It used to be that you had to build these outdoor fireplaces the old fashioned and expensive way with bricks and concrete block. Then came the advent of pre-fab fireplace units that were built from stainless steel so they could be used outdoors without rusting. This reduced the cost, but unfortunately, these units are limited in size and it’s tough to get a roaring fire in them, the kind of fire that keeps you warm even if you’re several steps away from the firebox.

    Now we have a new option. There are fireplaces you can build from prefab parts. The parts are made of lightweight concrete that is made with volcanic ash and cinders. The volcanic material gives the concrete better thermal properties, letting it reflect heat more efficiently than standard masonry. Because they are a kit of manufactured parts, the cost is less than traditional masonry. The very best part is that they are available in large sizes, even up to five feet across. That will take some big logs.

    You can find out more about them at www.isokern.net and www.firerock.us.

If you would like to read more articles about house and home design, please visit my other website, www.about-home-design.com.

Bill Hirsch

www.designingyourperfecthouse.com

www.williamhirsch.com