If you’re wanting to improve your outdoor space, there are dozens of different ways you can achieve your dream entertaining area. We believe that one of the best ways you can create a memorable retreat is with an outdoor fireplace. But which cladding should you choose?
With so many options, figuring out which cladding material for your outdoor fireplace is best for you can be a challenge. To help you decide, this article explores the range of cladding types and the typical cost of each.
The base cost of an outdoor fireplace
If you’re looking for cladding, you first need to decide which type of fireplace you want. The most common options are steel or concrete.
Steel fireplaces
A lot of steel fireplaces come as a complete unit, with no need for additional cladding. However, these prebuilt models don’t last well when exposed to the elements and can end up costing a lot in maintenance.
Key takeaways:
- Lower upfront cost
- Expensive maintenance
- Simple installation
- Rapid deterioration
- Poor heat retention
The upfront cost of a basic steel outdoor fireplace starts around $400 but remember to factor in ongoing maintenance costs too. To make the fireplace last longer, you may need to invest in a custom cover to protect it from the weather when it is not being used. If you’re looking for a long-term solution, look for more robust cladding instead.
Concrete fireplaces
If you want an affordable, durable, and low-maintenance outdoor fireplace, you can’t go wrong with a concrete fireplace. At Trendz Outdoors, all our fireplaces consist of a steel firebox encased in a precast concrete shell. What’s more, our concrete formulation is engineered to eliminate structural cracking.
Key takeaways:
- Higher upfront cost
- Solid and long-lasting
- Minimal maintenance is required
- Excellent heat retention
- Efficient installation
The cost of a concrete outdoor fireplace starts from $6,000 but that typically includes a steel firebox and flue. Unless you decide to add a custom finish as well, these units can be supplied pre-plastered and pre-painted so they are ready to use as soon as they are installed.
Outdoor fireplace cladding types
Now that you know which basic fireplace you want, you can decide which material you want to clad it with. Cladding should be heat-resistant and long-lasting so you can enjoy your fire for many years to come.
Bare concrete
If you want a low-cost option, you can simply leave the concrete exposed but sealed. This is a durable finish and since the concrete is part of the base cost of your fireplace, you won’t need to budget for additional cladding, only the process of sealing the concrete for ongoing protection.
As all Trendz fireplaces come one piece out of a mould, we do expect to see imperfections and minor chipping on the concrete structure which is why we have plastering/cladding as part of the installation process to cover any of this. For an elevated yet subtle concrete look, ask us about the precast wood-grain texture on our Twin Peak and Single Peak fires.
Polished concrete hearth
One option with concrete, or any fireplace finish, is to have a polished concrete hearth at the base of the firebox. This creates a smooth, luxurious finish that is easy to clean while also providing a stunning design feature. The additional cost for a polished concrete hearth starts from $1,895.
Plaster and paint
For a simple finish, plaster and paint is a relatively affordable and attractive option. You can choose from a set selection of colours to match your existing landscaping design — or create a bold focal point. It is recommended that you clean the exterior of your fireplace regularly and check for any cracks. Hairline cracks are normal with the changes in temperature but they’re not structural and can generally be covered with paint.
Key takeaways:
- Requires some maintenance
- Efficient installation
- Relatively affordable
- A wide variety of colours to choose from
- Can be delivered pre-finished
If you choose a Burton or Mini Burton from the Trendz range, we will do the plaster and paint finish for you in our factory. That way, your fireplace is delivered as a finished product. For other fireplace models, you will need to reach out to your local plasterer and painter for an accurate quote.
The cost of plaster and paint finishes typically starts from around $1,800. For example, our Mini Burton costs $5,995 for the basic concrete structure, steel flue, steel firebox, and steel surround. Including a plaster and paint finish costs an additional $1,895.
Masonry
For the ultimate combination of style and functionality, masonry is an unequalled cladding choice. Whether you prefer natural stone or brick, this cladding is sure to be a talking point with your guests.
Key takeaways:
- Minimal maintenance is required
- Efficient installation
- Higher installation costs
- A wide variety to choose from
- Offers a luxurious aesthetic
- Compatible with your existing landscaping
As Trendz does not offer this cladding directly, the prices vary more based on your access to local specialists and the type of finish you like. The cost of masonry cladding can start from $3,000 but we recommend reaching out to your local providers for an accurate quote.
Riverstone fireplace cladding
With years of being washed down New Zealand rivers, riverstone is known for its smooth, rounded look. It is a popular choice for landscaping and exterior design, including letterboxes, fences, and retaining walls. There’s a wide variety of colours and sizes available making it easy to blend with your existing outdoor area.
The cost of riverstone cladding starts from $2,000 but for an accurate quote, reach out to your local contractor and supplier.
Brick fireplace cladding
Brick has been used for fireplaces since the 12th century and is renowned for its excellent heat resistance and durability. Brick can endure the harsh New Zealand weather, is low maintenance, and if you’re near the ocean, it can even withstand the salty sea air.
Installation of brick cladding can be labour-intensive but for a small project like a fireplace, the cost will typically start from around $1,800.
Schist cladding
Schist is a hard, fairly angular rock formed below the earth’s surface. Due to the high temperatures and pressures, large crystals are formed in the stone, which gives schist its subtle shine. Schist is sourced from various places around the South Island in a wide range of colours, including greys, browns, golds, and even a hint of red. It is popular throughout New Zealand landscaping design, particularly for exterior cladding, retaining walls, and paving.
The cost of schist cladding for an outdoor fireplace starts from $6,000 but will vary depending on the type of schist, your location, and the amount needed. Ask your local contractor for a more personalised quote.
Full prices for outdoor fireplaces
The total price of an outdoor fire depends on several factors, including the base price of the firebox unit, foundations, type of cladding, transport, and installation. Usually, they’ll range anywhere from $7,000 to $50,000.
- The base cost of Trendz fireplaces – $5,995 to $45,000
- Foundations – $200 to $1,500
- Cladding – $500 to $6,000
- Hiab hire – $180 per hour
While cheaper models are a viable short-term solution, premium fireplaces are the ultimate investment. They add value to your property, last for decades, and add a spectacular focal point to your outdoor space.
For more advice on your outdoor fireplace design and cladding options, check out our full price breakdown here or speak to the friendly team at Trendz Outdoors.
Have a question? Contact us