Building an outdoor fireplace is a great way to enhance your backyard and create a cozy gathering place for family and friends. With some planning, creativity, and elbow grease, you can build an attractive and functional outdoor fireplace without breaking the bank. Here are some tips for how to build an outdoor fireplace cheap.

Choose the Right Location

When deciding where to build your outdoor fireplace, consider the following:

Convenience – Pick a spot that is easily accessible from your house and backyard. This makes it convenient to transport food, drinks, and firewood.
Wind direction – Make sure the fireplace is protected from prevailing winds, which can spread embers. Position it out of major wind corridors.
Views – Locate it where you can see and enjoy the flames from seating areas. But avoid blocking any desirable views from your house.
Safety – Keep it at least 10 feet away from trees, buildings, fences, and other structures to prevent fire hazards. Check local building codes for required clearances.
Existing utilities – Avoid areas with buried electrical lines, gas pipes, or sprinkler systems. Call 811 before digging to get underground lines marked.
Privacy – Choose a quiet, private area if you don’t want smoke drifting to neighbors’ yards.

Select a Simple Design

Opt for an uncomplicated masonry design without elaborate stonework or finishes. Here are some budget-friendly styles to consider:

Brick surround: Build walls on three sides using standard bricks and mortar. Leave one side open.
Cobblestone surround: Use locally sourced stones, retaining wall blocks, etc. Mortar in place around a fire pit.
Metal insert: Install a prefabricated steel or copper fire pit insert. Surround it with gravel, bricks, stone, or pavers.
Portable fire pit: Choose a heavy-duty metal fire pit that can move to different spots as needed.
Simple fire ring: Arrange stacked cinder blocks, bricks, or stones into a fire ring.

Gather Affordable Materials

Use free or low-cost recycled and repurposed materials whenever possible:

Check Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace for free bricks, stones, concrete blocks, or pavers.
Ask around at construction sites for leftover materials or check their dumpsters. Get permission first.
Use retaining wall blocks or pavers on clearance from home improvement stores.
Check Habitat for Humanity ReStore for budget-friendly bricks, tiles, grates, etc.
Use found rocks from your yard or a friend’s property. Avoid river rocks which may explode from heat.
Cut costs on mortar by mixing your own rather than buying pre-mixed.
Make your own concrete blocks using recycled cans or cardboard forms.

Prepare the Site

Follow these steps to prep the installation site:

Mark the location with spray paint or stakes.
Remove any grass or plants from the footprint area.
Dig down 4-6 inches and level the soil to create a flat, stable base.
Tamp down the soil to compact it.
Add a 1-inch layer of sand and pack it down. This provides drainage.
Add a layer of crushed gravel if needed for very wet or uneven soil.

Build the Foundation

Construct a sturdy base according to your design:

For a brick surround:

Dig a 6 inch deep trench the size of the fireplace footprint.
Fill with gravel and compact with a hand tamper.
Lay concrete blocks or pour a shallow concrete slab for the base.

For a cobblestone surround:

Mark the layout with spray paint.
Dig down about 4 inches.
Fill with paver base gravel, compact, and level.
Install edge restraints to hold stones in place.

For a metal insert:

Install per manufacturer instructions. Level the ground if needed.
Use sand or pea gravel to create a base as needed.

Construct the Fireplace

Now build up the walls and install the components:

For brick: Build up walls using standard overlapping bricklaying techniques. Use mortar between layers. Install a grate.
For stone: Arrange and stack rocks, bricks, blocks with small gaps. Use mortar as needed. Add a metal fire ring.
For a kit: Assemble per instructions. Many slide into a stand. Surround with noncombustible materials.
Install fire-rated bricks or heat shields inside if needed.
Add a chimney opening or ventilation system according to local codes.

Add the Finishings

Apply protective finishes to complete the fireplace:

Mortar: Apply mortar between all cracks and openings with a trowel. Let cure fully before using.
Grout: Grout stone or brick walls. Wipe away excess grout before it dries.
Sealer: Apply a brick and masonry sealer. This protects from moisture damage.
Fireproof caulk: Seal around fire ring or insert with high-heat caulk.
Steel mesh screens: Install metal screens around vent holes to keep out sparks and embers.

Outfit with Essentials

Stock up on key supplies for safety and convenience:

Fire extinguisher – Have an ABC type extinguisher nearby in case of emergency.
Fire tools – Keep long pokers, tongs, and shovels close at hand to tend the fire.
Firewood – Season and properly store split hardwood logs. Softer woods like pine burn too quickly.
Kindling – Stock up on newspaper, wood chips, and other tinder. Avoid treated lumber.
Matches/lighter – Store weatherproof matches and lighters safely nearby.
Water hose – Have a hose ready in case the fire gets out of hand.
Metal ash bucket – Use a covered steel bucket to safely collect ashes after fires.
Firewood rack – Build or buy a nearby rack to store wood seasoning.

Design an Inviting Seating Area

Cluster weather-resistant outdoor furniture around your new fireplace:

Place logs, benches, or chairs around the perimeter facing inward for conversation and warmth.
Use a gravel, paver, or stone patio surface. Leave some gaps between pavers for drainage.
Position a picnic table nearby for eating, drinks, and activities.
Add weatherproof throw pillows, outdoor rugs, and patio umbrellas for comfort.
Use solar-powered torches, lanterns, or string lights to illuminate the space at night.

Follow Safety Precautions

Always practice fire safety when using your outdoor fireplace:

Keep children and pets at a safe distance or inside. Never leave a fire unattended.
Avoid flammable clothing or open-toed shoes when maintaining the fire.
Extinguish the fire completely before going to bed or leaving home.
Check local burn regulations and air quality restrictions before burning.
Keep the surrounding area clear of dry leaves, grass, pine needles, and other flammable debris.
Avoid burning on windy days when embers could spread.
Have a hose, sand bucket, or fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.
Ensure proper ventilation and smoke clearance.

Maintain Your Fireplace

With regular upkeep, your frugal fireplace can provide years of service:

Inspect the structure annually for cracks or damage. Repair mortar or bricks as needed.
Clean out ashes regularly into a metal ash bucket. Don’t leave ashes near wood or flammables.
Wash stone or brick occasionally with mild soap and water. Re-apply sealer every 2-3 years.
Keep the fire ring or insert clear of ash buildup and debris for safety.
Store firewood properly covered and off the ground on wood or metal supports.
Dispose of ashes safely once completely cooled. Sprinkle and hose them down first.
Consider installing a weather-resistant cover to protect the fireplace when not in use.

Get Building and Stay Cozy!

With smart planning and thriftiness, you can create a fabulous DIY fireplace on a budget. Turn your backyard into a warm, welcoming place for family and friends to gather around the dancing flames. Stay cozy all year long with your new favorite backyard feature. Just be sure to always keep fire safety top of mind. Get started on your affordable outdoor fireplace and start making happy memories together.

Frequently Asked Questions About Building an Outdoor Fireplace Cheap

Building an outdoor fireplace is a great way to enhance your backyard. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about how to build an outdoor fireplace cheaply.

What are the cheapest options for building an outdoor fireplace?

Some of the most budget-friendly options include using a metal fire pit insert, surrounding it with free or low-cost stones/bricks, building a simple fire ring with concrete blocks or stones, and making your own concrete blocks. Salvaging materials for free or cheap is key.

Can I build an outdoor fireplace myself?

Yes! With some basic DIY skills, the right plans, and safety precautions, you can absolutely build your own outdoor fireplace on a budget. Simple masonry fireplaces surrounds are very achievable.

How much does it cost to build a basic outdoor fireplace?

You can build a basic DIY brick or stone fireplace surround for $300 to $1500, depending on materials. Getting free or cheap salvaged brick and stone brings costs way down. A pre-fabricated insert kit starts around $150.

What tools do I need to build an outdoor fireplace?

Essential tools include a shovel, tamper, drill, mallet, trowel, level, wheelbarrow, buckets, and a masonry saw or chisel. Safety gear like gloves, goggles, and a mask are also a must.

Can I build a fireplace without mortar?

It is not recommended. Mortar between layers of brick or stone is essential for structural integrity, stability, weather-resistance, and safety. Mortar it yourself instead of buying pre-mixed to save money.

How close can an outdoor fireplace be to a house?

It’s recommended to keep an outdoor fireplace at least 10 feet away from your home or other structures. Be sure to follow all local building codes for required clearances.

What can I use instead of mortar for an outdoor fireplace?

Mortar alternatives like earth, lime, concrete, or fire clay can work but may compromise durability and fire safety. Work slowly and use reinforcement bars if trying alternative mortars. Proper mortar is still best.

Can you put an outdoor fireplace on grass or dirt?

No, it must have a solid foundation. Remove grass and dig down 4-6 inches. Install a gravel base, compact soil, and pour a concrete slab or use pavers or blocks to create a stable, level base.

What is the best material for an outdoor fireplace?

Brick and stone masonry are classic, durable options. Manufactured fire-rated concrete blocks are affordable. Durable metal inserts are also popular. Avoid flammable materials like untreated wood.

Conclusion

Building an outdoor fireplace cheaply is very doable with some DIY skills and creativity. Focus on sourcing free or inexpensive recycled materials. Prioritize durability and proper clearances over elaborate designs. And always adhere to local building codes and fire safety best practices. With a little effort, you can create a cozy backyard fireplace on a budget.

How to Build an Outdoor Fireplace Cheap