Screened Porches Featuring Fireplaces

As summer breezes transition to autumn chills, homeowners seek ways to extend porch enjoyment into the cooler months. By incorporating fireplaces into screened porch designs, families can relax by the fire's glow through all four seasons.

Outdoor fireplaces not only provide flickering ambiance but also radiate warmth to take the bite out of spring and fall evenings. Screened porches prevent stray sparks while allowing porch parties to admire the flames. Whether wood-burning or gas, fireplaces create a cozy centerpiece for gatherings with s'mores and hot cider when temperatures drop.

Choosing Fireplace Types for Screened Porches

Wood Burning Fireplaces

Traditional wood burning fireplaces infuse screened porches with rustic charm. The scent of burning oak or cedar enhances the outdoor aroma while crackling logs provide a nostalgic soundtrack. Freestanding brick fireplaces give designers flexibility regarding placement. Custom built-in fireboxes allow chimneys to vent through porch ceilings.

However, wood fire maintenance requires stocking firewood, removing ashes and conducting annual chimney cleanings. Open flames also mandate extra safety precautions like fire extinguishers, screens and monitoring children and pets.

Vented Gas Fireplaces

For convenience, vented gas logs provide the ambiance of fireplaces without the mess of wood. Available in pre-fabricated boxes or custom designs, gas fireplaces insert into porch walls with flexible venting options. Just tap a remote starter switch, and flames ignite without smoke or ash.

While vent-free gas fireplaces cost less upfront, they can release moisture and combustion particles inside the porch. Vented gas models maintain airflow for a healthier environment. Fireglass crystals mimic shifting coals, but lack wood's nostalgic scent.

Gel Fuel Fireplaces

Requiring no ventilation or utility connections, gel fuel fireplaces offer portable crackling fire ambiance. Fueled by bio-ethanol cans, the liquid gel burns clean without smoke or ash. Tabletop models allow placement flexibility from patios to porches.

However, gel fireplaces emit less heat than wood-burning or gas models and do not accommodate cooking s'mores or hot dogs. Refueling gel canisters also adds ongoing costs for flame enjoyment.

Designing Porch Fireplaces

When incorporating fireplaces into porch plans, designers evaluate footprint dimensions, materials, airflow and sightlines. Fireboxes require non-combustible surrounds, with stone, brick or tile as attractive options matching home exteriors. For airflow, upper chimneys need the tallest roof exit point.

Consider sightlines for optimal fire viewing, factoring in ceiling fans or beams. Locate seating to reflect firelight ambiance during evening relaxation. In two-story rooms, avoid cutting the chimney through the floor of the upper level.

Placement Considerations

The long and narrow shape of many screened porches allows centering the fireplace on one end or in the middle of a wider wall. Avoid placing too close to insect screening. Consider framing with an indoor/outdoor fireplace built into the wallyet allowing the screen a safe fireproof perimeter.

Traffic Flow and Furnishings

When planning the fireplace, envision traffic zones during porch gatherings. Avoid blocking prime viewing sightlines with furnishings. While the fireplace creates a natural furniture focal point, leave adequate area for recliners pulled close on cooler nights. Hard surfaces like slate tile or brick extend the hearth around the fireplace.

Creating Atmosphere with Porch Fireplaces

Cozy Seating Areas

Arranging furniture to reflect fireplace radiance establishes a warm, welcoming ambiance. Angle lounge chairs, two-seat gliders or curving sectional sofas toward the flames. Centered 9-foot ceilings accommodate hanging swings for an overhead fire view. Let the fireplace decor establish the design scheme for lamps, rugs and accent pillows.

Protecting Floors and Furnishings

While the fire warms porch interiors, flames also radiate heat outward. Protect surfaces close to the hearth with fire-resistant materials. Slate stone, brick flooring or concrete extend the fireplace surround. Look for metal or well-sealed wood furnishings rated for high temperatures from sparks. Avoid highly flammable fabrics next to the fireside.

Ambiance Lighting

Strategically placed lighting builds on the fireplace's flickering glow. Wall sconces flanking the chimney provide general illumination needed for safe fire maintenance. Ambient candle wall lanterns, flame-shaped bulbs or adjustable spotlights add mood lighting. Opt for smart controls to create lighting schemes adjustable by phone.

Operating and Protecting Porch Fireplaces

Following Manufacturer Guidelines

Review manufacturer instructions before initial operation of any fireplace insert. Wood-burning masonry fireplaces require curing from moisture before lighting. Pre-fabricated gas firebox ignition differs across brands. Provide adequate ventilation for air circulation.

While gel burners allow quick ambient flames, caution kids and pets regarding handling cans. Monitor small children and pets around firesides, no matter the type. Purchase protective screens securing the full perimeter when fireplaces operate.

Conducting Routine Fireplace Maintenance

Maintaining clean chimneys prevent flue fires, especially following yearly inspections. Close the flue between uses to block animal nests. Replace loose mortar or broken masonry components allowing exterior air infiltrating indoors. Repair minor cracks promptly in prefab boxes.

Gel fireplaces require wicking wiper cleaning while gas fireplaces need glass front vacuuming between seasons. Confirm all parts securely connect before restarting the pilot. Store accessories safely over summer months.

Preparing for Off-Season Storage

To prevent infestation and properly protect the fireplace between seasons, ensure all ashes fully extinguish following the final flame. Close the flue and install a cap securing the chimney from animals sheltering over cold months or storms. Cover the fireplace opening with weather-resistant sheathing.

Move stored cushions, rugs, and porch accessories away from the fireplace. Inspect metal surfaces for moisture-induced corrosion or cracks needing refinishing. Address any underlying leaks around the chimney base.

Four Season Benefits

Beyond extending autumn porch enjoyment, fireplaces create year-round living areas. Homeowners relish the glowing ambiance when cocktails or mocktails garnish summer sunsets. Gentle crackling sparks conversation as spring rains patter on the tin roof. Even winter snowstorms become cozy with Irish coffee warming toes toasting by the fire.

Summer Evening Enjoyment

When porch parties last into summer nights, flickering flames make the atmosphere more magical. With cooler temps after sunset, a small blaze takes the chill off while visitors linger. Battery-operated candles add twinkling luminance without heat. Serve s'more kabobs for a sweet summer dessert.

Extended Spring and Fall Usage

By warming breezes in spring and fall, fireplaces expand comfort for months on either side of summer. Families extend their enjoyment of porch living areas free from drafts. Play a game of checkers with hot apple cider, all while watching heat lightning flash.

Adding Winter Ambiance

As snowflakes swirl past porch screens, the fireplace takes the bite from cold toes. Fluffy comforters and wool socks allow immersed reading into the night. Let carols echo while pine garlands adorn the mantel. Snowy views become more magical from the fireside.

Safety Precautions

Screened porches must incorporate fireplace safety, protecting against errant sparks, embers and excessive heat. Consider installing protective screens, selecting fire-resistant rugs and furniture, establishing house rules and preparing fire-suppression equipment.