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Move It Outside Pt. 2: Outdoor Fireplace and Lights DIY pro Jay Baker helps outfit a home for outdoor entertaining. Project number two is the installation of an outdoor fireplace. From "Move It Outside" episode DMIO-102

(Continued from page 2)

Modular Fireplace: Assembly, Installation and Stonework

After the concrete foundation has thoroughly dried, begin assembling the modular fireplace (figure H).

Important: When laying the mortar between each piece of the fireplace, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the fireplace.

• When the body of the fireplace is in place and the mortar has dried, firebrick is laid along the inside of the fireplace (figure I). Attach each firebrick to the fireplace with mortar and use a concrete saw to cut bricks for the corners and/or smaller areas. The bottom is laid down first, the back and sides come next. Use a level to make sure the fireplace is even.

  Figure H

  Figure I

  
  

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  Figure J

• While the mortar between the firebricks is drying, you may begin the stucco process.

• Following the instructions on the bag, mix mortar to perfect consistency.

• Apply a base coat of mortar mix (1/8 to 1/4 inch thick) to the back, front, and sides of the fireplace (figure J).
  

  	Figure K
  	Figure L
  	Figure M

• Lightly run a rake along the base coat. This allows the final coat to firmly bond to the lampposts.

• While the base coat is drying, mix sand into the mortar until the stucco color you desire is created.

• Then, cover the base coat with a layer of stucco and stipple with a brush or sponge.

• Lightly run a trowel across the stucco to smooth the 'pitted' surface.

• Allow ample time for the stucco to dry.

• After the stucco has dried, it's time to put the fabricated stone around the base and across the face of the fireplace.

  Note: We opted to use fabricated stone because it is such a large area to cover and fabricated stone is much cheaper and lighter than real stone).

• First, apply a base coat of mortar mix (1/8 to 1/4 inch thick) to the base and face of the fireplace.

• After the base coat has dried, attach each piece of fabricated stone to the fireplace with mortar (figures K, L and M).

  Tip: For the base, begin placing stones at the top and work your way down. Use a concrete saw to cut pieces for the edge.

• After the base and face of the fireplace are complete, cover the top of the base, the mantle, and the top of the fireplace with real stone.
  

  Figure N

  Figure O

  
  

  Figure P

• Lay a bed of mortar on the base, mantle and top of the fireplace then place the stones on top of the mortar, cutting the stone with a concrete saw whenever necessary (figure N).

• Use a level to make sure the stone is even and leveled.

• After all of the mortar has dried, fill the pad in the center of the fireplace with fire glass.

  Note: Fire glass burns without producing any smoke, ash, or odor (figure O). It's available in a variety of colors.

• Attach the propane line to the fireplace, and it's ready to use (figure P).

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