While converting from a natural gas or wood-burning unit to a gel fuel fireplace would be a great way to reduce the carbon footprint created by your evenings of backyard entertainment, that’s not the only reason to make the switch. Gel fuel outdoor fireplaces are also very attractive units that are far easier to operate and maintain than traditional hearth products because there is no mess and therefore no cleanup required.

We carry a vast selection of clean-burning gel fuel fireplace models in a variety of styles and sizes here at MantelsDirect.com, including the following:

• Sierra by Real Flame. This is a lovely pagoda style unit made from cast concrete and powder-coated steel. The flame burns over a bed of decorative lava rocks and logs, and features a crackling effect for greater authenticity. A pull-out drawer holds up to four cans of gel fuel, while a convenient extinguishing lever helps you put out the fire quickly. This model is available in black or copper finish.
• Allure Sedona Tabletop Fire Pit. The Allure Sedona Tabletop model is a lightweight product that can be placed on any table or stand, and is therefore recommended if you’re looking for something small and portable. It incorporates Venturi Flame technology to produce a mesmerizing “dancing fire” or swirling flame effect that is sure to enthrall you and your guests for hours on end.
• Real Flame Modesto. This Modesto freestanding design is another of the great Real Flame outdoor fireplaces we carry. At just over three feet tall and made from fiber-cast concrete and glass, the unit comes with a column, glass cover, decorative river rock, burn cup and snuffer tool. It can be used indoors or out, and would look just as beautiful in your living room or den as in your backyard.
• Inspiration Silver Vein. For a truly stunning fireplace, check out the Inspiration Silver Vein model. Constructed of weather- and corrosion-resistant aluminum and stainless steel, this product sets up in minutes thanks to the included wall anchor kit. The swirling Venturi Flame burns over a bed of diamond-glass crystals for a brilliant effect that complements any décor.

Gel fuel outdoor fireplaces are the way to go when you want a clean-burning, maintenance-free hearth product that doesn’t require any kind of ventilation system. Be sure to view our entire collection at MantelsDirect.com and purchase an eco-friendly fireplace that fits your lifestyle today.

Most people choose to use outdoor fireplaces as a primary source of heat in the yard. Wood-burning units in particular are known to generate the amount of warmth necessary to keep your outdoor space comfortable no matter what the calendar says. This is a major reason why our Napa Collection is such a hit with customers.

Every wood-burning fireplace in our Napa Collection is sold as a modular kit with an easy-to-assemble interlocking design that doesn’t require the use of glue, mortar, or fasteners. Because each piece simply snaps into place, you don’t need to hire a contractor or purchase expensive tools to install your new fireplace and get it working.

Here are some more reasons you should give Napa outdoor fireplaces a look:

• Made of a patented reinforced composite concrete and fiberglass material that is more durable than concrete alone.
• Will actually get stronger over time as the concrete continues to cure after prolonged outdoor exposure to moisture and the elements.
• Has a sandy finish with the look and feel of aged concrete.
• All outdoor fireplaces in this collection come with a grate, spark arrestor, and realistic-looking brick liner for the firebox.
• Mid-sized choices include the Calistoga, Helena, and Franciscan models.
• Large-sized choices include the Coppola and Sonoma models.
• Available in tan, terra cotta, midnight, and stone gray finish, depending on the model.
• Comes with one-year warranty against manufacturing and material defects.
• Sold exclusively by MantelsDirect.com.

Outdoor fireplaces like the ones in our Napa Collection are a smart investment for folks who want to do more with their backyard or patio. The heat these units provide will keep you toasty even in the colder months, thereby considerably extending your outdoor entertaining season. For more information on this collection or to place an order, please see individual product pages on our site.

The potential dangers of home hearth products are essentially the same whether you’re talking about a full-sized fireplace or a small fire pit. To ensure the well-being of your family, guests, and property while enjoying your heating or cooking product, please observe the following safety tips.

• Do not leave a burning fire unattended. While some gas outdoor fireplaces have automatic shutoff systems, you won’t find this feature in a wood-burning unit or a fire pit. If you intend to leave the area for more than a few minutes, put the fire out.
• Keep a fire extinguisher, working hose, sand, or full buckets of water near the unit so that you can quickly douse any burning embers or sparks discharged from the firebox.
• Use a spark screen or other type of spark arrestor to contain burning embers.
• Properly maintain your fireplace or fire pit by cleaning it regularly. Poor maintenance habits can lead to clogged fuel lines or vents, which will in turn hinder safe operation.
• Make sure your hearth product is installed on a level, stable surface to prevent tipping. Some outdoor fireplaces weigh over 1,000 pounds, which presents a serious crushing hazard for furniture, pets, and people.
• Do not set up your unit near wooden structures, dry brush and leaves, electrical wires, or low overhanging branches.
• Store extra fuel, such as wood logs, charcoal, or propane tanks, in a clean, dry area well away from your hearth product.
• If you see signs of rust or other material degradation, it is time to replace the damaged part or the entire unit. Rusted fireboxes can easily collapse, leaving you with a burning heap of wood and ashes on your patio.
• Keep people and pets several feet away from the fireplace or fire pit to avoid being burned by sparks, embers, or leaping flames.

When proper precautions are taken, outdoor fireplaces are a wonderful means of enhancing your backyard. Please adhere to the above safety guidelines and read the operating manual provided by the manufacturer so you can enjoy your product without worry.

Of the many different brands of outdoor fireplaces we sell here at MantelsDirect.com, the ones from Patina Products are among the most distinctive. This company makes attractive fire pit units that are durable and easy to care for. Each one comes with a natural rust patina finish that will continue to age over time to create a truly unique look.

These fire pits are available in a number of different designs as well. For example, the Atlantic Coast model has shapes of starfish, crabs, lighthouses, seahorses, and more cut right into the side of the bowl, while the Mardi Gras unit showcases such shapes as fleur-de-lis symbols, saxophones, and the outline of the state of Louisiana. Other available models include Chinese Characters, Pacific Coast, Safari, Mosaic Santa Fe, Flower & Garden, and Wild Duck.

In addition, each wood-burning fire pit from Patina Products boasts the following features and benefits:

• Fully assembled for immediate use right out of the box.
• Weather-resistant solid steel construction.
• 30-inch safety ring around the top rim of the bowl that doubles as a convenient handle or footrest.
• Welded steel legs to prevent tipping and wobbling.
• Portability.
• Wire mesh spark guard to prevent sparks and burning embers from escaping through the design cutouts.
• BBQ grill, wood poker, and weather cover included in the box.

You’ve heard your friends raving about how outdoor fireplaces allow them to spend time on the deck all year round; now it’s your turn to get in on the action. Whether you end up choosing a large fireplace or a portable fire pit from Patina Products, we know you’ll enjoy the result!

Gas fireplace inserts fit into your existing fireplace framework to give the unit an all-new look and feel. They require no chimney or special ventilation system, so installation is fast and easy. Gas fireplace inserts even work in wood outdoor fireplaces, which means you can transform an inefficient, labor-intensive model into a convenient, energy-efficient source of heat and warmth in your yard.

And that’s just the beginning. Gas fireplace inserts also provide you with these fantastic features and benefits.

• 100% stainless steel construction for supreme durability even in the face of the harshest outdoor conditions and weather elements.
• Exclusive PHAZER log set that produces the most realistic looking flames available in gas outdoor fireplaces.
• Between 40,000 and 65,000 BTU output (depending on model) and 99.9% energy efficiency for extra savings on heating bills.
• Remote control access and piezo ignition for ease of use.
• Safe Guard gas control system to automatically shut off the gas supply if you forget to do it.
• Fully adjustable flames for more control over heat levels in your outdoor space.
• Numerous styles and finishes to complement the rest of your outdoor furniture.

As you prepare to renovate your backyard, you should weigh all available options in regards to upgrading your fireplace. The right gas inserts can make outdoor fireplaces look and function as good as new while improving energy efficiency and saving money, so we encourage you to give these products a look before shelling out major cash for a complete rebuild.

Add an Outdoor Fireplace or Fire Pit
Cold weather is typically the biggest enemy of outdoor entertaining. After all, nobody wants to have to bundle up in multiple layers of clothing as well as a heavy jacket in order to sit outside for a couple hours. Fortunately, this problem can be solved by adding an outdoor fireplace or fire pit to your patio or deck.

Fireplaces and fire pits come in many sizes and styles, so you can easily find one that fits your available space and existing décor. A beautiful outdoor fireplace not only adds charm to your backyard, but also provides essential heating and cooking functions. Choose a wood-burning unit for authenticity, or go with natural gas if you value convenience over all else. You might even find that electric models are more suited to your tastes, so be sure to give those some consideration as well.

You can take advantage of the versatility of your outdoor fireplace by using it for cookouts in warm weather, and then relying on its heating properties when temperatures cool. For larger outdoor spaces, look for a model that is big enough to produce sufficient heat throughout the area so you don’t end up with cold pockets. In smaller spaces, a fire pit usually generates enough warmth to make everyone comfortable.

Enhance the Ambience with Plants and Trees
To create a truly inviting outdoor space, you should pay attention to the plants, trees, and general state of the landscaping in your yard. If the immediate area is filled with seasonal blooms that die off with the autumn chill, then the ambience will remain dull and drab no matter what kind of outdoor fireplace you buy. But if you add some hardy shrubs, perennials, and trees near your patio, you can instantly change the atmosphere to one full of life and vitality. Spruces, birches, holly bushes, and camellias are all very popular year-round choices.

In addition, a well-groomed yard contributes to the overall atmosphere, so be sure to mow the lawn, rake leaves, and shovel snow when required.

These days, you no longer have to place limits on the time spent in your outdoor living space. By taking the relatively simple steps of purchasing an outdoor fireplace or fire pit and adding some greenery to your landscaping, you will be in a great position to entertain all year long.

Oakland Living Fireplaces & Chimineas are the perfect outdoor hearth products for customers seeking high quality in an affordable package. Every fireplace, fire pit, and chiminea from this manufacturer is constructed of cast iron to ensure maximum durability even when exposed to extreme temperatures, and they all feature a powder coat finish that resists cracking, chipping, and fading. This means your outdoor heating and cooking product will last for years with little to no maintenance, which is good news for your wallet.

If you’re interested in Oakland Living Fireplaces & Chimineas, don’t miss the following models:

In order to get the most out of your patio, deck, or backyard, you need to be able to use it for a variety of purposes in a variety of weather conditions. Oakland Living Fireplaces & Chimineas help you achieve this goal by providing you with a product that can serve as a heating or cooking appliance throughout all four seasons. Order yours from Mantels Direct today!

Wood or charcoal burning
A wood or charcoal burning outdoor fireplace gives you the greatest amount of flexibility in terms of both cooking and heating applications. With the right grilling accessories, you can first prepare a delicious meal and then sit back to bask in the warmth of a genuine wood fire. These units typically feature double-walled construction for extra durability and work best in larger spaces where a level surface made of concrete or other noncombustible materials is available.

Natural gas
If you love the idea of lounging in front of an outdoor fireplace on a cool autumn night but don’t have the patience or energy required to get a wood fire going, then natural gas is a terrific alternative. A gas outdoor fireplace turns on and off with the twist of a knob, which means you spend less time trying to light the fire and more time enjoying its benefits. This type of unit is made of stainless steel and can be used with either liquid propane or natural gas fuels. Since they require no ventilation system, natural gas models can be installed virtually anywhere on your property, including enclosed areas.

Fire pit
When space or financial concerns play a primary role in your purchasing decision, then a fire pit might be the answer you’re looking for. Smaller and more affordable than full-sized fireplaces, a fire pit can still provide you with the warmth and ambience you crave. These products are available in many styles and designs, and can be enhanced with various accents such as copper, stone, or tile. Portability is a key fire pit feature that allows you to set up the unit on the ground, your wood deck, or even a table top.

Today’s home hearth products are built to last for years, so don’t make the mistake of getting stuck with one that is ill-suited to your needs. To ensure you derive the most satisfaction out of your outdoor fireplace or fire pit, consider the benefits and potential drawbacks of each type prior to making a decision.

Have you been putting off the purchase of an outdoor fireplace because of the prospect of a long and messy assembly process? We don’t blame you. Who has time to deal with mixing mortar or finding the right glues and fasteners for the project? This is one of the main reasons why Mantels Direct is proud to include Perfect Outdoor Fireplace kits in our inventory of home hearth products.

Perfect Outdoor Fireplace kits take the hassle out of installing a fireplace in your backyard or outdoor kitchen. These pre-fab units are made of interlocking components that fit together without the use of adhesive compounds. Assembly can be completed in about an hour, which means you can begin using your new unit for heating or cooking on the same day it arrives at your home.

Here are some additional features that make Perfect Outdoor Fireplace kits worth a look:

• Modular design. The interlocking modular design not only makes assembly a breeze, but also makes it easy to disassemble and move your fireplace to another location or even put it in storage for the winter.
• No coating required. Perfect Outdoor Fireplace kits give you a great-looking product right out of the box. The units are available in 8 popular colors that require no additional coating at all. However, if you want to customize your unit, it is very easy to add bricks or stonework for a more elegant finish.
• Charcoal/wood or natural gas units. Choose the fireplace/BBQ edition for charcoal and wood-burning capabilities, or go with the multi-screen unit for the no muss, no fuss convenience of natural gas (optional logs are available as well).
• Multiple door and screen options. Just because Perfect Outdoor Fireplace kits are prefabricated, that doesn’t mean they can’t be personalized. We have five beautiful door handle designs to choose from, as well as different screen options that give you almost full control over the way the final product looks.
• Heat-dissipating stone. Each kit is made from durable heat-dissipating stone that not only withstands burning fires, but also resists cracking when exposed to extreme cold and snow.

Perfect Outdoor Fireplace kits make it easier than ever to assemble and install a home hearth product in your yard. If you’ve been holding off on a purchase because of misconceptions about assembly woes, then now’s the time to reconsider. Take advantage of our free shipping offer by ordering your kit today!