The Benefits of Installing an Outdoor Fireplace in Your Backyard (2026 Guide)
Does your backyard feel like a "summer-only" zone? It doesn't have to be. By installing an outdoor fireplace, you can transform your patio into a four-season retreat that rivals the comfort of your living room.
In 2026, the trend of "outdoor living" has moved beyond simple deck chairs and a barbecue. Homeowners in London and St. Thomas are increasingly looking to create fully functional outdoor sanctuaries—spaces where they can unwind after a long week, entertain friends, and reconnect with nature without leaving their property.
At My Fireplace, we believe your backyard should be an extension of your home. Whether you crave the crackle of a wood fire or the instant convenience of gas, adding a fireplace is one of the smartest upgrades you can make. Here is a deep dive into the top five benefits of outdoor fireplaces, featuring some of the most stunning models available today.
Key Points Summary
Health Benefits: Fireplaces induce relaxation and lower blood pressure (the "fireplace effect").
Season Extension: Radiant heaters like the Kozy Heat Callaway let you use your patio from early spring to late fall.
Entertaining: Linear models like the Regency HZO60 act as social anchors for parties.
Home Value: Outdoor living upgrades can boost property value by ~10%.
Durability: Materials like Corten steel (found in Jotul and Rais models) are weather-proof and require low maintenance.
1. Create a Cozy Ambiance (The Science of Relaxation)
There is a reason humans have gathered around fires for thousands of years. It’s not just about warmth; it’s about biology. Studies have shown that watching a fire can actually lower your blood pressure and reduce cortisol levels, inducing a natural state of relaxation known as the "fireplace effect".
An outdoor fireplace adds an immediate focal point to your yard, grounding the space and creating a natural gathering spot.
For Intimate Gatherings: Consider the Regency Plateau PTO30. This gas firetable doubles as a coffee table, making it the perfect centerpiece for a circle of comfortable chairs. Its 50,000 BTU burner provides enough warmth to take the chill off a cool evening while you enjoy a glass of wine.
For Traditional Elegance: If you prefer the look of a traditional masonry fireplace without the heavy construction cost, the Heat & Glo Courtyard is a stunning choice. Available in 36" or 42" widths with interior brick options, it brings the "living room feel" outdoors, creating a sophisticated backdrop for quiet evenings or lively parties.
A modern outdoor fire table creates warmth and ambiance beside a pool and patio seating area.
2. Extend Your Outdoor Living Season
In Southwestern Ontario, our summers are beautiful but short. Typically, homeowners pack up their patio furniture in late September. With an outdoor fireplace, you can keep the party going well into November—and even bring it back out for a mild Christmas Eve.
Radiant heat technology allows you to enjoy fresh air even when the temperature dips.
The Modern Heater: The Kozy Heat Callaway 50 is designed for serious heat distribution. It even offers an optional kit to safely mount a TV above it, allowing you to watch the game outside while staying toasty.
The Art Piece: For a fusion of sculpture and heat, look at the . Made from durable Corten steel, it not only radiates heat efficiently but also serves as a striking art piece that weathers to a beautiful rustic patina over time.
Need help planning your space? Our Services Team can help you choose the right location and fuel type for your backyard.
A contemporary outdoor lounge featuring a linear gas fireplace set into a brick wall with modern patio seating.
3. Ideal for Entertaining Guests
A fire is a natural social magnet. When you light an outdoor fireplace during a party, guests inevitably gravitate toward it. It breaks the ice, encourages conversation, and keeps people comfortable long after the sun goes down.
The Crowd Pleaser: The Regency Horizon HZO60 is a massive 60-inch linear gas fireplace that makes a bold statement. Available in single-sided or see-through configurations, it is perfect for dividing a patio into dining and lounging zones while allowing guests on both sides to enjoy the view.
The Rustic Gathering: If your style is more "campout" than "cocktail party," the Jotul Terrazza is ideal. This wood-burning outdoor stove offers a 360-degree view of the fire through its open sides, mimicking the feel of a campfire but with a contained, safe, and stylish structure.
A modern freestanding outdoor fireplace adds warmth to a patio with a scenic ocean view.
4. Increase Your Home’s Value (ROI)
Outdoor living spaces are top of the list for homebuyers in 2026. According to real estate experts, well-designed outdoor structures (like patios with fireplaces) can increase a property's value by up to 10%. It signals to buyers that the home has "bonus" square footage.
To maximize this Return on Investment (ROI), choose a model that looks permanent and high-end.
The Grand Statement: The Heat & Glo Castlewood is a wood-burning beast with a 38-inch high opening and no glass, giving you the authentic roar and crackle of a massive masonry hearth. It transforms a simple patio into a luxury estate feature.
The Culinary Feature: The Rais Circle is a circular fire bowl made of thick Corten steel with a heavy grill grate. It doubles as a high-end wood-fired BBQ, adding functional culinary value that foodie buyers love.
A contemporary outdoor fire bowl creates warmth and ambiance on a garden deck with relaxed seating.
5. Low Maintenance and Long-Lasting Durability
One major concern homeowners have is weather damage. Will my fireplace rust? Do I need to cover it?Quality outdoor fireplaces sold at My Fireplace are built specifically to withstand Canadian winters.
The Weatherproof Warrior: The Jotul Loke is built from Corten steel, a material used in bridges and outdoor art because it forms a protective layer of rust that actually prevents corrosion. It can be left out in rain, snow, and ice for years without degrading, requiring virtually zero maintenance.
Whether you choose gas (which requires no ash cleanup) or wood (for that authentic smell), buying a dedicated outdoor unit ensures safety and longevity that a cheap hardware store fire pit simply cannot match.
A sculptural outdoor fireplace adds warmth and ambiance to a waterfront patio setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for an outdoor fireplace in London, Ontario? Generally, gas fireplaces that are ULC/CSA approved and installed by a licensed technician (like ours) are permitted. Wood-burning units often have stricter clearance rules regarding fences and neighbours. We recommend checking the latest municipal bylaws or speaking with our team for guidance.
Can I leave my outdoor gas fireplace out all winter? Yes. Units like the Regency PTO30 and Heat & Glo Courtyard are built with weather-resistant materials (stainless steel, aluminum, Corten steel). However, we recommend using a protective cover when the unit is not in use to keep debris, snow, and leaves out of the burner area.
Which is better: Gas or Wood for an outdoor fireplace? It depends on your goal. Gas offers instant on/off convenience and no smoke/ash, making it perfect for city lots. Wood provides higher heat output and a traditional crackling atmosphere but requires wood storage and ash cleanup.
Ready to Add an Outdoor Fireplace to Your Home?
An outdoor fireplace is more than just a heater; it is an investment in your lifestyle. It offers warmth, charm, and a central gathering point that pulls your family away from screens and into the fresh air.
From the sleek, modern lines of the Regency HZO60 to the rustic charm of the Jotul Terrazza, we have a style to match every backyard in London and St. Thomas.
The Benefits of Installing an Outdoor Fireplace in Your Backyard
An outdoor fireplace can elevate your backyard, turning it into a cozy retreat for any season. At My Fireplace, we offer a variety of outdoor fireplaces that can enhance your outdoor living space. Here’s why adding an outdoor fireplace is a great idea
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