This guide to building a fireplace contains only basics so you can get an idea of the work and skills involved. If you want to build a fireplace, use this as your first basic guide before delving deeper into studying online resources, reading books or consulting experience fireplace builders. The easiest first fireplace is an outdoor fireplace because no wall modifications are needed. For that reason, this guide will address building a free-standing outdoor fireplace.
Decide the material to use; choose fireplace brick for your first effort. You’ll need mortar, plastic sheeting, heat resistant tiles for floor protection, a chalk line, trowels (masonry / finishing), hammer, whisk broom, and a tuck pointer available. Here are the basic steps to building a fireplace outdoors:
1. Draw your design with measurements.
2. Place plastic sheeting around work area for surface protection and scratch prevention.
3. Mix a little mortar; attach heat resistant tiles to patio pr area where the fireplace will stand.
4. Extend the tiles to form a heart if desired.
5. Cover the laid tiles with plastic sheeting to keep moisture out, cure overnight.
6. After mortal is set, check that tiles are secure.
7. Begin laying first course of bricks. Use builder’s chalk line to mark outside line for brick placement.
8. Ensure mortar is compressed well between materials.
9. After laying second course, use tuck pointer to remove excess mortar between courses for a finished look.
10. Ensure corners are square. Continue adding courses of bricks or stones. Ensure construction is level and straight vertically and horizontally.
11. Remove excess mortar with finishing trowel.
12. Cover; cure overnight.
13. The next day, chip away any mortar lumps; whisk away debris.
14. If a chimney is planned, construct it after the base is completed. Learn how to install a flue but the other basic construction is same as fireplace base construction.
15. Construct the hearth from the same materials as the fireplace if you chose not to use tiles.
16. Place a purchased metal fire box in the fire pit; add dog-irons to hold logs. Add fireplace screen or glass doors if desired.
17. A mantle added if desired.
