Stone Outdoor Fireplaces

Today's choices in stone outdoor fireplaces surpass anything that was possible a decade or so ago.  Given the nearly limitless array of material choices, as well as the mountain of variations within each material type, the sky is truly the limit. With some imagination and creativity, you can conjure up an outside fire space so breathtaking it will leave your friends and neighbors breathless!

The incredible range of stone types,  textures  and
colors available today -- whether natural,  manufac-
tured or cast  --  makes  it  possible to get the look
you want on nearly any budget.   Natural stone, the
most durable material, is certainly impressive, wheth-
er fieldstone, river stone or limestone.    Though the
most durable,  natural stone is also the heaviest ma-
terial and will likely require a foundation and footings.
That,  in  conjunction  with  the  higher  cost of the
stone,  itself,  as  well as the skilled labor needed to
build it,  makes  it  the  costliest  outdoor stone fire-
place option.

However,  due to advances in technology and processing techniques,  it is now  possible  to closely replicate the look and feel of natural stone with a manufactured or cast stone product.   For a mildly textured to rugged and rustic look, cultured stone comes very close to the look and feel of natural stone.

If you're going for a more refined or Old World look and feel,  you  will  find several choices in cast stone mantels and surrounds. The smooth textures and finishes of these products are offered in a variety of mostly traditional styles.

Another, albeit more recent, material gaining in popularity for stone outdoor fireplaces  is  natural thin stone veneer,  which  is  cut  from  natural stone quarried from the earth. Unlike traditional full-dimension stone which is typ-
ically three to five inches in depth,  thin veneer  is only 3/4 to 1 1/4 inches and much lighter in weight.     Consequently,  it  doesn't  require  any load bearing foundations or footings.

For ease of installation,  some  manufacturers now offer thin stone veneer in preassembled modular panels in a wide range  of  stone types,  textures, colors and configurations.    A natural product,  thin stone veneer is color-
fast, will not fade, and resists chipping and scratching.  It's like having the best  of  both worlds . . . . . . you get the beauty and durability of natural stone without the traditionally high cost!

Regardless of which way you decide  to  go,  stone -- in  any  form -- is a fantastic medium for creative expression when used in the  building  of  an outside hearth.   Not only does an outdoor stone fireplace offer year round enjoyment with family and friends, but it adds real value to your home,  as well!

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