An outdoor fireplace is an attractive centerpiece to a patio, backyard or pool. With the warmth and exciting ambiance of a wood-cracking campfire, outdoor fireplaces are intended to be an efficient heat source. They create a relaxing gathering place, where family and friends can spend time on winter and chilly nights.

When compared to indoor fireplaces, outdoor fireplaces burn brighter and radiate more heat. As the outdoor fireplaces are highly exposed to wind and rain, it is crucial to build shelters for these fireplaces. Moreover, the chimneys must be constructed taller than the indoor fireplaces.

Outdoor fireplaces can be as simple as chiminea or highly complex masonry structures. Usually made of terracotta or cast iron, chiminea are small round stoves with tall chimneys. Fire pits form another option, which are perfect outdoor fireplaces for smaller areas.

Generally, wood or briquettes fuel outdoor fireplaces. Even though wood-burning outdoor fireplaces are attractive additions to the outdoor space, they cause air pollution and accumulation of creosote (a highly flammable residue formed by wood gases). This is why gas outdoor fireplaces are a more popular choice. They use propane or natural gas as fuel. Gas outdoor fireplaces prevent the excess emission of carbon monoxide and other hazardous pollutants.

Large, built-in wood-burning outdoor fireplaces are mainly of brick, block or concrete construction. Jeweled with beautiful tiles and decorative stands, they consist of a firebox, smoke chamber, flue, and a chimney. The portable outdoor fireplaces are made of durable cast iron, stainless steel, or aluminum. Cast aluminum alloy is most preferred as it is weather-resistant.

Along with the benefits of huge masonry fireplaces, the portable ones are provided with pull handles and rear wheels for easy mobility. Some outdoor fireplaces also feature excellent cooking accessories such as attachable grill grate and dual burner cooking system.