Building an outdoor masonry fireplace is a project that requires a lot of effort, but not too much time. In fact, a person who is organized and able can get a fireplace like this done in as little as one day.
Some of the things he should do to build the fireplace include:
• Measure the area - The area that the fireplace will take up should be measured and then a template should be made on a wooden board using painter's tape.
• Consider the stone -First decide to use stones or bricks. Once the material to be used has been decided, the stones or bricks should be tightly and neatly placed together. The stone can be cut, but it sometimes should be done by a professional since cutting stone is not an easy thing to do.
• Mix the mortar - It is easiest to use mortar mix for creating mortar. To create mortar, simply stir the mortar mix and some water into a pan. The mortar should be thick and not runny. It should stir like pancake batter.
• Apply - the mortar must be applied to the back of each stone or brick that will be placed on the fireplace. The stones or bricks should then be installed according to the pattern that was developed when the template was made.
• Cut wood - A frame then must be created to make sure that the bricks or stones have enough support to stand on their own. Three 2x4s will be used to make the frame. It is best to use a nail gun to ensure these pieces of wood stay in place.
• Place on the mantel - The stones or bricks then should be laid onto the mantel of the outdoor masonry fireplace. Wait for the mortar to dry and then check to see where more mortar might be needed. Look particularly well in the cracks in between stones or bricks.
• Build a hearth - A wooden hearth can be constructed by creating a plywood frame that will be able to fit inside of the firebox. A couple of 2x4s can be attached to the bottom of the hearth by using either a nail gun, wood glue or both. The hearth should be placed inside of the firebox.
There are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the construction process goes smoothly. Using a mason's hammer to knock off long or sharp edges on the stones that could be used for the fireplace is a great idea. The smoother the edges of a stone are, the better it will fit.
Likewise, if edges are cut down, there is less of a chance that children will want to play on it. An outdoor masonry fireplace that has jagged edges makes kids want to climb it, which could result in injury. If a person can do anything to smooth the stones, this might minimize the risk of injury.
By:Anne Clarke
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