Houston Outdoor Fireplaces

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Licensed & Insured Outdoor Fireplace in West University Place, TX

For 15+ years, Houston Outdoor Fireplaces has designed and built safe, beautiful fire features that elevate West U backyards. We’re local, fully insured, and code-savvy - handling permits, gas lines, and inspections so your project is hassle-free and built to last.

From modern linear gas units to timeless masonry with chimney, we solve common challenges like smoke drift, tight lot setbacks, and Houston humidity. Searching for “Outdoor Fireplace West University Place TX”? You’re in the right place. Let’s create a cozy, year‑round gathering spot that boosts curb appeal and value. Call us today for a free estimate.

Outdoor Fireplace Design & Installation in West University Place, TX

We design, permit, and build premium outdoor fireplaces tailored to West U homes and lifestyles. Every project follows 2021 IRC/IFGC/IFC, NFPA 211, and city inspection requirements for safety and longevity.

Custom Outdoor Fireplace Construction

Want a one-of-a-kind centerpiece that fits your architecture and tight Inside-the-Loop footprint? We build with a CMU block core over a poured concrete footing with rebar, line the firebox in firebrick using refractory mortar (ASTM C199), and finish in brick, ledgestone, cast-stone, or stucco. Our team uses laser levels, wet saws, and proper weeps/back-venting for veneers to prevent moisture issues. Benefit from smoke management planning, chimney caps with spark arrestors, and precise clearances to combustibles. Learn more about our Custom Outdoor Fireplace Construction services.

Outdoor Gas Fireplace Installation

Prefer instant ambiance with clean-burning performance? We install traditional and linear gas units with NG or propane, complete gas line trenching and hookup, and coordinate pressure testing and inspections. A TSBPE-licensed plumber sets key valve placement and performs manometer testing per IFGC and NFPA 54. Options include direct-vent appliances for covered patios, remote ignition, and fire glass or log sets. We also add heat deflectors when placing a TV above the opening. Learn more about our Outdoor Gas Fireplace Installation services.

Outdoor Wood-Burning Fireplace Construction

For classic crackle and warmth, we build masonry outdoor fireplaces with properly sized flues, smoke chamber parging, and draft-enhancing geometry. We address Houston winds with wind baffles or taller stacks (2-10-3 rule where applicable) and recommend stainless chimney caps with spark arrestors. Materials include clay or stainless flue liners and heat-resistant coatings. We plan safe setbacks and integrate seating walls or hearth benches for entertaining. Learn more about our Outdoor Wood-Burning Fireplace Construction services.

Fire Pit Installation

A fire pit is a versatile, budget-friendly option for small courtyards and narrow lots common in West University Place. We build custom gas or wood-burning fire pits with durable burners (H-burner, linear, or pan), lava rock or tempered fire glass, and code-compliant key valves and ignition. Our crews handle slab work, drainage, and wind considerations so flames stay consistent. Choose finishes that match your patio - stone, brick, or stucco - for a cohesive look. Learn more about our Fire Pit Installation services.

Outdoor Kitchen & Fireplace Combination Construction

Create a true outdoor living room with a fireplace integrated into your kitchen island or pergola. We coordinate electrical (NEC 2020 GFCI) for lighting and ignition, hide utilities cleanly, and use corrosion-resistant fasteners suited for Houston’s climate. Add TV niches with heat deflectors, seating walls, and task lighting. We provide 3D design renderings to finalize layout, workflow, and views from the house. Learn more about our Outdoor Kitchen & Fireplace Combination Construction services.

Other Services We Offer

Why Choose Us for Outdoor Fireplaces in West University Place, TX

At Houston Outdoor Fireplaces, our NFI-trained team has built thousands of fireplaces and fire pits across Greater Houston. We manage design, permits, gas and electrical, construction, and inspections end to end - so you get a safe, stunning result without the stress. If you’re searching for “Outdoor Fireplace West University Place TX,” trust a local, insured builder that backs every project with code compliance and craftsmanship.

Proven Hearth Expertise & Industry Credentials

Our specialists hold NFI Gas and Woodburning credentials and follow NFPA 211 for fireplace and chimney best practices. We consult with CSIA-certified partners for chimney specifics when needed, and we’re active with HPBA and the Greater Houston Builders Association, staying current on products and code updates that impact West U homes.

Beyond badges, we bring hard-won experience integrating fireplaces with outdoor kitchens, TVs, and pergolas. We design for Houston’s climate, select salt-safe mortars and corrosion-resistant fasteners, and specify wind-rated chimney caps that stand up to Gulf Coast storms.

Permits, Codes, and West U Inspections - Handled for You

We coordinate City of West University Place building permits, plumbing permits for gas (using a TSBPE-licensed plumber), and electrical permits as needed (NEC 2020). Our gas line installations include manometer pressure testing and documented inspection steps per the 2021 IFGC and NFPA 54. If your project is under a patio cover, we verify appliance listings, clearances to combustibles, and required ventilation with the Fire Marshal when applicable.

You’ll receive a clear schedule for rough-in and final inspections, plus submittals for appliance manuals, venting diagrams, and site plans. Our process reduces callbacks and accelerates approvals in 77005.

Materials, Engineering, and the Right Tools

We use CMU block-and-veneer construction on reinforced footings, firebrick and refractory mortar in the firebox, and clay or stainless flue liners sized for proper draft. Finishes range from brick and ledgestone to cast-stone surrounds. We optimize smoke control with low-smoke firebox geometry, wind baffles, and correct chimney height.

On site, our crews rely on laser levels, diamond wet saws, and rotary hammers for precision, plus combustible gas leak detectors and pressure test gauges for safety. We tune heat deflectors with IR thermometers when a TV niche is planned above the opening.

Local Design Insight for Tight Lots and Wind

West U’s narrow setbacks and courtyard layouts demand thoughtful layouts. We model furniture clearances, sightlines from kitchen and family rooms, and smoke drift based on typical wind patterns. Our designs often include seating walls and hearth benches to maximize usable space without crowding.

For humid conditions, we specify breathable waterproofing and proper back-venting for stone veneer, reducing efflorescence. We also plan drainage and slab slope so water moves away from the fire feature and adjacent structures.

Clear Process, Warranties, and Service Plans

Expect a streamlined build: design and selections (3–5 days), permitting (varies by city queue), and on-site construction (7–14 working days for most builds; complex masonry may be longer). We communicate daily progress and keep your property tidy with defined staging areas and dust control.

After completion, we provide lighting and operating tutorials, maintenance tips, and optional annual service prior to the holiday season. Our workmanship warranty and available tune-ups keep your fireplace performing beautifully year after year.

Outdoor Fireplace Service Across Greater Houston

Houston Outdoor Fireplaces proudly serves residential and commercial clients throughout Greater Houston. If you’re within about 30 miles of Houston, we’ve likely completed a fireplace or fire pit in your neighborhood. Our local crews know the codes, soil, and weather - and we respond fast.

Serving All Neighborhoods in West University Place

We build in every corner of West U and nearby enclaves - Rice Village, Southside Place, Southgate, Southampton Place, Boulevard Oaks, the Museum District, Upper Kirby/Greenway, and Braeswood Place. Common project ZIPs include 77005, 77030, 77098, 77027, and 77401.

Whether you want a modern linear unit near the patio or a traditional masonry chimney by the pool, we understand local preferences, HOA considerations, and the challenges of wind, humidity, and small lots. When you need an outdoor fireplace in West University Place, we’re your local, code-savvy team.

Other locations we serve near West University Place

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a permit for an outdoor fireplace in West University Place?

Yes. West U typically requires a building permit for masonry or built-in fireplaces and a plumbing permit for any gas work. We prepare plans, appliance cut sheets, and site diagrams, then coordinate inspections under the 2021 IRC/IFGC/IFC and NFPA 211. A TSBPE-licensed plumber performs the gas pressure test with a manometer, and we schedule rough and final inspections with the City and Fire Marshal when applicable.

How much does it cost to build an outdoor fireplace in 77005?

Costs vary by size, finish, and fuel type. As a general guide in the Houston/77005 area: custom masonry wood-burning fireplaces often range $18,000–$45,000; direct‑vent or traditional gas units typically range $8,500–$22,000; linear gas features can run $12,000–$30,000. Custom fire pits usually fall between $2,800–$8,500. We provide firm pricing after a site visit and 3D design, including permit and inspection fees.

How far should an outdoor fireplace be from the house and property line?

Clearances depend on the appliance listing and local zoning. We design for safe setbacks from combustibles, verify property line requirements, and follow manufacturer instructions and 2021 IRC/IFC guidance. For wood-burning masonry, we plan generous distances and proper chimney height for draft. Under covered structures, only listed units with required separations and non-combustible stops are used. We confirm specifics with West U during permitting.

Can you put an outdoor fireplace under a covered patio?

Yes - if the unit is listed for use under a cover and clearances/venting are met. We commonly install direct‑vent appliances under patio covers, add non‑combustible finishes, and maintain required openings for airflow. We also integrate heat shields and deflectors if a TV is planned above. Our team submits the appliance manual and layout to West U so inspectors can verify listing and clearances.

What’s the difference between vent-free and direct-vent outdoors?

Direct‑vent fireplaces draw combustion air from outdoors and exhaust through a sealed vent, making them ideal under covers or near seating. Vent‑free models exhaust to the space and must be specifically listed for outdoor use, with minimum open-air requirements. In Houston’s humidity and wind, we often recommend direct‑vent for predictable performance. We’ll evaluate your site and code requirements before recommending an option.

Who can run the gas line for an outdoor fireplace in Texas?

Gas piping must be installed and pressure-tested by a Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) licensed plumber. On our projects, the licensed plumber handles the pressure test, shutoff/key valve placement, and city inspections. We coordinate trenching, CSST/black iron piping, and appliance hookup to meet IFGC and NFPA 54 standards for West University Place inspections.

Do burn bans affect outdoor fireplaces in Harris County/West U?

Burn bans target open burning. Gas fireplaces are typically allowed during bans, while wood-burning may be restricted depending on conditions and local orders. We recommend checking current Harris County and West U guidance before lighting a wood fire. Our gas systems offer reliable alternatives with consistent heat and no flying embers, especially when paired with a spark arrestor.

What size chimney or flue does an outdoor fireplace need?

Flue sizing depends on the firebox opening and chimney height. For masonry wood-burning units, NFPA 211 provides ratios (for example, round flues often start near 1/10 of the firebox opening area, adjusted for height and offsets). We calculate sizing, parge the smoke chamber for smooth flow, and tune chimney height to manage wind common in West U backyards.

Can I convert a wood-burning outdoor fireplace to gas?

Often, yes. We install a listed burner (traditional or linear), add a key valve and accessible shutoff, run a code-compliant gas line, and perform a city pressure test. You can choose fire glass, lava rock, or gas logs. Clearances and appliance listings still apply. We’ll assess your chimney, ventilation, and structure before providing a fixed-price proposal and permit plan.