Note: Long Island Hot Tub is now known as Best Hot Tubs

 

When the temperature slips, outdoor fireplaces become more than just attractive focal points: they extend our outdoor living season — and by several months with a little luck.

Options for outdoor fireplaces vary, including natural stone and pre-manufactured kits. The choices of burning fuel abound, too: various woods, natural gas, and liquid propane, for example.

Wood-burning fireplaces will probably give off the most heat, which is what we’re primarily looking for this time of year, but you will have to keep the fire stoked, deal with its smoke, especially if its windy, and it’s cinders require clean up. Natural gas, etc. is easier and cleaner, but there’s some sacrifice of heat.

Tip: Unlike a fire pit (see: http://www.longislandhottub.com/longisland_hot_tub_spa_blog/?p=1775) which can easily be moved to where people are gathering, it’s key to think carefully where you want to install a fireplace. When planning where to put it, consider wind direction, where it will make the most impact aesthetically, and where it is ideal for gathering around.

Also, don’t forget that fireplace guard. Safety, first! Another word of encouragement: Whatever material you choose for the fireplace, and whatever fuel — marshmallows will roast just fine on them all.

 

Outdoor Fireplace: At the edge of a patio, beside a lovely shingle-roof gazebo/pergola, this fireplace not only offers warmth in autumn and winter months but it creates the perfect ambience for conversation.

Outdoor Fireplace: At the edge of a patio, beside a lovely shingle-roof gazebo/pergola, this fireplace not only offers warmth in autumn and winter months but it creates the perfect ambience for conversation.

 

Spa and Outdoor Fireplace: A portable spa set under a pergola — and next to an outdoor pavilion — is the perfect night-time setting.

Spa and Outdoor Fireplace: A portable spa set under a pergola — and next to an outdoor pavilion — is the perfect night-time setting.

 

Outdoor Wood-burning Fireplace: This new wood-burning fireplace is made in cultured stone: Country Ledgestone, in the color “Bucks County.” The fire pit table is “Snowbird” made with a stainless steel burner; its clear fire jewels appear to be bubbling when the flame is lit.

Outdoor Wood-burning Fireplace: This new wood-burning fireplace is made in cultured stone: Country Ledgestone, in the color “Bucks County.” The fire pit table is “Snowbird” made with a stainless steel burner; its clear fire jewels appear to be bubbling when the flame is lit.

 

Budget Outdoor Fireplace: Budget fireplace and pergola kits can be half the price of custom ones and you can get a clear picture of what they will look like beforehand. Such kits can produce a beautiful outdoor stage for a Great Room – the perfect spot for star gazing and sharing good times with family and friends.

Budget Outdoor Fireplace: Budget fireplace and pergola kits can be half the price of custom ones and you can get a clear picture of what they will look like beforehand. Such kits can produce a beautiful outdoor stage for a Great Room – the perfect spot for star gazing and sharing good times with family and friends.