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My Acre Journal

Guides for outdoor living

Practical guides and honest advice on outdoor fire, pizza ovens, greenhouses and outdoor fridges. Written by the people who install, live with and stand behind what we sell.

Latest guides

121 guides
  1. Bioethanol fireplace burning on an outdoor table with a fuel canister nearby in an Australian backyard Fire & Warmth Downsides of a Bioethanol Fireplace The four real downsides of a bioethanol fireplace: running cost, heat ceiling, fuel storage rules and what the flame is actually like. 29 Sep 2026 Read guide
  2. Bioethanol fireplace burning cleanly on an outdoor table in a normal Australian backyard Fire & Warmth Are Bioethanol Fireplaces Any Good A straight answer on whether bioethanol fireplaces are worth buying, covering heat output, running cost and fuel smell. 29 Sep 2026 Read guide
  3. Bioethanol fireplace and wood-burning fireplace side by side in an Australian backyard for comparison Fire & Warmth Bioethanol vs Wood Fireplace How a bioethanol fireplace compares to a wood fireplace on installation, cost and ambience, including the Ochre Living kit. 29 Sep 2026 Read guide
  4. Wood fire pit and bioethanol fire pit side by side on a suburban Australian patio for comparison Fire & Warmth Wood Fire Pit vs Bioethanol Fire Pit A side-by-side comparison of wood and bioethanol fire pits: running cost, cleanup, heat output and Total Fire Ban rules. 29 Sep 2026 Read guide
  5. Round concrete fire bowl burning on a paved courtyard at dusk Fire & Warmth Are Bioethanol Fireplaces Legal in the Northern Territory Yes, under the same national standard as every state. The NT's real point of difference is a dry-season fire calendar and no default strata... 26 Sep 2026 Read guide
  6. Rectangular bioethanol fire table with a linear flame on a timber deck Fire & Warmth Are Bioethanol Fireplaces Legal in Tasmania Yes, under the same national standard as every state. Tasmania carries the clearest local guidance of the three states covered in this series. 26 Sep 2026 Read guide
  7. Bioethanol fire bowl burning in a tidy Australian suburban backyard Fire & Warmth Are Bioethanol Fireplaces Legal in Western Australia Yes, under the same national standard as every state. What actually differs in WA is DFES's Total Fire Ban treatment of liquid fuel and... 26 Sep 2026 Read guide
  8. Solid stainless steel fire bowl with an open flame on a suburban patio at dusk Fire & Warmth Fire Bowl vs Fire Basket: What's the Difference A fire basket is an open wire cage for wood; a fire bowl is a solid vessel that suits bioethanol too. Which is which,... 24 Sep 2026 Read guide
  9. Seasoned split firewood stacked beside an outdoor fireplace with a lit flame Fire & Warmth Best Wood to Burn in an Outdoor Fireplace River Red Gum, Ironbark, Jarrah — which firewood actually suits an open flame, how dry it needs to be, and what to never burn. 24 Sep 2026 Read guide
  10. Bioethanol fire bowl with a clear glass wind screen in a tidy Australian backyard Fire & Warmth How to Clean Bioethanol Fireplace Glass A hazy bioethanol fire screen isn't soot, it's condensed residue that comes off with warm water and mild soap, or vinegar for a heavier... 24 Sep 2026 Read guide
  11. Fire bowl vs fire pit, a small elevated fire bowl on a stand in a courtyard corner Fire & Warmth Fire Bowl vs Fire Pit: What the Terms Actually Mean Fire bowl vs fire pit: the real distinction is shape and scale, not fuel or burner technology, and it changes how well a small... 7 Sep 2026 Read guide
  12. Are bioethanol fireplaces legal in Australia, a small bioethanol fire bowl on an apartment balcony Fire & Warmth Are Bioethanol Fireplaces Legal in Australia Are bioethanol fireplaces legal in Australia? Yes, under a mandatory ACCC safety standard, with a second layer of approval needed for apartments and rentals. 7 Sep 2026 Read guide
  13. Bioethanol vs electric fireplace for outdoor entertaining, a fire table with a linear flame on a timber deck Fire & Warmth Bioethanol vs Electric Fireplace for Outdoor Entertaining Bioethanol vs electric fireplace for outdoor entertaining: why a real flame's radiant heat outperforms simulated warmth once there's a breeze. 7 Sep 2026 Read guide
  14. Outdoor fireplace vs fire pit, a freestanding rendered fireplace with a chimney on a suburban patio Fire & Warmth Outdoor Fireplace vs Fire Pit: Which Suits Your Backyard Outdoor fireplace vs fire pit: a permanent structure versus something freestanding, compared on cost, heat and how settled your outdoor-fire habit already is. 7 Sep 2026 Read guide
  15. Fire pit vs chiminea comparison, a round steel fire pit burning on an Australian backyard patio Fire & Warmth Fire Pit vs Chiminea: Which Suits an Australian Backyard Fire pit vs chiminea for an Australian backyard: what real owners report about heat, smoke, cooking and durability, and where a bioethanol fire pit... 7 Sep 2026 Read guide
  16. Small outdoor fireplace idea for a courtyard, a compact fire bowl on a narrow paved patio near an apartment balcony Fire & Warmth Small Outdoor Fireplace Ideas for Courtyards and Balconies Small outdoor fireplace ideas for courtyards and balconies: match the fuel to the space, from flueless bioethanol pits and tables to a compact wood... 7 Sep 2026 Read guide
  17. A freshly cleaned bioethanol fire table on a tidy timber deck in a normal Australian suburban backyard at dusk Fire & Warmth How to Clean a Fire Table Wipe the surround after each use, clean the burner monthly, and wait the full 60 minutes before touching it. What to use, what to... 2 Sep 2026 Read guide
  18. Premium outdoor kitchen display at the Melbourne Home Show Fire & Warmth Our weekend at the Melbourne Home Show A weekend at the Melbourne Home Show: trade partners, new suppliers and the outdoor living trends worth talking about. 25 Aug 2026 Read guide
  19. A tidy suburban Australian backyard at dusk with a concrete fire table alight on a paved patio beside a brick and weatherboard home Fire & Warmth What To Look For In A Fire Table A practical checklist for choosing a fire table that holds up in Australian conditions: heat output, safety certification, materials and clearance, explained plainly. 15 Aug 2026 Read guide
  20. A concrete fire table alight on a paved patio in a normal Australian suburban backyard in late afternoon light Fire & Warmth What Is A Fire Table What a fire table actually is, how the EcoSmart bioethanol burner works, and why more Australian backyards are adding one. 15 Aug 2026 Read guide
  21. A concrete fire table with a glass wind guard alight on a suburban Australian patio at dusk Fire & Warmth What Fire Table Gives Off The Most Heat Every EcoSmart fire table runs the same fixed heat output. Here's what actually changes how warm one feels. 15 Aug 2026 Read guide
  22. A concrete fire table alight on a tidy suburban Australian patio beside outdoor lounge chairs Fire & Warmth How Much Heat Output Is Good For A Fire Table How much heat output you actually need from a fire table, and why EcoSmart's fixed 6 kW works differently to old BTU-tiered gas burners. 15 Aug 2026 Read guide
  23. Low coffee-height bioethanol fire table sitting level with a cushioned outdoor lounge on a suburban patio at dusk Fire & Warmth What Is The Average Height Of A Fire Table Ever sat down at a fire table and felt like you were dining with your ankles? EcoSmart's own range sits at coffee-table height: the... 11 Aug 2026 Read guide
  24. Square bioethanol fire table surrounded by outdoor lounge seating in a tidy suburban courtyard, showing its size and clearance, at dusk Fire & Warmth What Size Fire Table Do I Need Buying a Fire Table that's too big for your patio is a bit like squeezing a barbecue into a broom cupboard: technically possible, not... 11 Aug 2026 Read guide
  25. Bioethanol fire table with plain amber fuel bottles beside it on a paved suburban patio at dusk Fire & Warmth How Much Bioethanol Fuel Do I Need For A Fire Table Wondering how big a gas bottle you'll need under your new fire table? None at all. EcoSmart fire tables run on e-NRG bioethanol, not... 11 Aug 2026 Read guide
  26. Modern bioethanol fire table with a clean flame over dark fire glass on a paved patio in a tidy Australian suburban backyard at dusk Fire & Warmth What Fuel Do Fire Tables Use Nothing ruins backyard drinks faster than a fire table that won't light properly. So, what fuel do fire tables actually use? EcoSmart burners, the... 11 Aug 2026 Read guide
  27. Freestanding bioethanol fire table with no gas line, glowing beside outdoor lounge seating on a suburban patio at dusk Fire & Warmth How Does Bioethanol Compare To Gas For Fire Table Heating Choosing fuel for a fire table used to mean picking between propane and natural gas. For an EcoSmart fire table it's a different question... 11 Aug 2026 Read guide
  28. A bioethanol fire pit with a contained flame on a timber deck in a tidy Australian suburban backyard at dusk Fire & Warmth Can You Put a Fire Pit on a Deck? What's Safe in Australia Yes, you can put a fire pit on a deck with the right fuel and clearances. Here is what is safe on timber and... 11 Aug 2026 Read guide
  29. Round DIY fire pit built from stacked concrete blocks with a small wood fire on a paved patio in a tidy Australian suburban backyard at dusk Fire & Warmth How to build a DIY fire pit in Australia (and when to buy instead) How to build a DIY fire pit in Australia: cost, council rules, what to put in the bottom, a besser-block build, and when a... 7 Aug 2026 Read guide
  30. A concrete bioethanol fire table with lounge seating on a paved patio in a normal Australian suburban backyard at dusk Fire & Warmth How To Choose A Fire Table Choosing a fire table comes down to five things: your space, whether it's for indoors or outdoors, the size and heat output you actually... 3 Aug 2026 Read guide
  31. A cast-concrete fire table with a stainless steel burner and clear glass media in a tidy Australian suburban courtyard Fire & Warmth What Is The Best Material For A Fire Table Buying a Fire Table without checking the material first is a bit like buying outdoor cushions in white: brave, but risky in Australia. The... 3 Aug 2026 Read guide
  32. A premium travertine ethanol fire table burns with a long amber flame on a sheltered alfresco terrace at dusk, casting warm light across stone pavers and outdoor seating. Fire & Warmth How Warm Is A Fire Table How warm is a fire table, really? Short answer: EcoSmart's AB8 burner puts out 6 kW (21.56 MJ/h), enough to comfortably warm a zone... 3 Aug 2026 Read guide
  33. Rustic wood fire pit beside a modern gas fire table on a split Australian backyard entertaining space at dusk. Fire & Warmth What Is The Difference Between A Fire Pit And A Fire Table Bonfires or backyard luxury? A fire pit creates a rustic campfire vibe, while a fire table adds sleek style and dining convenience. Still undecided?... 3 Aug 2026 Read guide
  34. A bioethanol fire pit with a real flame used indoors on a console in a normal Australian living room Fire & Warmth Are Bioethanol Fire Pits Safe to Use Indoors? Bioethanol fires can be used indoors safely on an indoor-rated model, in a large-enough room, with ventilation and the correct fuel. Here is exactly... 3 Aug 2026 Read guide
  35. A bioethanol fire pit with a contained flame on a composite timber deck in a tidy Australian suburban backyard at dusk Fire & Warmth Will a Fire Pit Damage a Composite Deck? What actually damages a composite deck, how to protect it, and why a bioethanol fire pit is the low-risk choice for Australian decks. 3 Aug 2026 Read guide
  36. Concrete bioethanol fire bowl with a clean flame on a paved suburban patio at dusk Fire & Warmth Fire Pit Ideas: 15 Designs for Australian Backyards Fire pit ideas for Australian backyards, from sculptural concrete bowls to built-in linear burners. A smokeless, design-led guide for paved decks and courtyards. 26 Jul 2026 Read guide
  37. Rendered masonry outdoor fireplace with a chimney and live fire in a tidy suburban Australian backyard at dusk Fire & Warmth Outdoor Fireplace Ideas for Australian Homes Outdoor fireplace ideas for Australian homes, from built-in rendered masonry kits with a chimney to flueless bioethanol fireplaces for balconies and rooftops. 26 Jul 2026 Read guide
  38. Cast-concrete bioethanol fire pit with a live flame on a paved patio in a tidy Australian suburban backyard at dusk Fire & Warmth Best Fire Pit in Australia (2026 Buyer's Guide) The best fire pits in Australia for 2026, compared. Honest verdicts on the EcoSmart Pod 30, Pod 40, Stix, Mix 600 and Mix 850... 26 Jul 2026 Read guide
  39. Compact bioethanol fire bowl with a small flame on a tidy apartment balcony at dusk with a suburban view Fire & Warmth The Best Fire Pit for a Small Apartment Balcony A compact bioethanol fire pit is the balcony-friendly choice: no smoke, no embers, no flue. What works on an apartment balcony in Australia, and... 26 Jul 2026 Read guide
  40. Smokeless concrete bioethanol fire bowl with a clean flame on a tidy paved courtyard at dusk Fire & Warmth What Is the Best Smokeless Fire Pit? (And Do They Really Work?) Smokeless wood fire pits reduce smoke but never remove it. Only a bioethanol fire is truly smoke-free. Heat, decks, downsides and what to buy... 26 Jul 2026 Read guide
  41. EcoSmart Base 40 bioethanol fire table used safely indoors in a minimalist living room Fire & Warmth Are Bioethanol Fireplaces Safe? Yes, a bioethanol fireplace is safe when it is a certified model on the correct fuel, with sensible clearances and ventilation. Here is what... 17 Jul 2026 Read guide
  42. Close-up of the stainless-steel EcoSmart bioethanol burner inside the Pod 30 fire pit Fire & Warmth How Does a Bioethanol Fireplace Work? A bioethanol fireplace burns denatured plant alcohol in a stainless-steel burner, giving a real flame with no smoke, flue or gas line. Here is... 17 Jul 2026 Read guide
  43. EcoSmart Cosmo 50 bioethanol fire table warming a poolside terrace overlooking Sydney Harbour Fire & Warmth Do Bioethanol Fireplaces Give Off Heat? Yes. A bioethanol fireplace gives off real, usable heat, up to about 6 kW from a large burner, and with no flue more than... 17 Jul 2026 Read guide
  44. EcoSmart Manhattan 50 bioethanol fire table glowing on a tropical Queenslander deck at dusk Fire & Warmth How Much Does a Bioethanol Fireplace Cost to Run? A bioethanol fireplace costs about $2 to $7 an hour in e-NRG fuel, and fuel is the only cost. Here is what a litre... 17 Jul 2026 Read guide
  45. EcoSmart Mix 600 bioethanol fire indoors in a homely open-plan living room Fire & Warmth Bioethanol Fireplaces Indoors: An Australian Buyer's Guide An indoor bioethanol fireplace brings a real flame into the living room with no flue or gas line. Here is how to choose one... 17 Jul 2026 Read guide
  46. Friends roasting marshmallows over a propane fire pit for cooking at dusk Fire & Warmth Can You Cook On A Fire Table Can you cook on a fire table? Short answer: no. An EcoSmart bioethanol fire table is built for warmth and ambience, not food preparation,... 26 Jun 2026 Read guide
  47. Table fire pit outdoor setup beside a luxury firepit dining table at sunset Fire & Warmth How Do Fire Tables Work Ever wondered how a fire table produces a real flame with no gas bottle, no gas line and no smoke drifting across the patio?... 26 Jun 2026 Read guide
  48. Wide coastal alfresco entertaining area with a family gathered around a round fire bowl at dusk, overlooking bushland views and a glowing Australian sunset. Fire & Warmth What Is The Difference Between A Fire Table And A Fire Bowl Choosing between a Fire Table and a fire bowl is a bit like picking between a coffee table and a sculpture. The short answer:... 15 Jun 2026 Read guide
  49. Rain falls across a modern Australian alfresco patio at night while a rectangular gas fire table sits protected beneath a fitted black weatherproof cover, with a couple relaxing nearby overlooking a lit garden and distant water views. Fire & Warmth Does a Fire Table Need a Cover? Yes, once the burner has cooled for at least 60 minutes. What a cover actually protects, which fabric suits your table, and when to... 15 Jun 2026 Read guide
  50. Friends gathered around a premium rectangular Fire Table on a luxury Australian outdoor deck at dusk, with food platters, wine, and landscaped gardens surrounding the glowing flames. Fire & Warmth Why Are Fire Tables So Expensive Ever looked at a Fire Table price tag and done a double take? The short answer: you're paying for grade 304 stainless steel construction,... 15 Jun 2026 Read guide
  51. Wide nighttime view of a modern outdoor entertaining area with a rectangular gas fire table positioned safely between lounge seating and open deck space, surrounded by illuminated gardens and lawn. Fire & Warmth How Much Clearance Do You Need For A Fire Table A fire table needs a minimum of 600mm clearance from any fixed object and 2,000mm of overhead clearance if it sits under a roof,... 29 May 2026 Read guide
  52. A wide outdoor entertaining area at sunset with four adults gathered around a large rectangular gas fire table, cold beers and grilled lamb chops on the table, and a landscaped coastal garden surrounding the alfresco patio. Fire & Warmth How Long Do Fire Tables Last A quality fire table can last well over a decade with proper care, but Australian weather has a habit of testing that promise. Before... 29 May 2026 Read guide
  53. A couple relaxing beside a low rectangular gas fire table on a modern rooftop patio at sunset, with city skyline views and outdoor lounge seating. Fire & Warmth How High Should A Fire Table Be The ideal fire table height depends on how you actually relax outdoors. Low lounge styles suit laid-back drinks around deep seating, while taller designs... 29 May 2026 Read guide
  54. A group of men relaxing around a large gas fire table beneath a covered pergola at sunset, overlooking a landscaped backyard with outdoor lighting. Fire & Warmth Can You Have A Fire Table Under A Pergola Yes, you can have a fire table under a pergola, but only with proper ventilation, safe clearances and a fuel type that will not... 29 May 2026 Read guide
  55. A modern gas fire table glowing beneath a timber gazebo at dusk, with two men relaxing on outdoor lounge seating surrounded by tropical garden lighting. Fire & Warmth Can You Have A Fire Table Under A Gazebo Yes, you can have a fire table under a gazebo, but only with proper ventilation, safe clearances and a fuel type that will not... 29 May 2026 Read guide
  56. A modern rectangular gas fire table on a large timber deck at sunset, with a couple relaxing nearby and garden lighting glowing across the outdoor entertaining area. Fire & Warmth Can I Have A Fire Table On My Deck Yes, you can have a fire table on your deck, but only with the right heat protection, spacing and setup underneath it. An EcoSmart... 29 May 2026 Read guide
  57. Wide outdoor entertaining area with guests, wine and food beside a long gas fire table under a timber covered patio overlooking a garden. Fire & Warmth Can A Fire Table Go Under A Covered Patio Yes, a bioethanol fire table can go under a covered patio, and being ventless actually makes it a better fit for the job than... 29 May 2026 Read guide
  58. Luxury propane fire table under a covered Australian patio at sunset. Fire & Warmth How Safe Are Fire Tables Ever wondered how safe a fire table actually is? Short answer: an EcoSmart bioethanol fire table is very safe when it's used as designed,... 24 May 2026 Read guide
  59. Propane fire table on composite deck in a luxury backyard at golden hour, showing a stylish and safe fire pit table setup for composite decks. Fire & Warmth Are Fire Tables Safe On Composite Decks Wondering if fire tables are safe on composite decks? The short answer: yes, an EcoSmart bioethanol fire table sits comfortably on composite decking, provided... 24 May 2026 Read guide
  60. A luxurious outdoor patio featuring a sleek rectangular fire table, warm flames, and comfortable seating, creating a perfect space for outdoor relaxation and dining. Fire & Warmth Are Fire Tables Worth It Thinking about adding a fire table to your backyard? The short answer: yes, if you want real flame and genuine zone heating without the... 24 May 2026 Read guide
  61. Winter fire pit glowing on a luxury outdoor patio during a frosty evening Fire & Warmth Can You Leave A Fire Table Outside In Winter Can you leave a fire table outside all winter? Short answer: yes, most EcoSmart fire tables handle Australian winters easily with a proper cover... 24 May 2026 Read guide
  62. Outdoor propane fire table on a rain-soaked patio with water droplets and a partially fitted protective cover under an overcast sky. Fire & Warmth Can A Fire Table Get Wet Wondering if your shiny new fire table can handle a little rain? The short answer: yes, an EcoSmart bioethanol fire table's stainless-steel burner handles... 24 May 2026 Read guide
  63. A sleek bioethanol fire table burning clean, smokeless flames in a bright modern sunroom with large windows, indoor plants, and contemporary design. Fire & Warmth Can A Fire Table Be Used Indoors Thinking of bringing that cosy outdoor vibe indoors? The short answer: yes, an EcoSmart bioethanol fire table is genuinely rated for indoor use, which... 24 May 2026 Read guide
  64. A family gathered safely around a propane fire table on a spacious patio at dusk, with warm amber flames glowing in the centre, conveying a sense of outdoor safety and enjoyment. Fire & Warmth Are Outdoor Fire Tables Safe Wondering if fire tables are safe for your outdoor space? The short answer: yes, an EcoSmart bioethanol fire table is certified, self-contained, and straightforward... 24 May 2026 Read guide
  65. Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Canberra? Fire & Warmth Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Canberra? Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in Canberra? Learn the current rules, safety requirements and practical tips in this friendly how-to... 31 Aug 2026 Read guide
  66. Can I have a fire in my backyard in Victoria? Fire & Warmth Can I have a fire in my backyard in Victoria? Can I have a fire in my backyard in Victoria? Learn the current rules, permit requirements and safe burning tips in this practical guide... 31 Aug 2026 Read guide
  67. Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in South Australia? Fire & Warmth Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in South Australia? Can I have a fire pit in my backyard in South Australia? Find current rules, safety tips and practical guidance in this friendly best... 31 Aug 2026 Read guide
  68. Are you allowed to have a fire in your backyard in QLD? Fire & Warmth Are you allowed to have a fire in your backyard in QLD? Are you allowed to have a fire in your backyard in QLD? Learn Queensland rules, permits, fire bans and safe backyard fire practices in... 22 Aug 2026 Read guide
  69. Can I burn off in my backyard in NSW? Fire & Warmth Can I burn off in my backyard in NSW? Can I burn off in my backyard in NSW? Learn the current rules, permits and safety tips for backyard burning in this practical Australian... 22 Aug 2026 Read guide
  70. Are backyard fires legal in NSW? Fire & Warmth Are backyard fires legal in NSW? Are backyard fires legal in NSW? Find out what permits you need, where fires are allowed and how to stay safe with this practical... 22 Aug 2026 Read guide
  71. EcoSmart Mix 850 bioethanol fire pit in Bone concrete, alight, with the flame held in its stainless steel burner and black glass media around it Fire & Warmth How big can a fire be without a permit? How big can a fire be without a permit? Learn Australian rules, size limits and when to apply, with this practical guide for safe... 21 Aug 2026 Read guide
  72. Are fire pits allowed in backyards? Fire & Warmth Are fire pits allowed in backyards? Are fire pits allowed in backyards? Discover Australian rules, safety tips and permit advice before lighting a fire pit at home with this helpful... 21 Aug 2026 Read guide
  73. What are the different types of outdoor fire pits? Fire & Warmth What are the different types of outdoor fire pits? What are the different types of outdoor fire pits? Explore wood burning, gas and portable options in our friendly Australian buyer’s guide to choosing... 21 Aug 2026 Read guide
  74. What are the different types of fireplaces? Fire & Warmth What Are the Different Types of Fireplaces? What are the different types of fireplaces? Explore our handy list of gas, electric, wood burning and more options to find the right fit... 16 Sep 2026 Read guide
  75. How to maintain an outdoor fireplace? Fire & Warmth How to maintain an outdoor fireplace? How to maintain an outdoor fireplace? Discover Australian tips for cleaning, checking safety, protecting surfaces and keeping your fire ready year-round. 16 Sep 2026 Read guide
  76. Do outdoor fireplaces actually keep you warm? Fire & Warmth Do outdoor fireplaces actually keep you warm? Do outdoor fireplaces actually keep you warm? Discover how much heat they provide, what affects comfort and smart ways to stay cosy outdoors in... 16 Sep 2026 Read guide
  77. Does an outdoor fireplace need a chimney? Fire & Warmth Does an outdoor fireplace need a chimney? Does an outdoor fireplace need a chimney? Learn Australian safety rules, ventilation needs and practical installation tips in this friendly how-to guide. 16 Sep 2026 Read guide
  78. A rendered masonry outdoor fireplace with a steel flue burning a small fire against a Colorbond fence in a tidy Australian suburban backyard, with a paved courtyard, lounge chairs and a lemon tree in late afternoon light. Fire & Warmth Do You Need Council Approval for an Outdoor Fireplace? Portable outdoor fireplaces and fire pits need no council approval anywhere in Australia. Masonry fireplaces usually do. Here are the rules for all eight... 16 Sep 2026 Read guide
  79. Can I put a fireplace in my house in NSW? Fire & Warmth Can I put a fireplace in my house in NSW? Can I put a fireplace in my house in NSW? Learn the rules, approvals, safety requirements and practical tips for choosing and installing one... 20 Aug 2026 Read guide
  80. Ochre Living outdoor fireplace lit in an Australian backyard entertaining area at dusk under a dramatic sunset sky Fire & Warmth How to Build an Outdoor Fireplace: An Australian Buyer's Guide How to build an outdoor fireplace in Australia: the heaviest block is about 30 kg, so one person can do it in a weekend.... 20 Aug 2026 Read guide
  81. Can you install a fireplace yourself in Australia? Fire & Warmth Can you install a fireplace yourself in Australia? Can you install a fireplace yourself in Australia? Learn Australian safety rules, permits and best practice advice before starting your DIY fireplace project. 20 Aug 2026 Read guide
  82. Umbrellas How much clearance does a cantilever umbrella need? Short answer: A cantilever umbrella needs three clearances, not one. A 3.0 m Shadowspec Serenity sweeps a circle 5,946 mm across as it rotates,... 28 Sep 2026 Read guide
  83. Umbrellas Can you put an outdoor umbrella over a spa? Short answer: Yes, provided the umbrella over your spa or hot tub is a rotating cantilever or a wall-mounted model rather than a centre... 28 Sep 2026 Read guide
  84. Umbrellas Can you put an outdoor umbrella over a fire table? Short answer: No, not over a lit one. EcoSmart's manufacturer, MAD Design Group, requires 2,000 mm of clear air above the flame outdoors for... 28 Sep 2026 Read guide
  85. Umbrellas Do you need to bolt down a cantilever umbrella? Short answer: No, a weighted free-standing base is a legitimate alternative, but bolting down is what the wind rating is based on. Shelta states... 25 Sep 2026 Read guide
  86. Umbrellas Can you put an outdoor umbrella on artificial grass? Short answer: Yes, with a weighted free-standing base, which is the only mount that works on artificial grass without cutting into it. Nothing can... 25 Sep 2026 Read guide
  87. Umbrellas Can you put a cantilever umbrella on pavers? Short answer: Yes, on pavers, but not usually into them. A weighted free-standing base stands on a paved terrace perfectly well. Shadowspec's own base... 25 Sep 2026 Read guide
  88. Umbrellas Can you put a cantilever umbrella on a deck? Short answer: Yes, a cantilever umbrella can go on a timber deck by one of two routes. A surface plate bolts down through the... 25 Sep 2026 Read guide
  89. Umbrellas What wind speed is too much for a cantilever umbrella? Short answer: Close a cantilever umbrella once wind reaches Beaufort 5, which the Royal Meteorological Society puts at 29 to 38 km/h. On a... 22 Sep 2026 Read guide
  90. Umbrellas Can you leave an outdoor umbrella up all year? Short answer: Outside all year, yes. Open all year, no. A good outdoor umbrella is built to live outdoors and does not need to... 22 Sep 2026 Read guide
  91. Umbrellas Can you leave a cantilever umbrella out in the rain? Short answer: Yes, if it is closed. A cantilever umbrella is built to live outdoors and will sit through years of Australian rain without... 22 Sep 2026 Read guide
  92. Umbrellas Are cantilever umbrellas worth it? Short answer: Yes, where the shaded space has furniture in it and a centre pole would be in the way. No, where the shade... 22 Sep 2026 Read guide
  93. White and charcoal cantilever patio umbrellas side by side showing canopy colour contrast Umbrellas Best Colour for an Outdoor Umbrella for UV and Heat Reflection Does umbrella colour really affect UV protection and heat underneath the canopy? Here's what the data actually shows. 21 Sep 2026 Read guide
  94. Cantilever patio umbrella over a small courtyard dining table beside a timber pergola frame Umbrellas Umbrella vs Pergola for a Small Courtyard Does a pergola need council approval for a small courtyard, and is an umbrella the smarter shade choice? Here's the honest comparison. 21 Sep 2026 Read guide
  95. Cantilever patio umbrella and shade sail shading separate zones of a suburban paved patio Umbrellas Cantilever Umbrella vs Shade Sail A cantilever umbrella or a shade sail: which one actually suits your space, your budget and your local wind? Here's the honest comparison. 21 Sep 2026 Read guide
  96. Closed cantilever patio umbrella with a visibly bent rib on the frame Umbrellas How to Fix a Bent Umbrella Rib How to fix a bent umbrella rib: the difference between a straight-section break you can splint and a hinge break that needs a replacement... 18 Sep 2026 Read guide
  97. Cantilever patio umbrella frame with its canopy fabric removed during a re-canopy repair Umbrellas How to Re-Canopy a Cantilever Umbrella How to re-canopy a cantilever umbrella: Shadowspec's genuine replacement canopies, what a new one costs, and why most brands don't offer them. 18 Sep 2026 Read guide
  98. Cantilever patio umbrella canopy open in bright Australian sun, showing fabric colour Umbrellas Does Umbrella Fabric Fade in the Sun (And How to Stop It) Does umbrella fabric fade in Australian sun? Why solution-dyed acrylic like Sunbrella holds its colour for years, and what the warranty covers. 18 Sep 2026 Read guide
  99. Cantilever patio umbrella folded and fitted with a protection cover for winter storage Umbrellas How to Store a Cantilever Umbrella Over Winter How to store a cantilever umbrella over an Australian winter: dry the canopy, fit the Protection Cover, and the coastal step most guides skip. 18 Sep 2026 Read guide
  100. Cantilever patio umbrella being cleaned of mould and mildew in a normal Australian backyard Umbrellas How to Clean Mould and Mildew Off an Umbrella Canopy The exact bleach ratio Shadowspec uses to clean mould and mildew off an umbrella canopy, and the weekly habit that stops it starting. 18 Sep 2026 Read guide
  101. Cantilever umbrella base plate mounted flush into a paved patio Umbrellas How to Anchor a Cantilever Umbrella Without a Heavy Base Shadowspec's cantilever range fixes to deck, pavers, concrete or a wall through one of four marine-grade mounts, priced from $398, instead of a heavy... 15 Sep 2026 Read guide
  102. Octagonal cantilever umbrella shading a dining table in a normal Australian backyard Umbrellas Square vs Octagon Cantilever Umbrella: Which Shape Suits Your Table Shadowspec's cantilever umbrellas come in square and octagon canopies only. Here's how to match the shape to your table, seating count and wind exposure. 15 Sep 2026 Read guide
  103. Heavy round concrete umbrella base at the foot of a cantilever umbrella stand Umbrellas Concrete vs Water-Fill vs Sand-Fill Umbrella Base A solid concrete or steel base beats a fillable water or sand base for a cantilever umbrella. Here's why Shadowspec skips fillable bases entirely. 13 Sep 2026 Read guide
  104. Aluminium frame, ribs and joint hardware of an open cantilever patio umbrella Umbrellas Aluminium vs Steel Cantilever Umbrella Frame Aluminium frames resist coastal rust; steel doesn't. See why every premium cantilever umbrella, including Shadowspec, is built on aluminium, not steel. 13 Sep 2026 Read guide
  105. Close-up of a folded cantilever umbrella canopy fabric weave and stitching Umbrellas Sunbrella vs Standard Acrylic Umbrella Fabric Sunbrella is a brand of solution-dyed acrylic fabric. Here's the real tier gap against standard printed polyester, and which fabric Shadowspec canopies use. 13 Sep 2026 Read guide
  106. Round market-style patio umbrella over a small cafe table in a tidy Australian suburban courtyard Umbrellas Which Type of Outdoor Umbrella Is Right for You Cantilever, market, wall-mounted or commercial centre-pole: which outdoor umbrella type actually fits your space, budget and floor footprint. 10 Sep 2026 Read guide
  107. Large square cantilever patio umbrella shading an outdoor dining table for six in a tidy Australian suburban backyard Umbrellas What Size Cantilever Umbrella Do You Need Match the canopy to the table, not the other way round: cantilever umbrella sizing by seat count, mount type and the base weight each... 10 Sep 2026 Read guide
  108. Cantilever patio umbrella on a weighted base with concrete paver ballast in a tidy Australian suburban backyard Umbrellas How Much Weight Does a Cantilever Umbrella Base Actually Need A cantilever umbrella needs far more base weight than a centre-pole umbrella the same size, because the offset canopy fights a lever rather than... 4 Sep 2026 Read guide
  109. Cantilever patio umbrella catching a breeze over a timber deck dining setting in a tidy Australian suburban backyard Umbrellas What Actually Makes a Patio Umbrella Windproof A patio umbrella that actually resists wind depends on a vented canopy, ribs that flex, and a base weighted to the umbrella's footprint, not... 4 Sep 2026 Read guide
  110. How to stop a cantilever umbrella from swaying in the wind? Umbrellas How to stop a cantilever umbrella from swaying in the wind? How to stop a cantilever umbrella from swaying in the wind? Discover simple ways to secure your umbrella, improve stability and enjoy safer outdoor... 1 Sep 2026 Read guide
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