weather-resistant material.

8. Finishing Touches

Point the joints between the stones with mortar. This not only strengthens the structure but also gives it a finished appearance. Add a mantel or hearth if desired to enhance the aesthetic.

9. Curing and Maintenance

Allow the mortar to cure properly before using the fireplace. Seal the exterior with a water-resistant sealant to protect it from the elements. Regularly inspect and clean the fireplace to maintain its functionality and appearance.

Build a fieldstone outdoor fireplace that blends seamlessly with your outdoor space and creates a cozy ambiance for countless evenings to come. Follow these steps, use quality materials, and enjoy the warmth and charm of a rustic outdoor fireplace.