Long-Term Costs of Operating an Outdoor Fire Feature in Bethesda, Maryland

Nothing provides quite the same blend of ambiance and function as an outdoor fire feature, but many people wonder about price. With so many fire features to choose from, which one is going to provide all the aesthetic beauty and functional warmth without breaking the bank?

This article compares three of the most common fire feature types: natural wood-burning fireplaces, biofuel fireplaces, and natural gas fires. For the sake of comparison, electric heaters are also included below. While not a traditional fire feature, they are a common alternative for those looking to heat their outdoor spaces.

You’ve thought of it for years. A gorgeous deck or porch you can comfortably use year round. There are many decisions to make, but 2 major choices stand out: choosing a screening system (whether it's retractable or not ) and climate control. With climate control, outdoor ceiling fans may work well for warm weather, but you won't be able to enjoy the fall or winter months without a heating unit to keep you warm. There are 2 options you can choose from: outdoor fireplaces and electric outdoor heaters. If you would like to learn more about electric outdoor heaters, we have that information right here. In this blog, Design Builders discusses the ins-and-outs of outdoor fireplaces for screened porches, screened-in decks, and covered patios.  

Outdoor heating is a must and and fire is......cool!  Whats the best way to heat your outdoor space and make it look great?

Things to Considerations when Building a Fire Feature in your Outdoor Space

One of the most common add-ons for decks and patios is a fire feature. Whether it’s for the ambiance, the look, the functionality, or some combination thereof, backyard fire pits are extremely popular outdoor living space accessories in Maryland, Virginia, and the District. While there's no universal standard to what makes the most effective fire pit design, there are some guidelines you can discuss with your local deck contractor about pitfalls to avoid and possible issues to consider.

The most ground-level deck (portion closest to the driveway) connects the front pathway, rear garage exit, and sun room exit to the backyard. It features a wide, curved staircase and other landings to accommodate the various entry and exit points, as well as an upper grilling space/alternative grill and barbecue area to the pavilion.

Which is better: Wood-Burning Fireplaces or EcoSmart Biofuel Fireplaces?

There’s nothing quite like the ambiance and visual appeal of a fire in your home, but not all fire features are equally well suited to every home. From size to installation considerations to aesthetics, you have to decide what type of fireplace represents the best value for your home. Two such possible features are natural fireplaces (a.k.a. wood-burning) and EcoSmart Fire biofuel fireplaces. To determine which would be the better fit for you, read on to discover their core differences.