If you are considering an outdoor stone fireplace in your backyard, you have probably realized that there are many options. If you have already eliminated the idea of a fire pit, then you are looking at having a fireplace made from some sort of stone. These range from affordable to quite expensive, and mostly depend on the building materials used. There are three basic options for materials when it comes to stone fireplaces.

The first option is for a fireplace that is made out of a stone such as marble, limestone, or granite. These stones are cut to size and put together to build the fireplace. They are very attractive and are available in a variety of color and designs. Besides that, they are quite low maintenance and very durable. Granite in particular stands up well to weather including sun, rain, and snow. However, fireplaces made from these materials can be quite expensive, and often require a professional installation.

The next basic option is a fireplace made from natural stone. These are basically the same large stones that you find in your backyard, but they are polished, smoothed, and shaped to make them easier to work with. These stones are very durable and will hold up well in extreme weather conditions. They are also available in a wide variety of naturally-occurring colors. However, these stones can be difficult to work with, so they are not a good choice for many people.

The last option is one that seems to include the best of both worlds. Cultured stone is a newer option, consisting of stone-like pieces that are made out of resin. Because they are cast, these pieces can be any size or design. They also can be made in any color that you can imagine, including colors that are not found in nature. These cultured stones are lightweight and easy to handle, making installation much less of a hassle. They also stand up well to difficult weather, and will last many years with proper care.

If you are considering installing an outdoor stone fireplace, then marble, natural stone, or cultured stone are the three basic options that are available. They each have their advantages and disadvantages, including price, flexibility, and ease of installation and maintenance. In the end, it is best to look at samples of many different types of materials and decide what will work well for your situation and design.