A custom-built vertical fireplace with a real firebox and chimney — the architectural centerpiece of a patio, porch, or outdoor living room.
An outdoor fireplace is a vertical, permanent fire structure built with a firebox and chimney, similar in construction to an indoor fireplace but built to withstand year-round outdoor exposure.
Unlike a firepit, which is ground-level or built at seating height with no chimney, an outdoor fireplace is a taller, more architecturally significant structure — often the visual anchor of a patio, covered porch, or outdoor living room. Trust GC Concrete & Designs to build your custom outdoor fireplaces serving Greenville and the Upstate area.
Outdoor fireplace vs. firepit: which fits your space?
An outdoor fireplace is a vertical structure with a firebox and chimney, typically 7–10+ feet tall, built into or against a patio, porch, or outdoor wall. It reads as a permanent architectural feature and often anchors the whole design of an outdoor living space.
A firepit (see our Firepit Builder page) is a ground-level or seating-height fire feature, generally more affordable and flexible in placement, without a chimney.
Fireplaces tend to fit best against an existing wall, under a covered porch, or as a standalone freestanding structure at the edge of a patio; firepits tend to fit best as a central gathering point in an open patio. We’ll help you figure out which — or whether both — makes sense for your space.
Wood-burning vs. gas outdoor fireplaces
Wood-burning — The traditional choice, offering a real fire and authentic outdoor fireplace experience; requires wood storage and more hands-on maintenance.
Gas — Push-button convenience with no ash or wood storage, and more consistent flame control — a popular choice for fireplaces used frequently or located close to seating.
We can build either, and will walk you through the tradeoffs — including gas line requirements if you go that route — during your design consultation.
Our outdoor fireplace construction process
- Design consultation — We talk through placement, fuel type, and how the fireplace fits into your broader outdoor living space.
- Site evaluation and permitting — We confirm placement, setback, and whether engineering review or a permit is needed for your specific structure.
- Footing and foundation — A proper footing is built to support the fireplace’s full height and weight.
- Structural build — The firebox and chimney structure is built, with gas line connection if applicable.
- Finish — Your chosen finish — stone veneer, brick, stucco, or manufactured stone — is applied, along with any mantel or built-in seating.
- Final walkthrough — We review the finished fireplace with you, including safe use and maintenance guidance.
Materials and design options
Natural stone veneer — A classic, substantial look, often the most popular finish for outdoor fireplaces.
Brick — A traditional finish that can match your home’s existing exterior.
Stucco — A smoother, more contemporary finish, often paired with clean architectural lines.
Cultured/manufactured stone — A cost-effective alternative to natural stone with a similar look.
Design elements can include a mantel, a raised hearth, built-in wood storage, and flanking seat walls or built-in seating — all customized to fit the scale of your space.
Why Homeowners Trust GC Concrete & Designs
- 25 years of experience serving Greenville and the Upstate
- Licensed and insured in South Carolina
- Free Estimates with no obligation
- Family-owned, hands-on ownership with no obligation
- Se habla español
Outdoor fireplace FAQs
How much does an outdoor fireplace cost in Greenville, SC?
Cost depends on height, finish material, and fuel type — stucco is generally more affordable than natural stone veneer, and gas fireplaces cost more upfront than wood-burning due to the gas line work. We provide a free on-site estimate for your specific project.
What's the difference between an outdoor fireplace and a firepit?
An outdoor fireplace is a taller, vertical structure with a firebox and chimney, typically built against a wall or as a standalone architectural feature. A firepit is ground-level or seating-height with no chimney, generally more affordable and flexible in placement. We build both and can help you decide which fits your space.
Do outdoor fireplaces need a permit?
Often yes, more so than firepits, since outdoor fireplaces are taller, heavier structures that may require engineering review depending on height and local code. We handle permitting as part of the project and confirm exactly what’s needed for your build.
Can an outdoor fireplace be built on an existing patio?
In many cases, yes, if the existing patio can support the added footing and structural weight, or if we build a dedicated footing alongside it. We’ll evaluate your existing space during the estimate.
How tall is a typical outdoor fireplace?
Outdoor fireplaces are commonly built in the 7–10 foot range including the chimney, though the right height depends on your space, sightlines, and local code for chimney clearance.
Gas or wood-burning: which should I choose for an outdoor fireplace?
Gas offers push-button convenience with no ash or wood storage and more consistent flame control. Wood-burning offers a more traditional, authentic fireplace experience but requires more hands-on maintenance and wood storage. We’ll walk through the tradeoffs for your specific use case.
Ready to transform your outdoor space with a custom fireplace?
Call for a free estimate and guidance on design, materials, and what your project will need for permitting.
