Fireplace Lowdown

Gorge Stone Fireplace Surround

If you like the look of natural stone fireplaces, then you'll probably dig this "Gorge Stone" surround. Here's the kicker though: it's not made from stone at all.

The veneer is made from recycled concrete and sand. 

"Formed to resemble natural Columbia River basalt, Gorge Stone has been created as an earth-friendly alternative to stone veneer products."

It can be used for retaining walls, decorative stone walls, and--of course!--fireplaces. 

You can get square and rectangular "stones" to offer variety, and the veneer thickness ranges from 1.5" to 3".  Since it's not real stone, you might even be able to install something like this on your existing fireplace--just in case you're looking for a face lift without a huge tear-down remodeling job. 

More information at Gorge Stone.

Ball-o-Fire Fire Pit Keeps Sparks from Flying

If you've been thinking about buying a fire pit, but you've hesitated because you've got a lot of trees, or the pit would go near the house, and you're worried about sparks flying out and lighting something on fire, the Ball O' Fire firepit may be a practical option for you. 

The Landmann USA Ball O Fire Firepit has a 360 degree screen that will keep sparks from getting out, so you won't need to keep such a close eye on it while the family is cooking wieners and marshmallows.  The trees need not cringe as sparks shoot up into their leaves. 

And, if you can believe product descriptions, it may look cool at night too:

It "lights up your gathering area with a mystical 'ball o' fire' that appears to float in midair at night."

It costs less than $200 at Northern Tool:

Landmann USA Ball O Fire Firepit

Tiki-Style "Firebowl" Is Fun for Outdoor Entertaining

While you could argue that nobody needs a tiki-themed firebowl... a firebowl is just fun. 

If you're big into outdoor entertaining, and you've already got the prerequisite tiki torches, this guy just takes it to the next level. 

"Bring the Hawaiian Tropics to your own backyard with the King Luau Firebowl! Made with fire-proof materials and emitting 30,000 BTU’s, this island inspired firebowl will keep your patio warm with style."

It burns liquid propane gas and comes with a battery-operated igniter, so it's as easy to light up as a gas-powered barbecue grill. 

Alas, the tacky tiki look doesn't come cheap.  This guy costs $520 at Patio Shoppers.