Custom Outdoor Fireplace Ideas, Costs & Materials

Your home is a reflection of your personal style, and your outdoor space should be no different. While anyone can buy a fire pit, a custom outdoor fireplace offers a unique opportunity to create a true architectural centerpiece tailored specifically to you. This is your chance to be the designer. You can choose the exact stone or brick to complement your home’s exterior, select a shape that fits your patio perfectly, and even add integrated features like built-in seating or wood storage. Whether you dream of a grand, rustic hearth or a sleek, modern design, this guide will show you how to bring that vision to life, exploring all the ways you can personalize your fireplace.

Key Takeaways

• Make It More Than a Fireplace: Personalize your design by choosing materials that match your home’s style and integrating functional features like built-in seating or wood storage to create a true outdoor living hub.
• Prioritize Placement and Permits: The success of your project hinges on the details. Ensure your chosen location is safe, has a solid foundation, and complies with all local building codes to prevent costly headaches and ensure long-term stability.
• Commit to Simple, Regular Care: An outdoor fireplace is a lasting investment that requires routine upkeep. Simple tasks like clearing ashes, cleaning the exterior, and scheduling an annual inspection will keep it safe, beautiful, and ready for enjoyment year-round.

What is a Custom Outdoor Fireplace?

Think of a custom outdoor fireplace as the heart of your backyard—a permanent, built-in structure designed specifically for your space and style. Unlike a portable fire pit, a custom fireplace is a significant architectural feature that anchors your outdoor living area. The best part is that you get to call the shots on every detail. You can choose the exact materials, shape, size, and special features to create a unique focal point that perfectly complements your home and patio.

Whether you envision a grand, stone-faced hearth for large family gatherings or a sleek, modern fireplace integrated into a cozy seating area, a custom build makes it possible. It’s about creating a functional piece of art that not only provides warmth but also defines the atmosphere of your entire outdoor space. This level of personalization ensures the final result feels like a natural extension of your home. From the initial 2D and 3D designs to the final stone laid, every element is tailored to your vision, turning your backyard into a true outdoor retreat.

Exploring Fireplace Types

When you start planning your fireplace, you’ll find a wide range of materials and styles to match any aesthetic. Natural stone offers a classic, rustic appeal that blends beautifully with garden landscapes, while brick provides a timeless, durable look that complements traditional homes. For a more modern or minimalist vibe, concrete and steel can create clean lines and a sophisticated finish. The material you choose does more than just define the style; it also impacts the fireplace’s performance and longevity. Thinking about how the fireplace will fit with your existing paver patio or pool deck can help you select a material that creates a cohesive and inviting design.

The Benefits of a Custom Design

A custom outdoor fireplace does more than just keep you warm on a chilly evening; it completely transforms your backyard into a destination. It creates an irresistible gathering spot for friends and family, encouraging you to spend more time outside throughout the year. This addition extends your home’s living space, giving you a cozy retreat for relaxing, entertaining, or simply enjoying a quiet night under the stars. Beyond the immediate enjoyment, a well-designed outdoor fireplace is a smart investment that can significantly increase your property value. By working with a professional on your fire feature installation, you ensure the design is not only beautiful but also safe, functional, and built to last.

How Can You Customize Your Outdoor Fireplace?

A custom outdoor fireplace is so much more than a source of warmth; it’s the heart of your backyard. It’s where you’ll gather with family for cozy evenings, entertain friends, and make lasting memories. The best part about a custom build is that you get to design a feature that perfectly reflects your style and fits how you live. From the materials you choose to the special features you add, every detail can be tailored to you. Let’s walk through the key ways you can personalize your outdoor fireplace to create a stunning and functional centerpiece for your home.

Pick Your Materials

The material you choose for your fireplace sets the entire mood for your outdoor space. It’s the first thing people will notice, and it determines both the look and the long-term durability of your structure. Natural stone offers a classic, rugged appeal that blends beautifully with garden landscapes, while brick provides a timeless, traditional feel that complements many home exteriors. For a more modern or minimalist vibe, you might consider sleek concrete or stucco. Each option has its own unique texture and color palette, giving you the freedom to create a look that’s all your own. You can browse a project gallery to see how different materials look in real-world backyards.

Find Your Style

Once you have an idea of materials, you can start thinking about the overall style. Do you want your fireplace to feel like a rustic retreat or a chic, modern lounge? The design should feel like a natural extension of your home and patio. For example, stucco is a popular choice for homes with a Southwestern or Mediterranean aesthetic, but it can also create a clean, contemporary finish. A fireplace built with stacked stone can create a cozy, lodge-like atmosphere perfect for an Orange County evening. Visualizing your options with 2D/3D designs can help you see how different styles will integrate with your existing outdoor living area before you commit.

Get the Size and Shape Right

Scale is everything when it comes to designing your fireplace. You want it to be a focal point, but you don’t want it to overwhelm your yard. A large, grand fireplace can make a powerful statement in a spacious backyard, while a more modestly sized one can create an intimate gathering spot on a smaller paver patio. The shape also plays a big role in the final look. You can stick with a classic rectangular design or opt for something more unique, like a design with a graceful arch or a double-sided opening. Keep in mind that the size and complexity of the design are key factors that will influence the final cost.

Add Features and Integrations

This is where you can get really creative and make your fireplace work for your lifestyle. Think beyond the firebox and consider what other elements would make your outdoor space more enjoyable. You could add built-in seating walls on either side, creating a permanent and comfortable conversation nook. Or, you could incorporate wood storage boxes for convenience and a rustic touch. For the ultimate entertainment hub, you can design the structure to include a mounted TV or even have it anchor a complete outdoor kitchen installation. These integrations turn your fireplace from a simple feature into a multi-functional destination for cooking, relaxing, and entertaining.

Choosing the Best Materials for Your Fireplace

The material you choose for your outdoor fireplace does more than just look good—it sets the tone for your entire backyard and determines how much upkeep you’ll face down the road. Think of it as the foundation of your outdoor living room’s style. Whether you’re drawn to the rustic charm of natural stone or the clean lines of modern concrete, your choice should complement your home’s architecture and your existing hardscaping. Let’s walk through the most popular options to help you find the perfect fit for your space.

Natural Stone and Brick

For a timeless, classic look, you can’t go wrong with natural stone or brick. Natural stone offers an organic, rustic charm that blends beautifully with garden landscapes. It’s incredibly durable and stands up to the elements, making it a long-lasting choice. Each stone is unique, giving your fireplace a one-of-a-kind character.

Brick is another fantastic option, known for its traditional feel and exceptional durability. It brings a sense of warmth and history to a space, pairing perfectly with classic home styles. A brick firepit installation creates an inviting focal point for family gatherings and cozy evenings, offering a familiar aesthetic that never goes out of style.

Steel and Metal

If your home has a more contemporary vibe, steel and other metals can create a striking, modern fireplace. These materials offer a sleek, industrial-chic appearance that acts as a bold statement piece. Steel is not only stylish but also highly durable and resistant to weather, especially when properly treated or powder-coated. You can achieve different looks, from the rustic, weathered patina of Corten steel to the polished finish of stainless steel. A metal fireplace can be the perfect centerpiece in a minimalist backyard design, proving that outdoor comfort can also be cutting-edge.

Concrete and Other Modern Finishes

Concrete is the ultimate chameleon of fireplace materials, making it ideal for custom, modern designs. Because it can be poured and molded into almost any shape, it gives you complete creative freedom. You can opt for a smooth, polished finish for a sleek look or choose a textured or stamped surface for more visual interest. Concrete can also be tinted in a wide range of colors to perfectly match your paver patio or other outdoor elements. This versatility allows you to create a truly integrated and contemporary outdoor living space tailored exactly to your vision.

How to Compare Durability and Aesthetics

When choosing your materials, it’s all about balancing durability with your personal style. Natural stone and brick are champions of longevity and offer a classic, enduring beauty. Metal provides a sleek, modern look with excellent weather resistance. Concrete delivers unmatched versatility for custom shapes and finishes. Think about your home’s overall aesthetic and the Orange County climate. The best material will not only look great on day one but will also harmonize with your landscape and stand the test of time. Visualizing your options with 2D/3D designs can help you see how each material will transform your space.

How Much Does a Custom Outdoor Fireplace Cost?

Let’s talk numbers. While it’s impossible to give a single price tag for a custom project, understanding the budget is a crucial first step. The final cost of your outdoor fireplace depends entirely on your vision, materials, and property. A simple, rustic wood-burning fireplace will have a different price point than an elaborate, gas-powered centerpiece with built-in seating. Think of it as building a custom feature tailored specifically to your home and lifestyle.

What Influences the Final Price?

Several key elements will shape your project’s budget. The biggest factors influencing the cost are size, design complexity, and materials. A larger, more intricate fireplace will naturally cost more than a smaller, simpler one. Your choice of materials—from classic brick to elegant natural stone—plays a huge role, as does the fuel source you select. A wood-burning fireplace has different requirements than a gas one, which needs a dedicated line. Finally, the location on your property and any necessary permits can also influence the cost. We can help you explore these variables with our 2D/3D designs to visualize how different choices impact the final look and price.

Understanding Installation and Labor Costs

Beyond materials, the installation process itself is a significant part of your investment. Professional labor ensures your fireplace is not only beautiful but also safe and built to last. The cost of labor depends on the complexity of the job. This includes preparing the site, pouring a stable foundation, and the skilled masonry work required to construct the fireplace. If you’re opting for a gas model, that involves running and connecting a gas line. The accessibility of your backyard for our crew and equipment can also be a factor. These installation considerations are why a professional assessment is so important for an accurate quote.

Is It a Good Investment?

Absolutely. An outdoor fireplace is more than just a beautiful feature; it’s an investment in your home and your quality of life. It transforms your backyard into a warm, inviting hub for making memories with family and friends, extending your living space well into the cooler evenings. This kind of upgrade is a major selling point that can significantly increase your home’s market value. By creating a cozy and functional outdoor retreat, you’re not just spending money—you’re adding tangible value and countless nights of enjoyment. You can see how these features transform a space in our project gallery.

DIY vs. Professional Installation: Which is Right for You?

Deciding to add a custom fireplace to your backyard is exciting, but it comes with a big question: should you tackle it yourself or call in the pros? This choice comes down to balancing your budget, timeline, and skill set. While the idea of a weekend project can be tempting, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each path before you start buying materials. Let’s walk through what to consider so you can make the best decision for your home and peace of mind.

The Pros and Cons of DIY Kits

The biggest draw for any DIY project is usually the potential for cost savings. By taking on the labor yourself, you can cut a significant expense from your budget. Fireplace kits are designed to make this process more approachable, providing pre-cut materials and a set of instructions. For those with a solid understanding of construction and design, a DIY kit can be a rewarding way to create a custom feature without the professional price tag. However, it’s not without its risks. A DIY approach means you’re solely responsible for safety, structural integrity, and compliance with local building codes, which can be a heavy lift if you’re not experienced.

Why Hire a Professional?

Hiring a professional for your firepit installation offers one thing above all else: confidence. A professional team ensures your fireplace is built correctly, functions safely, and meets all local regulations—a crucial factor for any structure involving fire. Professionals can also help you avoid common but costly mistakes, like building on a poor foundation or choosing materials that won’t stand up to the heat and weather over time. They handle the entire process, from sourcing high-quality materials to the final cleanup, saving you from potential headaches and ensuring the final product is both beautiful and durable. This expertise is what turns a good idea into a stunning, long-lasting feature of your home.

Making the Best Choice for Your Home

So, how do you choose? Start with an honest assessment of your own abilities. Consider your skill level, the complexity of the fireplace you envision, and how much time you can realistically dedicate to the project. If you’re planning a simple, straightforward design and have a background in construction, a DIY kit might be a great fit. But for more intricate designs or if you value long-term durability and guaranteed safety, a professional installation is a wise investment. Looking through a project gallery can help you see the level of quality and creativity a professional team brings, ensuring your new fireplace becomes a favorite gathering spot for years to come.

Where Should You Put Your Outdoor Fireplace?

Deciding where to place your outdoor fireplace is just as important as choosing its style and materials. The right spot can turn a simple patio into a stunning focal point, while the wrong one can create safety hazards and disrupt the flow of your backyard. A well-placed fireplace feels intentional, creating a natural gathering spot that invites you to relax and connect with family and friends.

When planning the location, you need to balance three key factors: safety regulations, integration with your existing landscape, and the overall function of your outdoor living area. Thinking through these elements beforehand ensures your new fireplace not only looks beautiful but also works perfectly for your lifestyle. From considering prevailing winds to making sure you have enough clearance from your home, a little strategic planning goes a long way. This process helps you create a cozy, safe, and practical retreat you’ll enjoy for years.

Key Safety and Clearance Rules

Before you fall in love with a specific spot, let’s talk about safety. Your number one priority is ensuring your fireplace is a safe distance from any combustible materials. This includes your home’s siding, fences, low-hanging tree branches, and even your patio furniture. Every outdoor fireplace also needs a proper chimney or vent system to direct smoke up and away from your seating area and home.

It’s also essential to check your local Orange County building codes and any HOA guidelines. These rules often dictate specific clearance requirements and may have regulations about wood-burning versus gas fireplaces. A professional firepit installation team can help you understand these local requirements to ensure your project is fully compliant from the start, giving you complete peace of mind.

Integrating with Your Patio and Yard

Your outdoor fireplace should feel like a natural extension of your home and landscape. Think of it as the anchor for your outdoor living room. A great way to achieve this is by making it the focal point of a paver patio, with seating arranged around it to encourage conversation. This creates a distinct “room” within your backyard, perfect for evening gatherings.

You can also integrate your fireplace with other outdoor features. Placing it near an outdoor kitchen, for example, creates a complete entertainment zone where you can cook, dine, and relax. Consider the views as well—both from your patio and from inside your house. A beautifully designed fireplace can enhance a lovely view or cleverly screen a less attractive one, adding to the overall ambiance of your property.

Considering Function and Foot Traffic

How will you and your guests move around your new fireplace? It’s a simple question, but one that’s often overlooked. You want to avoid placing your fireplace in a location that blocks a natural pathway, such as the route from your back door to the pool or garden. The goal is to create a cozy destination, not an obstacle.

Think about convenience and prevailing winds. Placing the fireplace reasonably close to the house makes it easier to bring out drinks and snacks. At the same time, pay attention to which way the wind typically blows in your yard to prevent smoke from drifting into your seating area or back toward your home. Using 2D/3D designs can help you visualize the layout and traffic flow before breaking ground, ensuring the final placement is perfect.

Get Inspired: Popular Outdoor Fireplace Designs

A custom outdoor fireplace is more than just a source of heat; it’s the heart of your backyard. It creates a natural gathering spot, sets the mood, and can anchor your entire outdoor design. The right style transforms a simple patio into a luxurious retreat for year-round enjoyment. Whether you envision a cozy, rustic hearth for family nights or a sleek, modern centerpiece for entertaining guests, the design possibilities are endless. The best place to start is by exploring different styles to see what resonates with you. Take a look at a project gallery to see how different materials and shapes come together in real-world backyards. Finding a look you love will help guide every other decision, from materials to placement.

Timeless Traditional and Rustic Styles

If you’re drawn to classic, warm, and inviting spaces, a traditional or rustic fireplace is a perfect fit. These designs often feel like they’ve been part of the landscape for years, creating a sense of permanence and comfort. Natural stone is a popular choice here, offering a rugged, organic texture that blends beautifully with outdoor surroundings. Brick is another excellent option, providing a timeless look with clean lines and a touch of classic charm. These styles are all about creating a cozy atmosphere where friends and family can gather, share stories, and relax by the fire. They work well in almost any setting, from a sprawling garden to a structured paver patio.

Clean Modern and Contemporary Looks

For those who prefer clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, a modern or contemporary fireplace makes a bold statement. These designs focus on simple geometric shapes, smooth textures, and a neutral color palette. Materials like poured concrete, stucco, and steel are common, creating a sleek and sophisticated finish. You can also create a striking visual by combining different materials, like smooth concrete with sections of stone veneer for a touch of texture. A modern fireplace acts as a functional piece of art, providing warmth while enhancing the architectural style of your home and outdoor space. It’s an ideal choice for creating an elegant and uncluttered entertainment area.

Designing a Multi-Functional Entertainment Space

Why stop at just a fireplace? You can integrate your custom fireplace into a complete outdoor living area. Think of it as the anchor for a multi-functional space designed for entertaining. You could add built-in seating walls that flow directly from the hearth, creating a cozy and permanent conversation pit. Or, position your fireplace adjacent to an outdoor kitchen installation to create a seamless environment for cooking, dining, and relaxing. This approach turns your backyard into a true extension of your home, providing a central hub where you can host everything from casual family dinners to large get-togethers with friends.

Common (and Costly) Mistakes to Avoid

Building a custom outdoor fireplace is an exciting project, but a few common missteps can quickly turn your dream into a major headache. Getting ahead of these issues will save you time, money, and stress, ensuring your new backyard feature is a source of enjoyment for years to come. When you’re making a significant investment in your home, it’s worth taking the time to get every detail right from the very beginning. Let’s walk through the most critical mistakes to sidestep during your planning and building process.

Forgetting Permits and Local Codes

It’s easy to get caught up in design details and forget about the paperwork, but skipping permits is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Building codes aren’t just bureaucratic red tape; they exist to ensure your fireplace is structurally sound and safe for you, your family, and your neighbors. Failing to secure the right permits can lead to hefty fines or even an order to tear down your brand-new fireplace. Before a single stone is laid, you or your contractor must check with your local city or county office to understand the specific requirements. A professional firepit installation team will handle this for you, making sure your project is fully compliant from day one.

Choosing the Wrong Location or Foundation

Where you place your fireplace impacts everything from safety to usability. A poorly chosen spot might put your home or overhanging trees at risk, or it could send smoke billowing directly into your seating area every time the wind shifts. Think carefully about foot traffic, prevailing winds, and clearance from combustible materials. Just as important is the ground underneath. A heavy masonry fireplace requires a solid, level foundation to prevent it from shifting, cracking, or settling over time. Building on an unstable base is a recipe for disaster, leading to expensive repairs. A professionally installed paver patio often provides the perfect, durable foundation for your outdoor fireplace.

Overlooking Ventilation and Safety

A beautiful fireplace is useless if you can’t sit near it comfortably. Proper ventilation is key to a functional design. The chimney needs to be the right height and width to draw smoke up and away from your gathering space, ensuring you can enjoy the warmth without watery eyes and a coughing fit. An experienced designer will factor airflow and smoke draw into the plan from the start. Other safety features, like spark arrestors and maintaining adequate distance from flammable materials, are also non-negotiable. Using 2D/3D designs can help you visualize these functional elements and confirm that your fireplace is as safe as it is stunning.

Clearing Up Common Misconceptions

An outdoor fireplace is a fantastic addition to any home, but a few common myths can create confusion during the planning process. It’s easy to get swept up in the design and forget about the practical details that make a fireplace both safe and functional. Let’s clear the air on some of these misconceptions so you can move forward with confidence, knowing you’re making smart, informed decisions for your backyard oasis. Getting these facts straight from the start ensures your finished project is everything you dreamed it would be—a beautiful, cozy, and lasting feature for your home.

Myths About Safety and Maintenance

One of the biggest myths is that an outdoor fireplace is a “set it and forget it” feature. While they are built to be durable, they do require some simple, regular care to operate safely. Think of it like any other important part of your home. To prevent a dangerous buildup of soot and residue, you should plan to clean out the chimney at least once a year. It’s also critical to ensure your fireplace is properly ventilated to prevent smoke and carbon monoxide from becoming a problem. A professional firepit installation will always prioritize these safety measures, giving you peace of mind every time you light a fire.

Misconceptions About Space Requirements

It’s tempting to choose a spot for your fireplace based purely on aesthetics, but this can lead to major issues. A common mistake is “not thinking about space” and how the structure will fit into the flow of your yard. A fireplace that’s too large can overwhelm a patio, while one that’s poorly placed can create awkward traffic patterns. More importantly, the structure needs a solid foundation. A “poor foundation or base” can compromise the stability and safety of the entire fireplace. This is where professional planning with 2D/3D designs becomes invaluable, helping you visualize the layout and ensure every element works together perfectly.

Can You Use It Year-Round?

Absolutely! Many people wonder if an outdoor fireplace is only useful for a few months of the year, but in Orange County, it’s a feature you can enjoy year-round. An outdoor fireplace transforms your backyard into a cozy retreat, creating a natural gathering space for friends and family on cool evenings, no matter the season. It extends the hours and days you can comfortably spend outside, making your patio or backyard a true extension of your living space. Plus, this kind of addition is a fantastic investment that can increase the market value of your home. Take a look at our gallery to see how homeowners are enjoying their outdoor spaces throughout the year.

How to Maintain Your Custom Outdoor Fireplace

Your outdoor fireplace is the heart of your backyard—a place for gathering, relaxing, and making memories. To keep it safe, beautiful, and ready for every occasion, a little routine maintenance goes a long way. Taking care of your fireplace isn’t complicated, but it’s essential for protecting its structure and ensuring it performs perfectly for years. Regular cleaning prevents soot buildup, which can tarnish the materials, and allows you to spot any potential issues like small cracks before they become bigger problems.

Think of it as protecting your investment. Just a few simple steps each season will preserve the beauty and function of your custom fireplace, making sure it remains a stunning focal point in your outdoor living area. Whether you have a grand stone structure or a sleek, modern design, this guide will walk you through the straightforward process of keeping it in top condition.

Simple Steps for Regular Upkeep

The best way to keep your fireplace looking great is with small, consistent actions. After you’ve enjoyed a fire, wait until everything has completely cooled and then clear out the ashes. Removing this buildup is important because it allows for better airflow, which means easier starts and more efficient fires next time. For the exterior, a gentle cleaning is all it takes. Use a soft-bristled brush and warm, soapy water to scrub away any dirt, dust, or light soot stains. This simple habit prevents grime from setting in and keeps your stone, brick, or concrete looking fresh.

Your Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

At least once a year, it’s a good idea to give your fireplace a more thorough check-up. This is the perfect time to inspect the chimney. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, use a wire brush to clean out any soot or creosote residue from the flue to maintain safety and proper ventilation. You should also take a close look at the entire structure, checking the mortar and stones for any cracks or chips that may have appeared over time. Addressing these minor repairs early can prevent more significant damage down the road. For gas fireplaces, check that all connections are secure and the burners are clear of debris.

Protecting Your Investment for Years to Come

Beyond your own cleaning efforts, consider hiring a professional chimney sweep annually. They have the tools and expertise to do a deep clean and can identify potential issues you might miss. This is one of the best ways to ensure your fireplace operates safely. Another simple yet effective step is using a high-quality, waterproof cover during rainy seasons or any long periods when you won’t be using it. This protects the materials from moisture and harsh weather, which is key to preventing stains and structural wear. Consistent care ensures your firepit installation remains a valuable and beloved part of your home.

Related Articles

• Wood Burning Outdoor Fireplace: A Complete Guide – Pacific Pavers
• Benefits of Fire Features in Outdoor Kitchens – Pacific Pavers
• Top 10 Outdoor Fire Pit Trends 2025 – Pacific Pavers

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the real difference between a fire pit and a custom fireplace? Think of a fire pit as a campfire-style gathering spot, which is wonderful for casual get-togethers. A custom fireplace, on the other hand, is a permanent architectural feature. It acts as a true focal point for your outdoor living room, providing a strong vertical element and a more structured sense of place. It also does a much better job of directing smoke up and away from your seating area, thanks to its chimney.

How long does it take to build a custom outdoor fireplace? The timeline for a custom fireplace really depends on the complexity of your design and the permit process. A straightforward project might take a few weeks from start to finish, while a more intricate design with integrated features could take longer. The process includes finalizing the design, securing any necessary permits, preparing the foundation, and the actual construction. We can give you a much more specific timeline once we understand your vision.

Do I need a permit for an outdoor fireplace in Orange County? In most cases, yes. Building a permanent structure like a fireplace typically requires a permit to ensure it meets local safety and construction codes. These regulations are in place to protect you and your property. The good news is that when you work with an experienced contractor, they handle the entire permitting process for you, so you don’t have to worry about the paperwork.

Can I add a fireplace to my existing patio? Absolutely, this is a very common project. The most important factor is making sure your existing patio has a proper foundation that can support the weight of the new fireplace. A professional will need to assess the site to confirm the structural integrity before starting any work. This step ensures your new fireplace will be stable and secure for years to come.

Is a wood-burning or gas fireplace better for my backyard? This really comes down to the experience you want. A wood-burning fireplace offers that classic, rustic ambiance with the sound of crackling logs and the traditional campfire smell. It requires a bit more effort with sourcing wood and cleaning ashes. A gas fireplace offers incredible convenience—you can start a fire with the flip of a switch. It’s also very clean-burning with no smoke or embers to worry about, making it a low-maintenance option.