As I have mentioned in this blog before, the veneer you chose for your outdoor fireplace is what will make your project the most unique. There are so many colors, textures, and materials, that the options are almost limitless. Traditionally, the two most popular are stone and brick. Each veneer has its own particular benefits and drawbacks. Knowing what you are looking for and which veneer best matches your needs is vital in making an educated decision.
Stone:
Benefits:
Having a stone veneer is very popular with individuals looking for a rustic design. Stone veneers require fairly minimal amounts of maintenance, with some people preferring their fireplaces actually grow some moss and lichens. The wide range of shapes, colors, and size of stones allow for truly unique shapes and appearances of fireplaces. As all stones are different, so then will be your fireplace. Each product can be completely unique.
Drawbacks:
There is an extremely wide price range in stone veneers. Whether you are using natural or manufactured stone, rare or common materials, or local or foreign stone, are all factors that have an effect on the overall price of the product. Along with this, the installation is typically more labor intensive than their brick counterparts. As the shapes are typically irregular, it takes more time and expertise to complete the veneer.
Brick:
Benefits:
Brick veneers are fairly easy to install. The regular size and shape of bricks make the stacking very geometrical. Brick veneers can typically be installed by the passionate DIY’er. Along with the ease of install, bricks come in a wide range of textures and colors than cannot be matched by stone. Because of this, it is typically easier to find a brick that exactly matches your design.
Drawbacks:
Brick is very common. For some this is not a drawback. However, for those looking for a completely distinct fireplace, it is much more difficult to achieve uniqueness. Along with this, while they don’t require an extreme amount of work, brick veneers typically require a touch more maintenance than stone.
For more information on veneers or how you can incorporate an outdoor fireplace into your outdoor living area call 888-322-2312 to speak to one of our experienced product specialists. For a Free Download of 2012’s top outdoor living trends, click below.
One of the main selling points for fireplace kits is supposedly their ease in installation. FireRock boasts that all individuals with a basic understanding of masonry or the passionate DIY’er can easily assemble their product. The ability to “do it yourself” allows homeowners to install an indoor or outdoor fireplace without having to pay for a traditional installation. This allows for a much lower overall price as well as a decreased project length.
But is it really that easy? Can everyone, honestly, install this product? The answer is….Yes! While our products are very intuitive, each also comes with a detailed installation guide. These guides walk you through the process step by step ensuring the products are assembled quickly and easily.
Along with the printed guides, there are many videos online (the “FireRock Fireplace” channel on YouTube being an excellent source) where you can see videos of installations or how the pieces fit together. These videos can give you a practical sense of how the product is assembled as well as giving you various design ideas.
It is a common saying around FireRock, that our fireplace kits are similar to “adult Legos.” Not only are they easy to assemble, but can also be a fun and rewarding experience. That being said; self-assembly is not for everyone. Plenty of individuals feel more comfortable hiring a 
professional to install their purchase. The experience and expertise than some installers have allow homeowners, who may not be the most hands on, the peace of mind of knowing exactly what they are going to get.
For more information, installation questions, or recommendations of capable installers, please reach out to us at 888-322-2312. We have experienced product specialists who can answer any questions you might have.
What kind of fireplace are you going to get? For most, the answer would be simple: “The kind that will let me have a fire.” Not that many people actively think about fireplaces, even when they are in the market for one. For this reason, not many people know what the market holds, or even what the differences between different products are. In this post we will explore the differences between pre-engineered and custom built fireplaces. Both types have their benefits and drawbacks, knowing exactly what they each offer you will allow you to better able to make a sound, educated decision.
1. Price
For most people, the price is the biggest deciding factor. While people might not think much about fireplaces, they are always thinking about their finances. Traditionally, custom built fireplaces are significantly more expensive than pre-engineered masonry fireplaces. This is due to the craftsmanship and skill that building a fireplace takes. Pre-masonry fireplaces take the skill out of assembly and production, making it something anyone can do, and thus drastically decreases the installation and production cost.
2. Flexibility
Custom built fireplaces have the benefit of being able to be built for specific projects. Based on the situation, a mason can mold the project to fit your exact specifications. This is typically more expensive and takes much longer to install.
Pre-engineered masonry fireplaces come in all shapes in sizes. While they are typically not built for specific projects, the amount of sizes and shapes provide for a high level of customization and flexibility in construction. Another benefit of pre-engineered fireplaces is
their weight. Pre-engineered fireplaces are significantly lighter than custom builds and can therefore be placed on upper floors without issues more easily.
3. Guarantee
All pre-engineered masonry fireplaces are the same. They are manufactured in a way that ensures that all of our products will perform in the same capacity. This allows FireRock to provide a 20 year guarantee with all of their products. This type of guarantee is very rare for custom builds. Along with the lack of a guarantee, custom builds do not provide a uniform quality. The quality of your fireplace will depend directly on the quality of your mason. This provides an added risk that pre-engineered fireplaces do not pose.
For more information on how pre-engineered masonry fireplaces can provide you with an inexpensive, quality fireplace, or if you have any questions we can answer, please reach out to us at 888-322-2312. We have experienced product specialists who can help you with anything you may need. To receive a free price estimate, click the link below.
Whenever you are making a big purchase it is important to cover all bases. A logical, methodical, approach to buying can ensure that you make the right decision and feel comfortable taking the financial leap. When looking to purchase an outdoor fireplace there are 3 main things that you need to consider. These factors not only affect the look and feel of your fireplace, but also the price point.
1. Size
When choosing which outdoor fireplace is best for you it is important to find the correct size. A fireplace that is too big or too small will most times look out of place or awkward. In order to know what size is best for you it is important for you to analyze your outdoor living area, determine where the fireplace would be and draw out potential measurements. This will ensure that you know exactly what you are getting.
2. Veneer
Choosing the right veneer for your outdoor fireplace is very important. Classically, stone, brick, and stucco are the most common types of veneers. These products all have different design feels and all have different price points. While there are many levels of quality for each of these veneers, it is important to note the large price range that these veneers bring about. Knowing your price range and choosing a veneer that falls within it is key to your overall satisfaction.
3. Installation
Choosing whether you will install it yourself or through a contractor is a huge decision. For many DIY’ers it is a no-brainer. Our product is made so that anyone with a basic understanding of masonry can completely assemble their own purchase. For the majority of us, however, this will not be the case. For those who decide to contract out the installation, price typically is based on the complexity of the build and the time needed for completion.
For more information on FireRock products or to get some advice on any of these decisions call us at 888-322-2312 to speak to one of our experienced product specialists. They can answer any question that you might have pertaining to outdoor living or outdoor fireplaces. If you are interested in a price estimate access to our Price Estimator by clicking the link below!
What makes a fireplace kit special? What is it about this concrete that 
makes it different from any other form of concrete? Why can FireRock's concrete withstand the extreme temperature changes, and reflect heat, in a way that no other concrete can?
These are common questions we receive about our product. It basically comes down to the question…”So why are you so special?” The short answer is, because of our specific components. We have found the specific blend of various rock, and concrete components, that reflect heat unlike any others. Our formula contains four key ingredients, these are:
-Pumice:
FireRock uses a specific type of pumice. This pumice, which is only found in volcanic ash, provides FireRock’s products with a high level of insulation that is unparalleled by any other form of stone.
-Calcium Aluminate Cement:
Calcium aluminate cement is specifically designed to withstand the extreme heat cycles of a fireplace. Consistent flux in temperatures can slowly erode and break down traditional forms of cement. Calcium aluminate cement combined with the other components ensures that FireRock products stay structurally sound for an extremely long period of time.
-Fly Ash:
Fly ash is becoming much more popular in concrete production. Fly ash not only binds the cement closer together, but drastically improves the strength of the concrete. This strength provides FireRock with a compression strength that is unsurpassed by any of its competitors.
-Nylon Fiber:
Much like fly ash, the addition of nylon fiber is used to increase the binding strength of the concrete. By having greater compression strength, fireplaces can have larger, heavier, chimneys without having to worry about maintaining its structural integrity.
For more information on what makes FireRock’s product superior to its competitors reach out to us at 888-322-2312. We have experienced product specialists who can answer any question you may have. For a guide comparing FireRock vs. Isokern click the link below!
For many, pre-engineered masonry fireplaces all seem the same. That could not be further from the truth. While the concept seems rather straight forward, there are several major differences that separate the two main manufacturers, FireRock and Isokern. Knowing these differences, and how they can affect you, will give you the peace of mind of knowing that you bought the absolute best indoor or outdoor fireplace for your home.
To better understand the differences between these products, it is important to know each company’s history:
Isokern has been a leading name in pre-engineered masonry fireplaces for over 70 years. Based in Denmark, Isokern created the modern pre-masonry fireplace and brought its product to the United States in 1989. For years they were the only name in pre-engineered masonry products and did very well.
FireRock, seeing the potential in the market, was the second company to come out with a pre-engineered masonry fireplace in the United States. Based in the US, FireRock has been successful by identifying several of Isokern's flaws and creating a new product that addresses them. By taking Isokern's concept and improving upon it, FireRock has been able to provide its customers a superior product and thus, has seen its market share consistently grow.
FireRock's product has many advantages brought about by these differences, a few of the greatest advantages include:
-Greater Compressive Strength:
FireRock’s products can withstand more than 3,000 pounds per square inch (psi). That is more than three times stronger than comparable Isokern models. This ensures less cracking and a longer life span for fireplaces with larger, heavier, chimneys.
-Lining Free Flue System:
Isokern’s flue system requires a complicated lining process and precise alignment. This complicated process is difficult for most DIY’ers and deterred many from purchasing. FireRock’s products include a patented simple one-piece chimney system that doesn’t require any lining or complicated assembly.
-Curved Radius Lentil:
Typically, larger and more rounded chimneys provide a smoother smoke flow. Isokern’s fireplaces have a square corner at the top of the opening that can create smoke turbulence and unwanted smoke spillage. FireRock fireplaces have a 10% larger flue opening as well as a curved opening which allows smoke to naturally curl into the chimney.
For more information on the differences between FireRock and Isokern check out our free download below. If you have any questions, or wish to find a dealer near you, do not hesitate to call us at 888-322-2312. We have experienced product specialists who can answer any questions you may have.
A lot of people are confused about the difference between masonry and metal chimneys. While both types of chimneys are offered by FireRock, and can be used for almost any kind of fireplace, there are a few differences which are important 
to note. Based upon on your needs, knowing these differences can be invaluable for your decision making process.
1. Flexibility
Depending on your home design, and where you wish to place your fireplace, there might be an off-set between the fireplace and chimney. An off-set means that if the chimney cannot go straight up due to some obstruction, and will have to go around. Typically, metal chimneys are much more flexible than their masonry counterpart. Masonry chimneys can function with a slight off-set, however, if an off-set is severe, a metal chimney will be required. This is in order to guarantee the safety and functionality of the fireplace for years to come.
2. Performance
Masonry products typically ensure higher heat reflection than their competitors. The higher the heat reflection a fireplace has, the better the heat circulation becomes. This increased heat circulation not only helps warm the area around the fireplace better, but 
also increases the smoke removal capabilities of the chimney. Typically, this higher level of performance cannot be matched by most metal chimneys.
3. Weight
Masonry products are significantly heavier than metal products. Therefore, there are some restrictions on where masonry chimneys can be placed. Due to the excessive weight of masonry chimneys, we do not recommend they be placed on fireplaces located on the 2nd floor or above.
It is important to get exactly what you need when purchasing an indoor or outdoor fireplace. If you have any other questions or would like to receive a free price estimate please reach out to one of our experienced Product Specialists at (888) 322-2312 or click the link below.
It is important, before making any decision, to educate oneself on all possible choices. Choosing the right fireplace is no different. While most people are familiar with metal fireplaces and their benefits, a lot of people are unsure what pre-engineered masonry fireplaces are and what it is 
they offer. While there are many differences, for the sake of this post we will focus on the 3 main differences.
1. Life Expectancy
The life expectancy of metal fireplaces is much shorter than masonry fireplaces. The annual wear and tear that fire can cause is much more substantial on metal fireplaces. Because of this, they are much more likely to need replacement than their masonry counterparts. For example, a FireRock masonry fireplace come with a 20 year warranty as well as a 100 year expected lifespan.
2. Heat Reflection
It is commonplace that most metal fireplaces require some sort of fan either for heat circulation or smoke removal. Conversely, masonry fireplaces with their tilted backs as well as their engineering allow for maximum heat reflection and smoke removal without the hassle of fan installation.
3. Cost
Prefabricated metal fireplaces hold the advantage in price. Metal fireplaces are the cheapest form of fireplace currently on the market. Pre-engineered masonry fireplaces, while significantly less expensive than traditional brick and mortar fireplaces, are traditionally more expensive. However, while being more expensive initially, masonry fireplaces typically add more value to a home and require less annual maintenance than their metal equivalents.
FireRock is the largest US based pre-masonry fireplace manufacturer. If you are interested in learning more about pre-engineered masonry fireplaces or additional benefits they may have please contact us at (888) 822-2312. For pricing information or to find a local distributor please click the link below.
Each year a survey is completed by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). In this survey ASLA polls landscape architects, with a specialization in residential design, from across the country and asks them: “In the next year, what outdoor trends will be popular?” The architects then rank from Very Popular to Very Unpopular on a wide range of categories.
Being an organization that works in outdoor design, more specifically, outdoor fireplaces and fire pits, this survey is especially interesting to us. By focusing on the outdoor living features that are trending, we are able to focus our products to best serve our customers. Needless to say, we were very pleased, and somewhat unsurprised by this year’s finding.
Of all the architects, 95.8% considered fire pits/fireplaces in the range of “very popular” to “somewhat popular.” Only the backyard stalwarts of grills and dining areas ranked higher. To look at the full report click here.
This report validates what we have believed all along. More and more people are looking for a comfortable, relaxing backyard, where they can unwind and embrace nature. Having an outdoor fireplace or fire pit ensures that this level of comfort and relaxation can be had year round, regardless of temperature.
If starting your own personal outdoor living area, or expanding what you already have, is something that you are interested in learning more about, reach out to us at 888-322-2312. We have experienced product specialists who can answer any question you may have ranging from design to installation. For more information on outdoor living trends download our Free Guide by clicking below.
The wood that one chooses to burn in their outdoor fireplace is very important. Different types of wood produce different levels of smoke, creosote, and even heat. Knowing what kind of wood best fits your needs allows you to have the perfect fire year round as well as the ability to plan maintenance in advance.
The majority of us choose wood solely based upon price. Whichever is cheapest is what we will buy (we are, of course, just burning it). However, different geographic areas have varying abundances, and therefore price points, of various types of wood. That being said, what is most practical and cheap for others might not be the most practical for you. On average, the following types of wood are approximately the same, low, cost.
Ash:
Typically a high heat producing wood, Ash wood provides low smoke and spark production as well as a slight pleasing aroma.
Pine:
Typically a low heat producing wood, Pine wood provides medium smoke and high spark production as well as a strong pleasing aroma. It is key to note that Pine wood typically produces more creosote than other woods and therefore requires a chimney sweep more often.
Maple:
Typically a high heat producing wood, Maple wood provides low smoke and spark production as well as a strong pleasing aroma.
Oak:
Typically a very high heat producing wood, Oak wood provides low smoke and spark production as well as a strong pleasing aroma.
Elm:
Typically a medium heat producing wood, Elm wood provides medium smoke and low spark production as well as a slight pleasing aroma.
Based on your needs, knowing which wood is best for you can be very beneficial. Aromatic smoke can be great for adding flavor through your outdoor oven, high heat production can be great for cold nights, low heat production for warm nights, and low spark production is great for outdoor fire pits.
For more information on FireRock products and how we can factor in to your outdoor living area please reach out to one of our Product Specialists at 888-322-2312. If you are interested in receiving a free price estimate or finding a local dealer please follow the link below.