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What is a fireplace firebox?

What is a fireplace firebox?

What is a fireplace firebox?
10:59

There isn’t much that rivals the allure of a crackling fire when creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your outdoor living area. Outdoor entertaining is defined by warm evenings that create long-lasting memories, but the choice of how to deliver that unbeatable ambience can be fraught with more choices than answers. 

One of the most significant of those will be the design of your fireplace, as you need it to match your exterior aesthetic and the vibe you’re looking to create in your entertaining space. For many designs, perfection can be achieved by using a pre-designed fireplace, like the entire Trendz outdoor fireplace range. For others, only a customised solution will work, and to achieve this a firebox needs to be built into a custom structure.

If you’re looking to learn more about creating a custom fireplace feature utilising a professionally-engineered firebox, then you’re in the right place. Let's delve into what a fireplace firebox is, exploring its unique features and benefits, how one compares to a precast outdoor fireplace, and what might be right for your outdoor entertaining area. 

A  fireplace firebox

A firebox is a compartment within the fireplace surround designed to contain the fire. Constructed from fire-resistant materials, like refractory concrete or steel, it can endure high temperatures and prevent flames from spreading to the surrounding area.

Because the firebox does most of the work in containing and directing the fire, it’s the most important element for heat distribution and smoke transfer. It also protects the encasing material from getting too hot.

Material composition 

Fireboxes can be crafted from fire-resistant materials like refractory concrete or steel. At Trendz, we use 6mm black steel for our fireboxes, ensuring maximum durability and a sleek, aesthetic appeal.

Construction

A steel firebox comes pre-constructed with set dimensions, making installation quick and easy as it simply slots in and requires securing. However, because of its fixed size, the fireplace must be built around the metal firebox or lowered down the chimney cavity after construction is completed

Temperature tolerance 

Depending on the material, steel fireboxes can offer a high heat resistance, and at Trendz, our steel fireboxes are engineered to endure extreme heat for many years. Their durability ensures consistent temperature tolerance as the robust steel is less likely to puncture and cause heat loss. While a steel firebox, like any fireplace, will require maintenance, it generally does not need replacements.

Customisation 

The firebox primarily serves a functional role, while the fire surround is where you can focus on aesthetic customisation. As the firebox is the internal chamber of the fireplace, design customisation for the firebox itself is usually limited. 

For example, with a Trendz firebox, you can choose from a standard black steel or you can upgrade to a stainless-steel finished off in satin black. Additionally, you can customise your experience with a range of cooking accessories that can transform your fireplace into a wood-fired BBQ.

The core components of every fireplace are the firebox and the chimney. With both expertly engineered by the team at Trendz, you can give your design professional the freedom to select the design and composition of the fireplace surround without worrying about the performance of the fire itself.

Trendz Outdoors l Free Download Firebox Brochure

Download our firebox brochure

T1200 and T1600 firebox options

The firebox’s specially designed baffles promise to radiate and increase heat output towards the entertaining area. Combine this with the unique cooking capabilities of a Trendz firebox, these form the perfect foundation for any indoor or outdoor application. Meticulously crafted from high-quality materials, they ensure durability and longevity even in New Zealand's diverse climate.

T1200 Firebox

This compact and versatile firebox is the perfect solution for smaller outdoor spaces. Its sleek, modern design and efficient burn make it ideal for creating a warm and inviting ambience. The T1200 Firebox is easy to assemble and use. Its compact size makes it easy to position and transport, allowing you to enjoy the warmth and comfort of a fire in any outdoor setting.

With a firebox opening 1320mm wide and 900mm high, it creates a stylish and simple profile for the fireplace, ideal for any customised application. The firebox can also be constructed out of stainless steel painted satin black for harsh coastal areas.

T1600 Firebox

If you have a larger outdoor area or crave a more substantial heat output, the T1600 Firebox is a great option. It’s constructed from heavy-duty steel, ensuring durability and the ability to handle larger logs. The robust construction and ample dimensions make it ideal for creating a captivating focal point in your outdoor area to entertain guests or enjoy a relaxing evening by the fire. With its sturdy design and impressive heating capabilities, the T1600 Firebox is the ultimate choice for those who demand the best outdoor heating solutions.

At 720mm wide and 990mm high,  it increases the width of the fireplace by 30% in comparison to the T1200, making the T1600 perfect for those unwilling to compromise on size. Featuring a unique double chimney design to ensure an effective smoke draw, you can enjoy the same comfort as smaller fireplaces, with increased heat output. Similar to the T1200, the T1600 firebox is available in stainless steel finished in satin black for coastal areas.

T1200 Firebox NZ

Outdoor Fireplace options

Trendz fireboxes are designed for optimum heat output and durability indoors and outdoors. Coupled with unique style and functionality to enhance the ambience of any outdoor space, our fireboxes are the perfect solution for those wanting to build their fireplace into an existing structure.

If, however, you’re after a ready-to-go, prebuilt fireplace, then our range of carefully constructed outdoor fireplaces are perfect. The range includes:

Twin Peak 

Our Twin Peak is a standout model with its distinctive dual-peak design and is ideal for those seeking a striking focal point in their outdoor living space. Grand does not do this design justice, it’s one that needs to be seen to be appreciated.

Single Peak 

Our Single Peak embodies a classic and elegant design with clean lines and a minimalistic silhouette that lends a timeless appeal to any outdoor area. It is perfect for homeowners who prefer a substantial yet sophisticated touch to their outdoor entertaining area.

Burton

Our Burton fireplace matches the grandeur of the peak range but with a simpler execution, offering increased heat output and a more expansive fire viewing area than its smaller sibling, the Mini Burton. It is ideal for larger outdoor living areas or for those who love to entertain guests around a roaring fire. It provides ample warmth and a captivating centrepiece for any outdoor gathering.

Mini Burton

The Mini Burton is a compact and versatile model, making it an excellent option for smaller outdoor spaces. It offers ample heat and is perfect for those looking to maximise functionality without compromising style.

Hudson

Hudson is a unique model that combines the charm of a traditional fireplace with the convenience of modern design. Featuring a built-in storage compartment below the firebox, providing a practical solution for storing firewood or other outdoor accessories. It’s perfect for homeowners who want to blend functionality and aesthetics in their outdoor space.

Douglas

A premium model is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and luxurious design. The Douglas features an intricately detailed exterior and elegant lines making it a stunning centerpiece for any outdoor living area. Perfect for those who appreciate the finer details and want an outdoor fireplace that reflects their refined taste.

Mini Burton Outdoor Fireplace NZ

Should I choose a fireplace firebox or an outdoor fireplace?

Choosing whether a firebox or precast, ready-to-go structure is the best option for you is an important decision to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome for your budget. Below are the reasons for each which will help you to decide.

A fireplace firebox 

A firebox is designed to elevate your space with a touch of elegance and exceptional performance by enabling you to create any structure you wish by inserting the fireplace essentials. You can create the perfect outdoor space without compromising on the heat output or safety of the fireplace. Combined with our numerous, built-in cooking accessories, you can simply enjoy the warmth of the fire or cook up a delicious grilled treat for your guests. A firebox only is also a great option if the structure for your fireplace is required to be engineered to support your roof.

A precast outdoor fireplace

The Trendz precast outdoor fireplace can be the focal point of any outdoor entertaining area and already includes our renowned fireboxes built in. From traditional designs to contemporary to modern, an outdoor fireplace can keep you warm while you cook up a feast, providing a one-of-a-kind outdoor living experience.

The range of outdoor fireplaces offers exceptional hand-made craftsmanship, durability, and customisable accessories to tailor your outdoor living space to you. The precast, turnkey options are ideal for those wanting something quick and easy. They also provide you with a precast structure that you can use to customise the finishing to give you the perfect look for your outdoor area.

At Trendz, we can also supply these plastered and painted which helps you to be able to be 100% sure of your budget when you move ahead with your fireplace. 

Trendz Outdoor fireplaces

All of our outdoor fireplaces feature a black steel firebox and a prefabricated surround. This allows you to select your preferred cladding to match your landscaping design while ensuring a durable and efficient heat source. Options for customisation include plaster and paint, schist, brick, river stone, or mixed materials, offering the perfect finish for your outdoor space As well as accessories that can enhance the overall experience one step further.

Whether you decide on a firebox or an outdoor fireplace, we have the perfect solution to elevate your outdoor living experience by providing warmth, ambience, and long-lasting memories. 

See our gallery for examples of fireboxes and outdoor fireplaces around New Zealand, or contact us. 

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