An outdoor fireplace with roof is more than just a backyard luxury. It extends your outdoor living space, offers protection from harsh elements, and can boost your home’s value.
Here’s a quick snapshot of why adding a roof over your outdoor fireplace is beneficial:
If you’re thinking about designing or adding a roof to your outdoor fireplace, understanding the benefits helps you make an informed decision.
Simple outdoor fireplace with roof word guide:
– outdoor fireplace with chimney
– outdoor fireplace with mantel
– outdoor wood burning fireplace
At Dube Property Maintenance & Hardscaping, we frequently install outdoor fireplaces with roofs for homeowners in Massachusetts and New Hampshire—and it’s not hard to see why they’re becoming so popular. Our clients consistently rave about the comfort, convenience, and added value these charming structures bring to their homes.
One standout benefit of having an outdoor fireplace with roof is how it transforms your backyard into a four-season gathering spot. Recent studies show that homeowners actually enjoy covered outdoor fireplaces about three times more often than uncovered versions.
As one of our North Andover clients recently shared, “Everyone adores outdoor fireplaces. They naturally draw out feelings of comfort and romance, setting the perfect scene for cozy nights and memorable moments.”
Here in New England, we experience everything from snowy winters to bright, sunny summers (sometimes in the same week!). A roof over your outdoor fireplace offers essential protection from heavy rain, snow, and pesky falling leaves or debris. It also shields your structure from direct sunlight, preventing fading or wear. And when those brisk New England winds kick up, the roof even helps manage smoke direction and flame stability.
Not only does a roofed structure keep you more comfortable year-round, but it also significantly extends the lifespan of your fireplace by safeguarding it against the elements.
Adding an outdoor fireplace with roof can instantly lift the look and feel of your outdoor living area, creating a striking architectural focal point. With thoughtful design and high-quality materials like stone, stucco, tile, or brick, your outdoor fireplace can perfectly complement your home’s existing style. The result? A beautifully cohesive landscape that’s as inviting as it is functional.
Beyond comfort and aesthetics, an outdoor fireplace with roof also makes good financial sense. According to a recent 2023 survey, homes featuring covered outdoor fireplaces typically enjoy a boost in property value—up to 15-20%. So, investing in this outdoor upgrade doesn’t just improve your lifestyle, it also creates lasting, tangible value for your property.
Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of an outdoor fireplace with roof is how it effortlessly creates an “outdoor room.” While you’re still surrounded by nature, the roof helps define the space, making it feel cozy, protected, and inviting. It quickly becomes a favorite spot for gathering, cooking, and entertaining family and friends year-round.
As another client from Methuen explained, “Our covered fireplace area is now our favorite ‘room’ in the house—especially on those crisp fall evenings or cool spring mornings when you want to be outdoors but still comfortable.”
Ready to lift your outdoor space even further? Consider integrating cooking features like grills or pizza ovens into your fireplace area. Explore our guide to Outdoor Fireplace with Cooking Grill for inspiration and details.
When it comes to enhancing the beauty, functionality, and value of your outdoor space, an outdoor fireplace with roof really is hard to beat.
Creating a cozy, inviting outdoor fireplace with roof takes thoughtful planning and a little creativity. After all, you’ll want a space that fits perfectly with your home, improves your outdoor lifestyle, and stands strong through New England’s weather—year in and year out.
Let’s walk through the key considerations to help design a roofed outdoor fireplace that’s both beautiful and functional.
When planning your outdoor fireplace with roof, think first about how you’ll use your new space. Is your goal mainly ambiance and warmth during chilly evenings, or do you envision an entertaining hotspot with food sizzling on the grill or pizza baking away?
Next, take a good look at your backyard and home architecture. You’ll want a structure that harmonizes with what you already have. Consider the size and scale—your outdoor fireplace shouldn’t overwhelm your yard or home but should feel proportional and welcoming. The style itself can range from rustic and natural to sleek and contemporary. Matching your home’s existing architecture creates a seamless look, while intentionally contrasting styles can add visual interest and character.
Location matters too. Ideal placement accounts for attractive views, safe distances from your home, prevailing wind patterns (you don’t want smoke blowing toward guests!), and proximity to other outdoor features such as patios, pools, or gardens.
When it comes to materials, the possibilities are exciting—but careful selection is essential for durability, safety, and aesthetics. Your fireplace itself should be built from fire-resistant materials such as natural stone, brick, or stucco.
Stone is sturdy and timeless, offering a natural look that fits beautifully with many homes. Brick provides a classic appeal and can be arranged in creative patterns. Stucco offers a smooth and clean aesthetic that’s easily colored to match your home’s exterior. For decorative flair, consider adding tile accents on the fireplace surround or hearth.
The roof structure over your fireplace also needs careful attention. Popular choices include wood, such as cedar or redwood, which naturally resist decay; metal, like aluminum or steel, giving a more modern look; or even composite materials, which offer low-maintenance benefits. Traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles can also tie the outdoor structure visually to your home’s main roof.
Another important consideration is chimney placement. Typically, the chimney is built outside the main support beams of your pavilion or pergola to improve safety and aesthetics.
The style of roof you select will dramatically shape the overall look and function of your outdoor living area. A gazebo style roof provides an neat, rounded, or octagonal design with a pointed roof, offering a sense of charm and traditional beauty.
A pergola, with its open-beam structure, offers partial shade and a breezier feel, perfect for sunny days when you want airflow but still some protection from the elements.
If you’re looking for complete coverage from rain and snow, a pavilion style with a solid roof structure is ideal. It creates a defined outdoor room, allowing for year-round comfort for you and your guests.
For those with unique ideas or specific requirements, custom designs can blend features from these styles or introduce something entirely unique to your space.
Here in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, our outdoor structures need to withstand all kinds of weather—from humid summers to freezing winters. Selecting weather-resistant materials is essential for longevity.
We always recommend natural stone such as granite or bluestone, as these materials handle our local freeze-thaw cycles exceptionally well. For brick, choose high-fired brick that’s more resistant to moisture than standard brickwork. If your fireplace includes metal components like hardware, marine-grade stainless steel (#316 stainless steel) is ideal to prevent corrosion, especially if you’re near coastal areas.
Safety is equally crucial when selecting materials. Fire-resistant materials are a must around the firebox and chimney area. Be sure your fireplace has a proper liner in the firebox, a chimney that’s properly insulated, and a non-combustible surround directly above your fireplace. Generally, an outdoor fireplace under a roof structure measures about 6 feet in width, with wood-burning fireplaces requiring around 5 feet in depth, including the hearth.
A thoughtfully designed outdoor fireplace with roof not only warms your chilly evenings but can also become the heart of your outdoor cooking and entertaining space.
Cooking amenities such as built-in grills can integrate seamlessly with your fireplace structure, letting you grill steaks or burgers while enjoying the ambiance of a crackling fire. Pizza ovens are another popular addition, and many homeowners love entertaining family and friends by preparing fresh, wood-fired pizzas right in their backyard. Consider adding rotisserie attachments or warming drawers to expand your outdoor culinary options even further.
Explore more design ideas for cooking with your outdoor fireplace by visiting our Outdoor Fireplace with Cooking Grill page.
Don’t overlook the entertainment factor either! Create a complete outdoor living room by incorporating comfortable seating areas, outdoor dining spaces, or even a built-in bar. Including cabinetry or shelves provides convenient storage space for dining essentials, firewood, and cooking supplies.
For added comfort and enjoyment, consider special features like weather-resistant audio systems, outdoor TVs, and a mix of lighting options—ambient, task, and accent lighting all combine to help you enjoy your outdoor space long into the evening.
As one of our North Reading clients put it, “We wanted to recreate the magic of summer camp right here at home—and now our backyard fireplace area is the favorite gathering spot for friends, family, and neighbors alike!”
With a well-designed outdoor fireplace with roof, your backyard is transformed into a beloved outdoor “room” that invites laughter, warmth, and memories all year round.
Whether you already have a cozy outdoor fireplace and want to shelter it from the elements, or you’re envisioning a new outdoor fireplace with roof from scratch, the process can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered (pun absolutely intended!). At Dube Property Maintenance & Hardscaping, we help homeowners steer this exciting journey step-by-step, making it simple, safe, and enjoyable.
Here’s our warm, friendly guide to adding a roof to your outdoor fireplace.
Before we dive into building, we need to pause and take a good look at what you already have. Every outdoor fireplace is unique, and we want to ensure your space is ready for this new upgrade.
First, we’ll determine your fireplace type. Wood-burning fireplaces have special ventilation requirements—typically, the chimney must extend at least 3 feet above the roofline to properly vent smoke and prevent fire hazards. On the other hand, gas fireplaces usually just need an exhaust vent, making them easier to integrate into roofed structures. And if you have a ventless gas or LP fireplace, you’re in luck—these require no chimney at all.
Once we’ve identified your fireplace type, we’ll examine the structural soundness of your setup. This includes checking that the existing foundation is strong enough to support a new roof. We’ll carefully inspect the construction of your current fireplace and chimney to ensure they’re safe, code-compliant, and suitable for adding extra weight.
Last but not least, our team will evaluate your outdoor space itself. We’ll note potential obstacles like overhead utility wires, underground utilities, slopes, trees, property line setbacks, and even landscape features that might influence roof placement or design. And of course, we’ll discuss how the new roof might affect views from your home and yard, making sure your new structure improves—not detracts from—your outdoor experience.
Once we’re confident your fireplace and yard are ready, the fun part begins: choosing your roof style! We’ll help you match the roof to your home’s architecture, personal style, and how you plan to use your new space.
Pergola roofs offer partial shade and allow for natural airflow, making them perfect if you’re looking for filtered sunlight or plan to grow climbing plants. They’re ideal for mild climates or spaces meant primarily for relaxation and ambiance.
If you’re aiming for complete protection, especially here in our snowy New England winters, a pavilion roof may be your best bet. These solid structures provide full shade and weather protection, creating an inviting outdoor room for cooking, dining, and entertaining all year round.
For special cases or unique backyard designs, we also offer custom roof options. These custom designs beautifully integrate into your existing architecture, address unique site challenges, and express your individuality.
Climate is another important factor. In snowy regions like ours, steeper roof pitches help shed heavy snowfall effectively. Rainy areas benefit from well-designed drainage systems and waterproof materials. For windy locations, we’ll ensure the structure is secure and built to withstand strong gusts. If your yard is sunny, we’ll orient the roof and add strategic overhangs to provide optimal shade.
Lastly, chimney integration needs careful planning. For safety compliance, chimneys in structures with eave or hip roofs must rise at least 2 feet higher than any roof surface within 10 feet. We’ll ensure your chimney meets these standards without compromising aesthetics.
Here’s a helpful infographic illustrating the best roof styles for different climates:
At Dube Property Maintenance & Hardscaping, we believe the building process should be just as enjoyable as relaxing by the fireplace when it’s complete. Our professional team follows proven best practices, ensuring a smooth, safe, and beautiful result.
First, we’ll prepare a solid foundation. In New England, this usually means pouring concrete footings below the frost line, creating a stable and level base, and installing proper drainage to keep your structure safe and dry.
If we’re also building your fireplace from scratch, we’ll use fire-resistant materials like firebrick and refractory mortar for the firebox and chimney lining. We’ll then apply your choice of exterior finishes—stone, stucco, tile, or brick—to match your style and home’s architecture.
Next comes the exciting roof construction phase. Our team erects sturdy support posts—typically heavy-duty pressure-treated lumber or neat masonry columns. We install beams and rafters carefully sized to support snow loads, wind pressures, and roofing materials. Once the frame is ready, we’ll add roofing materials matched to your existing home or your desired design aesthetic.
Throughout construction, we pay close attention to chimney height and ventilation requirements. As a rule of thumb (and building code), wood-burning outdoor fireplaces with roofs require the chimney to rise at least 3 feet above the roofline. This ensures proper draft, prevents smoke accumulation inside the structure, and reduces fire risks. For peak or gable roof styles, this 3-foot rule applies; for hip or eave roofs, chimneys must be at least 2 feet taller than any roof surface within 10 feet.
To finish off your new living space, we’ll incorporate thoughtful details that improve your comfort and convenience. Consider weather-resistant lighting fixtures for cozy nighttime gatherings, weatherproof ceiling fans to circulate air, and built-in storage or counters to make entertaining easy. Finally, we’ll seal and weatherproof all materials to protect your investment against harsh New England weather.
For additional safety tips, check out this helpful resource from HGTV: Safety considerations for outdoor fireplaces.
When the project is complete, you’ll have more than just an outdoor fireplace with roof—you’ll have a welcoming new gathering space to enjoy year-round with family and friends. And we can promise you, nothing beats cozying up by a warm fire, savoring the fresh air, and relishing the satisfaction of a job well done.
You’ve invested in a beautiful, cozy outdoor fireplace with roof—now what? Like a beloved car or the family pet, your outdoor fireplace area needs regular care to ensure it stays safe, functional, and looking its best year-round. A little TLC goes a long way in extending the lifespan of your fireplace and roof structure.
Let’s walk you through the best way to keep your outdoor space in top shape season by season:
In spring, it’s cleanup time! Clear away leaves, branches, and debris from your roof and gutters. Check your fireplace for any winter wear and tear, such as cracked stones or mortar. This is also the perfect time to thoroughly clean the firebox and chimney. Don’t forget to inspect wood structures for rot or signs of insect damage resulting from winter moisture.
When summer rolls around, your outdoor space likely sees regular use for cookouts and gatherings. Now is the ideal time to check for any weather-related damage from spring rains or summer storms. Inspect and clean the roof, touch up any damaged finishes, and make sure the seals around chimney flashing are tight. Also, trim back any vegetation growing too close to your structure—plants look lovely, but fire safety always comes first.
As the air turns crisp in fall, get ready for some cozy evenings around your fireplace. Have your chimney professionally inspected and cleaned to prevent dangerous creosote buildup. Stock up on well-seasoned firewood and store it safely away from your fireplace. Check your outdoor lighting and electrical fittings to ensure those autumn evenings stay beautifully lit and safe.
During winter, keep an eye on snow accumulation on your roof and carefully remove it if needed to prevent extra weight or ice dams. Keep the area around your fireplace clear and regularly inspect it for storm damage. After severe weather, a quick check helps you find and address any issues promptly.
Different materials in your outdoor fireplace with roof require slightly different maintenance approaches. For stone and masonry fireplaces, annual cleaning using a gentle cleanser and re-sealing every two to three years will keep them looking brand-new. Wooden structures benefit from resealing or refinishing every one to two years, depending on how much sun or weather exposure they get. For metal elements, keep an eye out for rust and treat spots quickly with protective coatings.
Since safety is always priority number one, make chimney care a regular habit—especially for wood-burning fireplaces. Schedule a professional inspection and cleaning once a year to prevent creosote buildup. Don’t forget to check that chimney caps are secure, preventing unwanted guests (like nesting birds or squirrels!) from entering. Also, ensure the chimney flashing is watertight to protect against leaks and damage.
Installing an outdoor fireplace with roof is an investment that can significantly improve your home and lifestyle. But how much does it cost?
Based on average internet data (not actual pricing from Dube Property Maintenance & Hardscaping), the costs for building an outdoor fireplace can vary dramatically. A simple, basic outdoor fireplace structure may range anywhere from $1,500 to as high as $20,000—with an average landing around $3,000. For high-end custom designs with additional features like outdoor kitchens, built-in seating, or specialized materials, costs can rise significantly, running anywhere from $9,000 up to an impressive $60,000. If you’re adding a roof structure to an existing outdoor fireplace, expect those costs to range from $5,000 to $30,000, depending on complexity and choice of materials.
Several factors influence these wide-ranging costs, including:
While these numbers might seem steep at first glance, you’re investing in your home’s value and your own quality of life. An outdoor fireplace with roof doesn’t just provide warmth and comfort—it can potentially increase your home’s overall value by an impressive 15-20%. Plus, you’ll enjoy more outdoor relaxation at home, cutting down on costs associated with outside entertainment.
For additional cost details, check out this useful guide: How Much Does An Outdoor Fireplace Cost To Build?
All in all, investing in an outdoor fireplace with roof adds comfort, charm, and value to your home for years to come. Keep up with regular maintenance, and you’ll enjoy countless relaxing evenings outdoors—safely, comfortably, and beautifully.
Absolutely! Installing an outdoor fireplace with roof can boost your home’s value by as much as 15-20%. According to recent real estate surveys, buyers are increasingly looking for homes with inviting outdoor spaces that offer both comfort and functionality.
But it’s not just about the numbers—it’s also about creating a special place for family and friends to gather. Covered fireplaces expand your home’s usable living space, attracting buyers who envision relaxing weekends cooking meals outdoors or cozy evenings around a crackling fire. In short, an outdoor fireplace with a roof isn’t just an investment in your home; it’s an investment in your lifestyle.
For more cozy fireplace inspiration, check out 23 Cozy Outdoor Fireplace Ideas for a Cool-Weather Hangout Space.
Choosing the right materials for your outdoor fireplace with roof depends on your style preferences, local climate, and budget.
For the fireplace itself, we recommend durable, fire-resistant materials like natural stone, which offers a gorgeous, rustic appearance and holds heat effectively, or brick, a classic choice that provides excellent fire resistance and design flexibility. Stucco is another popular option—it’s versatile, affordable, and available in a range of colors to match your home exterior.
When it comes to the roof structure, cedar or redwood are popular, natural wood options with built-in resistance to decay and insects. Pressure-treated lumber can provide similar durability at a lower price point. Some homeowners prefer metal framing for its sturdiness and longevity or engineered wood products for their consistent quality and stability.
Finally, for roofing material, metal roofing is lightweight, fire-resistant, and long-lasting—ideal for the unpredictable New England weather. Asphalt shingles offer a budget-friendly, attractive look and come in many colors that can coordinate with your home’s existing roof. Clay or concrete tiles can add a distinctive charm and durability to your structure.
At Dube Property Maintenance & Hardscaping, we work regularly throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire, where freeze-thaw cycles and heavy snow loads are part of daily life. We always choose materials designed to withstand our region’s weather extremes, keeping your outdoor fireplace beautiful and functional for years to come.
In most cases, yes—you’ll need permits when adding a roof to your outdoor fireplace. Each community typically has its own rules, especially throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
Permits can include building permits for the structural components, electrical permits for lighting or outlets, or plumbing permits if your setup includes gas lines or water features. And if you’re installing a wood-burning fireplace, you can bet there will be fire safety inspections, too.
Usually, you’ll need to submit detailed design plans, pay application fees, and schedule inspections throughout the construction process. The final step is usually a comprehensive inspection upon project completion.
Sound complicated? It doesn’t have to be! At Dube Property Maintenance & Hardscaping, we handle the permitting process for you, making sure your new outdoor fireplace with roof meets all local codes. That way, you can relax and focus on picking out your favorite patio chairs.
Safety first! Generally speaking, your outdoor fireplace with roof should be positioned at least 10 feet away from your main house structure. However, we recommend a distance of around 25-30 feet for added safety and comfort.
You’ll also want to make sure there are no overhead obstacles. Allow at least 3 feet of clearance above the chimney to any overhanging branches, roofs, or other structures. Side clearances of at least 10 feet from nearby trees, shrubs, or other combustible materials are also essential.
Specific distances can vary depending on local building codes, fireplace type (wood-burning vs gas), and the materials you’re using. At Dube Property Maintenance & Hardscaping, we always double-check local regulations to ensure your outdoor living space is both safe and compliant—so you can enjoy your cozy retreat worry-free.
You bet! One of the biggest perks of having an outdoor fireplace with roof—especially here in New England—is that it makes your backyard usable all year round.
In spring and fall, when evenings tend to get chilly, your covered fireplace is perfect for gathering with friends, family dinners, or simply sipping a cup of hot cocoa. And don’t worry about those spring showers; your roof will keep you dry and comfortable!
In summer, a roofed outdoor fireplace area gives you shade during the day and provides a cozy spot for evening grilling and entertaining. With cooking grills or a pizza oven built in, summer dinners outdoors can become your family’s favorite tradition.
Winter? Absolutely! Even when there’s snow on the ground, your fireplace becomes a warm and welcoming centerpiece. The roof structure keeps snow and ice away, and you might even consider adding partial walls or windbreaks for extra warmth. Imagine roasting marshmallows with the kids or sipping mulled wine beside a crackling fire while the snow falls gently around you—pretty tempting, isn’t it?
Year after year, our customers from Methuen to Andover tell us their outdoor fireplace with roof quickly becomes their favorite “room” of the house.
An outdoor fireplace with roof isn’t just an addition—it’s a change. At Dube Property Maintenance & Hardscaping, we’ve worked with families and homeowners across Massachusetts and New Hampshire, helping them turn their outdoor spaces into inviting retreats. There’s something truly special about gathering around a warm, crackling fire under a cozy shelter, watching the seasons unfold comfortably in your own backyard.
Throughout this guide, we’ve covered all the essentials to help you create the ideal outdoor fireplace with roof. Remember to design your space according to your lifestyle—whether you’re envisioning laid-back family evenings, lively gatherings with friends, or quiet moments enjoying a cup of coffee outdoors. Purposeful design makes all the difference.
Quality materials are another key to a successful, long-lasting outdoor living area. New England weather is famously unpredictable, so investing in durable, weather-resistant, and fire-safe materials pays off in the long run. Choose materials like stone, brick, cedar, metal roofing, and marine-grade stainless steel to protect your investment.
Safety considerations are non-negotiable. Correct chimney height, proper ventilation, and adequate clearances from your home and other structures are vital. Remember the rule of thumb—your chimney needs to extend at least 3 feet above your roof structure for wood-burning fireplaces. This keeps everyone safe and ensures you can enjoy your outdoor space worry-free.
And let’s talk seasons! A thoughtfully designed outdoor fireplace with a roof is truly a four-season addition. You’ll enjoy it on cool spring evenings, mild summer nights, crisp fall afternoons, and even snowy winter gatherings. Extend your time outdoors, comfortably and stylishly, month after month.
It’s also important to think about how your outdoor fireplace with roof complements the rest of your landscape. Create a cohesive and inviting outdoor atmosphere by thoughtfully integrating your new structure within your existing yard and home design. It’s about creating a natural flow that invites relaxation and enjoyment.
At Dube Property Maintenance & Hardscaping, we take pride in helping homeowners just like you improve their outdoor spaces. Our professional team brings experience in landscape installation, construction, and hardscaping to every project. From initial planning to final finishing touches, we’re here to make your outdoor fireplace dreams a reality.
If you’re ready to explore how an outdoor fireplace with roof can transform your backyard into your favorite “room” in the house, we would love to chat about your project.
For more inspiration and ideas, be sure to visit our Custom Outdoor Fire Pit Builder at Dube Property Maintenance & Hardscaping page. We’ll help you craft the perfect space that not only improves your daily life but also potentially boosts your home’s value by up to 15-20%.
With thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and a warm, inviting space you’ll treasure for years, an outdoor fireplace with roof is one of the best investments you can make in your home—and your happiness.
