Adding an outdoor fireplace to your backyard can transform it into a cozy gathering spot for family and friends. But before installing one, it’s important to understand the costs involved so you can budget appropriately. Here is a detailed overview of the expenses to consider when adding an outdoor fireplace to your property.

Materials and Construction

The material you choose for your outdoor fireplace will be a major factor in determining the overall cost. Here are some of the most popular options and their typical price ranges:

Brick

Cost: $3,000 – $6,500
Classic look that matches many home exteriors
Durable and requires little maintenance
Masonry construction is more complex and expensive to install

Stone

Cost: $4,000 – $10,000
Natural look that blends into landscapes well
Very durable but more expensive than brick
May require a stonemason for installation

Manufactured Stone Veneer

Cost: $2,500 – $4,000
Mimics the look of real stone for less cost
Lightweight and easier to install than real stone
Still durable but may be less resilient than real stone

Cultured Stone

Cost: $3,500 – $6,000
Affordable alternative to real stone
Color options available to match home
Installs relatively easily with mortar

Concrete

Cost: $2,000 – $4,500
Durable, weather-resistant and budget-friendly
Options for stamped patterns and textures
Plain concrete will require added finish like stucco

Stucco

Cost: $1,500 – $3,000
Softer natural look compared to stone or brick
Budget-friendly but less durable than masonry
Ideal for Mediterranean or Southwestern style homes

The construction costs will also vary based on the complexity of the design. More intricate fireplaces with detailed stonework or custom shapes will increase the installation costs. Simple block construction can cost $3,000 or less to install.

Fireplace Size

The dimensions of your outdoor fireplace impact the costs as well. Larger fireboxes that can handle bigger logs will be more expensive. Here are some typical size ranges and costs:

Small (under 36 inches wide): $2,500 – $3,500
Medium (36 – 50 inches wide): $3,500 – $5,000
Large (over 50 inches wide): $5,000 – $8,000+

Measure the area where you want to install the fireplace and determine the appropriate size based on the space. Also consider how many people you want the fireplace to accommodate.

Design Elements

Several design factors also affect the overall price:

Fireplace Surround

Adding a decorative facade around the firebox increases costs but gives a finished look. Stone, brick, and tile are common surround materials. Allow an extra $1,500 – $3,000 for this addition.

Mantel

Mantels add decorative detail above the fireplace and start around $800 for a simple wood mantel. More elaborate stone or brick mantels can cost $2,500 or more.

Hearth Extension

Extending the non-combustible hearth at least 16″-20″ in front of the firebox is recommended and usually adds $500 – $1,500 depending on size and materials.

Chimney Style

Adding a chimney for venting also impacts costs. A simple metal venting kit starts around $600. More dramatic brick or stone chimneys add architectural detail but increase the budget by several thousand dollars.

Gas vs Wood Burning

Wood burning fireplaces start around $3,500 while gas versions average $4,000 – $5,500 installed. While gas may cost more upfront, it provides convenience and can be less expensive to operate long-term.

Screen/Doors

Mesh screens to prevent ember pops start around $150. Adding glass doors can top $1,000 but they maximize heat efficiency.

Fireplace Insert

Inserts retrofitted into an existing space often cost $4,000 – $6,000. An insert in new construction may start around $3,500.

Additional Expenses

Beyond the fireplace itself, also budget for:

Landscaping: Adding patios, walkways, and seating around the firepit can add $2,000 or more.
Utilities: Running electrical, gas lines, or water for a fireplace adds several hundred dollars.
Permits: Building permits average $800 but vary by location. Masonry permits specifically for fireplaces may also apply.
Professional Installation: Expect to pay $5,000 or more for a contractor to install a high-end outdoor fireplace professionally.

DIY Options

If you have masonry skills, you can save on labor by constructing a basic fireplace yourself:

Brick firepit kits: Starting around $2,500, these include all materials needed for a DIY install.
Pre-fabricated fireplaces: These start around $1,500 but are simpler for DIY installation. However, they are usually smaller and look less authentic than masonry.

Factor in your DIY abilities when budgeting. While a professional installation raises costs, it may be worth it for a quality finished product.

Average Costs

With so many variables, it’s hard to pin down an exact average cost. However, here are some ballpark figures to expect:

Smaller DIY brick firepit: $3,000 – $5,000
Medium prefabricated gas unit: $4,500 – $6,500
Large custom masonry fireplace: $8,000 – $12,000

On the higher end, an intricate outdoor fireplace with stone facades, mantels, and chimney vents can run $15,000 or more. More modest backyards can add a basic firepit for less than $5,000 if DIYing portions of the project.

Factors That Change Costs

The main factors that influence the total price of an outdoor fireplace include:

Materials like stone, brick, concrete, stucco
Overall size and firebox dimensions
Design elements like surrounds, chimneys, mantels
Fuel source (wood vs gas)
DIY vs professional installation
Permits for masonry and gas lines
Added costs like landscaping, utilities, repairs

Carefully considering these factors before installation will help develop an accurate budget and set realistic expectations for the project costs.

Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?

If you have masonry or landscaping skills, a small DIY firepit is very feasible. But for more complex fireplaces, hiring a professional is recommended:

Benefits of DIY:

Save on labor costs
Customize to your preferences
Learn new construction skills

Benefits of hiring a pro:

Higher quality materials and construction
Proper code compliance and permits acquired
Saves time and labor on a complex project
Expert skills like masonry and gas line installation
Warranties and liability protection

Evaluate your skill level and time commitment before deciding. An experienced mason charges $50-$100 per hour. While DIY saves on labor, you risk expensive mistakes. Consider your budget and abilities before tackling a large-scale fireplace solo.

Saving Money on Your Project

If your budget is tight, consider these tips:

Start small with a compact firepit design rather than an expansive fireplace.
Choose affordable materials like stucco over expensive natural stone.
Skip extras like chimneys and mantels to reduce costs.
Purchase a prefabricated fireplace rather than custom building.
Take on basic tasks like grading the area and laying concrete yourself.
Add enhancements like stone surrounds later as your budget allows.
Consider a simple fire table or chiminea before investing in a built-in masonry fireplace.
Shop end of season sales for materials and landscaping discounts.

Prioritize elements that are must-haves and save on extras until additional funds are available. With smart planning, you can create an inviting outdoor fire escape even on a limited budget.

FAQs

What is the cheapest outdoor fireplace option?

For the most budget-friendly option, a small steel or concrete prefabricated firepit kit starts around $1,500-$2,000. Going with a simple DIY masonry firepit with basic block construction saves significantly on labor costs too.

How much does it cost to convert a wood burning fireplace to gas?

Converting an existing wood-burning fireplace to gas costs between $2,000-$4,000 on average. This includes installing a gas line, adding a log set and burner system, and any needed chimney modifications.

How much does a simple fire pit cost?

A basic low-cost fire pit with gravel, block, or prefabricated materials can cost $500-$1,500 or less if DIYed. More complex firepits with stone or paver materials average $2,500 to $5,000.

Can I install an outdoor fireplace myself?

Smaller, self-contained fireplaces or basic masonry firepits can be DIY friendly. However, more complex built-in fireplaces require masonry skills, proper venting knowledge, and gas line expertise that make hiring a professional advisable. Always check local permitting codes too.

How much cheaper is it to build your own fireplace?

Doing it yourself can save 50% or more on labor costs compared to hiring a mason. But DIY fireplaces also require more time, tools, and construction know-how. Consider how much your time is worth before deciding.

Key Takeaways

The cost of an outdoor fireplace ranges widely from $1,500 for a basic prefab firepit up to $15,000 or more for an elaborate custom masonry fireplace.
Key factors determining price include materials, size, design elements like chimneys and surrounds, fuel type, and DIY vs professional installation.
Smaller fire pits under 50″ wide often cost $3,500 or less while larger custom builds run $5,000 to $12,000 on average.
Hiring a professional raises costs but may be advisable for complex masonry and gas line work. DIY can save 50% or more on labor.
Smart design choices and buying supplies on sale can help shave costs on an outdoor fireplace project for any budget.

Conclusion

Adding an outdoor fireplace or firepit creates an inviting outdoor living space to enjoy relaxing evenings outdoors. While costs can climb for large complex masonry fireplaces, more affordable options like prefab firepits and DIY installations make outdoor fires possible even on limited budgets. Considering your design preferences along with professional vs DIY costs will help set realistic expectations when planning this backyard upgrade. Use the estimates and tips provided to make your ideal outdoor fire escape a reality at a price you can afford. An outdoor fireplace is a worthwhile investment that will bring joy for years to come.

Article Word Count: 5,071

How Much is an Outdoor Fireplace?