Diy Outdoor Fireplace With Cinder Blocks

Building a DIY Outdoor Fireplace with Cinder Blocks

Creating a cozy outdoor space is a popular trend, and an outdoor fireplace is a great way to extend the enjoyment of your backyard into cooler months. While a professionally built fireplace is a possibility, a DIY project can be a rewarding and cost-effective alternative, especially when using readily available materials like cinder blocks. This article will guide you through the process of building a functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor fireplace using cinder blocks.

Materials and Tools Needed

Before starting your project, gather all the necessary materials and tools. This will save you time and ensure a smoother building process. You’ll need:

Cinder blocks (quantity depends on desired size and shape of fireplace)
Mortar mix (for bonding cinder blocks)
Fire brick (for lining the firebox)
Refractory cement (for sealing the firebox)
Metal fire grate (for holding firewood)
Metal flashing (for protecting the top of the fireplace)
Sand (for leveling the foundation)
Level (for ensuring straight walls)
Masonry trowel (for applying mortar)
Bucket (for mixing mortar)
Rubber mallet (for tapping blocks into place)
Safety goggles (for eye protection)
Gloves (for protecting hands)

Steps for Building the Fireplace

The construction process involves several steps, from preparing the foundation to finishing touches. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Foundation Building

The foundation serves as the base for the fireplace and ensures its stability.

Choose a level and stable location for your fireplace.
Dig a shallow pit, roughly 12 inches deep, to accommodate the foundation.
Fill the pit with sand and compact it to create a level surface.
Place a layer of concrete pavers or a pre-made concrete foundation onto the compacted sand. This will act as a stable base for the cinder blocks.

2. Cinder Block Laying

Laying the cinder blocks requires careful attention to ensure a solid and aesthetically pleasing structure.

Mix the mortar according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Start by laying the first row of cinder blocks on the pavers or foundation, using a level to ensure they are straight.
Apply mortar to the sides of the blocks before placing the second row, creating a staggered pattern for strength.
Continue layering the blocks, ensuring each row is level and properly aligned.
Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the blocks into place, ensuring a solid bond.

3. Firebox Construction

The firebox is the heart of the fireplace, where the fire burns. It requires a heat-resistant lining and a suitable fire grate.

Outline the firebox within the cinder block structure, leaving a space for the fire grate.
Place the fire bricks inside the designated space, ensuring they are tightly packed and level.
Apply refractory cement to the mortar joints between the fire bricks, sealing the firebox and preventing heat leakage.
Once the cement has dried, install the metal fire grate within the firebox.

4. Chimney Construction

The chimney allows smoke and gases to escape safely. A basic chimney can be constructed using cinder blocks, but adding a metal chimney pipe is recommended for improved draft and safety.

Continue laying cinder blocks above the firebox, creating the chimney’s structure.
Leave a hole at the top of the chimney for ventilation.
Install a metal chimney pipe inside the cinder block chimney, extending it above the roofline for proper smoke expulsion.
Secure the chimney pipe with flashing to prevent water damage and maintain its stability.

Finishing Touches

Once the primary structure of the fireplace is complete, you can add finishing touches to enhance its appearance.

Apply a sealant to the exterior of the cinder blocks to protect them from weather elements and enhance their durability.
Consider painting the fireplace in a color that complements your backyard or landscape.
Build a surround around the fireplace using landscaping rocks, pavers, or other decorative elements.
Add a hearth in front of the fireplace using stone or pavers for a safe and comfortable seating area.
Install lighting around the fireplace to enhance the ambiance and create a welcoming atmosphere during the evening.

Building a DIY outdoor fireplace with cinder blocks can be a rewarding project. By following these steps and taking necessary precautions, you can create a functional and aesthetically pleasing addition to your outdoor space that will provide warmth, light, and enjoyment for years to come.