The Magic of Fire as a
Gathering Point
There’s something primal and powerful about sitting around a fire. Whether it’s the outdoor fireplace on your patio or a simple fire pit, fire naturally draws people in. It sparks conversation, lowers stress, and adds a warm glow to every evening. From telling stories with your kids to sipping wine under the stars, a fire has the rare ability to turn everyday moments into lasting memories.
Extending Your Living Space Outdoors
Adding an outdoor fireplace is like creating a brand-new “room” outside. It blends the comforts of home with fresh air and open sky, turning your backyard into a true extension of your home. Many Houston homeowners are designing outdoor living areas with customized outdoor seating, outdoor kitchens, and decorative lighting. They are transforming their patios into multipurpose spaces for lounging, dining, and entertaining.
Key Takeaways
- Year-Round Outdoor Living: Transform your outdoor living space into a cozy retreat that’s perfect for entertaining or relaxing.
- Perfect for Houston: Fireplaces add ambiance, not just heat—ideal for mild Gulf Coast nights.
- Boost Home Value: Add $1,000+ to your home’s value and recoup over 56% of the installation costs at resale.
- Gas Vs. Wood: Gas offers ease and no cleanup; wood delivers nostalgia but needs more work.
- Professional Installation and Maintenance: Annual maintenance keeps your fireplace safe and efficient for years of enjoyment.
Over the past decade, outdoor fireplaces have skyrocketed in popularity. This is especially true after the pandemic reminded us of the joy of being outdoors. Designs have also evolved. Modern options range from sleek linear fireplaces with fire glass to rustic stone designs, making it easy to match any aesthetic.
Beyond looks, a fireplace naturally becomes the heart of your custom patio. It provides soft light for dinner parties, cozy ambiance for quiet evenings, and year-round opportunities for connection. Whether it’s fun time with your kids, morning coffee on a crisp day, or a summer party accented with glowing light, your fireplace keeps your outdoor experience warm, inviting, and unforgettable.
Lifestyle Benefits in Houston’s Climate
Do Outdoor Fireplaces Make Sense in Houston?
Absolutely! Houston doesn’t experience long, harsh winters. That’s exactly why an outdoor fireplace works so well here. From November through March, temperatures usually hover between 50–70°F. That makes it prime “fireplace season.” Residents enjoy fire for atmosphere, comfort, and connection. Even on humid or damp evenings, a fire creates a cozy and inviting escape.
In Houston, fireplaces are less about heat and more about ambiance. The glow of flames, the crackle of logs in a wood fire, and the conversations they inspire bring psychological warmth, relaxation, and togetherness. They’re perfect for chilly nights, holiday gatherings, or even spring mornings with coffee outdoors.
The benefits last all year. A well-designed outdoor fireplace remains a centerpiece even when it’s not lit. It can be decorated with candles or greenery in summer, anchoring your seating areas, and adding dramatic flair to evening parties. With a fire feature, your outdoor living space becomes usable nearly every month, letting you enjoy Houston’s mild climate to the fullest.
Adding Value to Your Home and Lifestyle
Beyond the enjoyment of flames on cool Houston nights, an outdoor fireplace is also a smart investment. Buyers increasingly love homes with customized outdoor spaces. A custom patio anchored by a fireplace or fire pit delivers instant “wow factor.” Many realtors estimate that these features can add $1,000 or more to the value of your home. And the National Association of REALTORS® reports homeowners recoup about 56% of the cost at resale, which is comparable to other popular home upgrades. But the return isn’t just financial.
Seventy-eight percent of homeowners say a fire feature makes them enjoy their homes more, often spending more time with family outdoors.
In Houston’s competitive real estate market, these fireplaces are even considered “must-haves” in luxury homes. They help properties stand out, sell faster, and appeal to buyers who value entertaining, relaxation, and outdoor hospitality.
To maximize both lifestyle and resale value, professional installation and thoughtful design are key. The right materials, finishes, and placement ensure your fireplace enhances your outdoor living space and avoids the pitfalls of poor workmanship that can hurt value.
Gas or Wood? Choosing the Right Outdoor Fireplace for You
Gas or Wood? Choosing the Right Outdoor Fireplace for YouOne of the biggest decisions when adding an outdoor fireplace in Houston is whether to go with gas or wood. Each has its advantages depending on your lifestyle.
Wood-Burning Fireplaces — Rustic Charm with Some Work
The Authentic Fire Experience
Gas or Wood? Choosing the Right Outdoor Fireplace for You
- Nostalgic crackle of real logs, smoky scent, and dancing flames.
- Creates a campfire-like atmosphere perfect for family time or romantic nights.
- Adds rustic charm and tradition to your custom patio.
Heat Output Advantages
- Puts out more radiant warmth (great for cold snaps).
- Heat can be adjusted by adding wood.
The Work Involved
- Requires sourcing and storing dry firewood
- Fire-starting with kindling and patience
- Regular ash cleanup and chimney maintenance
- More time and effort compared to gas
Environmental & Health Considerations
- Can produce smoke that contains particle pollution and carbon monoxide.
- Smoke can affect neighbors living nearby.
- Best practices: burn seasoned wood, use proper ventilation, and clean chimneys to minimize smoke and risks.
Gas-Burning Fireplaces — Ultimate Convenience and Clean Burn
The Convenience Factor
- Instant flames with a switch or remote control.
- No prep time, no monitoring required.
- Easy to turn off at the end of the night.
- Perfect for spontaneous gatherings.
The Clean Alternative
- “All the beauty without the mess of wood and ash.”
- No sparks, embers, or smoke stains
- No wood storage or cleanup
Environmental Benefits
- Burns cleanly with minimal emissions.
- It’s so clean they don’t even require EPA certification.
- No particulate pollution makes it safer for your lungs and neighbor friendly.
Fuel Options: Natural Gas vs. Propane
- Natural Gas: Continuous supply, efficient, requires gas line installation
- Propane: Flexible for homes without gas service but needs tank refills
- Costs vary by fuel type and availability.
Aesthetic Options
- Realistic ceramic logs
- Contemporary fire glass
- Custom shapes, sizes, and finishes to match your outdoor living space.
Houston Market Preferences
- Gas is extremely popular locally due to its convenience and our climate.
- A great fit for busy homeowners who want ambiance without the hassle.
Conversion & Hybrid Options
- Consider converting your existing wood fireplace to gas.
- Add gas starters to make lighting wood fires easier.
- Hybrid systems allow flexibility between fuel types.
Installation, Maintenance, and Safety Considerations
Whether you choose gas or wood, proper installation and upkeep are the key to making your outdoor fireplace safe, efficient, and long-lasting.
Why Professional Installation Matters
- Skip the DIY: Improper installs can create hazards, violate codes, or shorten your fireplace’s lifespan.
- Code Compliance and Safety: Certified pros ensure correct permits, clearances from combustibles (like overhangs, fences, and structures), and adherence to building codes.
- Durability: Proper foundations, heat-resistant materials, and structural design keep your outdoor fireplace safe and solid for years.
Gas Fireplace Installation Specifics
- Certified technician required for gas lines. This is an EPA requirement.
- Leak testing and ventilation: Ensures efficiency and prevents hazards.
- Ignition systems: Options include electronic ignition or pilot lights.
- Modern features: Remote control operation and built-in safety shut offs add convenience and peace of mind.
Annual Maintenance Essentials
- Gas fireplaces should be inspected annually, covering:
- Burner cleaning and adjustment
- Ignition system verification
- Ventilation assessment
- Gas line and connection checks
- Quick, affordable, and required for efficiency and safety (EPA)
- Wood-burning units need chimney cleaning and ash removal as part of yearly care.
Universal Safety Guidelines
- Keep furniture, décor, and flammable items at a safe distance.
- Use fire screens for wood-burning fireplaces.
- Never leave your fire unattended.
- Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
- Take weather precautions (wind, drought, burn bans).
- Prioritize child and pet safety around open flames.
Long-Term Care & Upkeep
- With proper maintenance, your fireplace will last for many years.
- Watch for signs it’s time to upgrade or replace your outdoor fireplace.
- Review warranty and insurance requirements regularly.
- Prepare for seasonal use: winterization, inspections, and safe storage of accessories.
Enhancing Your Outdoor Living — Houston Style
An outdoor fireplace can truly transform your Houston backyard, bringing together the best of outdoor living and home comfort. It’s more than just a design upgrade. It’s about creating a year-round gathering place where ambiance, comfort, and personality all come together. With one feature, your outdoor living space becomes the perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment, whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying quiet evenings, or spending family time outdoors.
For Houston homeowners, Perfection Supply is the trusted name in fire features. Since 1979, our team has specialized in creating customized outdoor solutions that reflect your style while fitting seamlessly into your space. From gas and wood-burning outdoor fireplace systems to fire glass, gas log sets, and accessories, we offer everything you need to craft a truly personalized outdoor experience. Our services include expert installation, ongoing maintenance, and custom design options that fit your vision, budget, and lifestyle. Are you ready to turn your patio into your favorite “room” in the house? Contact us today for a free estimate or stop by our Houston showroom. Let us show you how easy it is to bring the warm glow of fire into your life and your home.
References
“Build an Outdoor Fireplace.” 417 Magazine, May 2018, www.417mag.com/issues/may-2018/build-an-outdoor-fireplace/. Accessed 2025.
“Frequent Questions About Wood-Burning Appliances.” U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, http://www.epa.gov/burnwise/frequent-questions-about-wood-burning-appliances. Accessed 2025.
“Gas Logs.” Perfection Supply, www.perfectionsupply.com/fireplaces/gas-logs/. Accessed 2025.
“Outdoor Fireplaces.” Perfection Supply, www.perfectionsupply.com/fireplaces/outdoor-fireplaces/. Accessed 2025.
“Remodeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features.” National Association of REALTORS®, Mar. 2023, https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2023-03-remodeling-impact-outdoor-features-03-17-2023.pdf?_gl=1*2dtxua*_gcl_au*MTMyMTg1NjU3Ny4xNjk5OTUxMzU1. Accessed 2025.
“Residential Wood Burning.” American Lung Association, www.lung.org/clean-air/indoor-air/indoor-air-pollutants/residential-wood-burning. Accessed 2025.
“Top Design Trends for 2024.” National Association of Home Builders, Feb. 2024, www.nahb.org/news-and-economics/press-releases/2024/02/top-design-trends-for-2024. Accessed 2025.
