Build Outdoor Fireplace With Cement Board

This outdoor fireplace looks like a solid concrete cube but this hollow box holds a standard propane tank and regulator the same components that fuel a typical gas grill.

Build outdoor fireplace with cement board.

Next you will build your firebox to whatever size you have chosen using firebrick and refractory cement from your local masonry supply. There s a secret inside this outdoor fireplace. Cut cement board to size using chop saw. To build an outdoor fireplace make a detailed plan of what the fireplace will be for where it will go and what will go around it.

The concrete also needs steel reinforcement. On the ground and drywall use thinset and screws to attach the cement board. The metal lath will provide support for the stone that will be placed on top. The door provides access to the burner controls.

The metal lath will provide support for the stone that will be placed on top. You will want a minimum 4 thick up to 8 thick reinforced concrete pad. Once your concrete footing has cured for 24 hrs or more you will need to build a level base on which to construct your firebox. But on the metal surround use high heat adhesive to attach the cement boards.

If you are building on a pre existing concrete pad or one much larger than your fireplace footprint be sure to form or cut expansion joints around the fireplace. I suggest 4 solid block for this purpose. Just remove the burner and lift out the tank when it needs to be refilled. Tap the sides with a hammer to release any bubbles that may be trapped in the concrete.

Run a long flat board or concrete screed across the top of the concrete laying it on the board edges to keep the board level. For smaller areas of frame use chop saw to cut cement boards to size. Nail gun nails drill screws chop saw shovel chimney cap protective gloves screwdriver masonry anchors or bits. Use screws to attach metal lath which is a wire mesh over all of the exposed cement board.

Move the board back and forth as you slide it across the concrete adding more concrete to fill in any gaps around the edges. We had a plan of attack. Using drill attach cement boards to frame with concrete screws.