Why Shortcuts Fail
Prefab kits set on pavers, missing footings and standard brick in the firebox all show up as problems later: leaning chimneys, cracked mortar, spalling brick and smoke that rolls out the front. Red clay soils common across North Mississippi can shift with wet and dry seasons, so a fireplace this heavy needs a properly sized concrete footing below it.
Three Finish Styles
Classic brick
Brick suits traditional homes and can be matched to existing masonry. The firebox is lined with firebrick and refractory mortar.
Natural or veneer stone
Full stone feels substantial; manufactured or thin natural veneer gives a similar look with less weight and cost.
Stucco
A smooth or textured stucco finish over block suits modern and Mediterranean-inspired homes and can be tinted to match.
Our Construction Steps
- Design and placement, including clearances from the house and trees.
- Excavation and a reinforced concrete footing.
- Block core, firebox in firebrick and a smoke chamber sized for good draft.
- Chimney with cap and spark arrestor.
- Finish masonry, hearth and any built-in wood storage or seating.
Gas lines or log lighters are installed before finish work. Read our Mississippi outdoor fireplace guide for more planning tips.
Caring for an Outdoor Fireplace
Clean out ash regularly, have the chimney checked for nests and creosote, and inspect mortar joints each spring. Sealing stone or brick with a breathable masonry sealer helps in our humid climate. If you are still comparing fireplaces with pits and fire tables, our outdoor fire features page compares them.
Common Questions
Which material is best for an outdoor fireplace?
Brick, stone and stucco all perform well when built over a block core with a firebrick-lined firebox. The best choice is usually the one that complements your house. We show samples during design.
Can I have a gas or wood-burning fireplace?
Either can be built. Wood-burning units need a full chimney with proper draft; gas units can be built with a log set or burner. Some clients add a gas starter to a wood firebox.
How long does an outdoor fireplace take to build?
Masonry fireplaces typically take longer than other outdoor projects because footings, block and mortar need curing time. We give a schedule with your estimate based on size and finish.
Does an outdoor fireplace need a permit in Oxford?
It may, depending on the structure and any gas work. We review requirements during planning and let you know before construction starts.