Charter One Realty Blog

When debating whether to choose a gas fireplace vs. a wood fireplace, there are many factors to consider. Whether you’re building a brand new home, or updating a fireplace you already have, each option has it's pros and cons, so you want to make the right decision for your lifestyle.

First, think about your existing fireplace setup. If you have a current fireplace, what is the setup, and can it be easily converted? Depending on which type you prefer, you may need to hire contractors to build or convert it to the type you want. The cost will play a major factor in a fireplace renovation regardless of type, but note that a gas installation is typically higher than a wood-burning fireplace insert because you must run gas lines.  

If you’re building a new home, do you want just one fireplace, a dual-sided fireplace to make a statement in two rooms with just one unit, or multiple fireplaces, like indoor and outdoor? Since you know gas is costlier, the number of units you want in your new home may suggest going with the more cost-effective option.

Finally, consider your intended use of the unit(s). Do you want easy and efficient heat for several months of the year? Or is the fireplace less used and more of a design element in your home? 

Below we are breaking down the intricacies of each type of fireplace. We hope this helps you with your shopping!

Are Gas Fireplaces Better?

One of the main selling factors of gas fireplaces vs. wood-burning fireplaces is the easy maintenance of gas. Since they don’t require the burning of wood, they also have less cleaning maintenance. You do not have to worry about buying or foraging and splitting firewood, nor must you tend to the fire to ensure it’s burning properly.

Another big selling point of a gas fireplace is the simplicity and immediate result. During colder months when you want to turn the fireplace on right away, it’s as easy as a push of a button. It is also simple to control the level of heat the fire sends into your home, usually with a switch or a remote. 

Gas Fireplace Setup

Oftentimes, gas fireplaces can go in any room in the home, as a chimney isn’t necessary to operate a burning fire. If the existing setup isn’t gas, then expect a lot of cost to set up this low-maintenance option. Professionals will have to run the gas to the fireplace, and construct the updated element to code to ensure safety. 

Special Features of a Gas Fireplace

Gas fireplaces are typically contained by a glass enclosure. Child locks are a common feature on wall-mounted controls. Maintenance is typically limited to an annual checkup. When designing for the new fireplace, there are many background brick styles and designs to choose from, and the logs can range from realistic looking logs to glass beads or stones. From fans (to control heat output) and pilot lights and battery backups, a gas fireplace can be one of the most custom elements in your home. 

Is a Wood Burning Fireplace Better?

Adding a wood-burning fireplace in your home will undeniably contribute an authentic, traditional and rustic element. If you consider one of the best things about a fire to be enjoying the smell, then a wood burning fireplace is likely the best option for your home. 

If your home is already outfitted with a wood-burning fireplace but you want to upgrade, you can do so without changing to gas! If you currently don’t have a gas line running to your home, it may be best to stick with the current setup based on cost. New wood-burning inserts and a hearth makeover might do just the trick for creating the new fireplace of your dreams. 

Although the gas fireplace burns cleaner, a wood-burning fireplace insert is typically less expensive than installing a gas fireplace and is basically good to go upon setup.

Conclusion

Fireplaces are undoubtedly one of the coziest elements in the home. If you like tending to the fire and the smell of wood, choosing a wood-burning fireplace insert is the way to go. If you like simplicity and easy maintenance gas is for you! When deciding which type to install in your home, consider asking these questions:

1. Do you want your fireplace to be easy and low maintenance? 

2. Is your fireplace mostly for function or style?

3. What’s the current fireplace setup and the budget? Gas fireplace installation costs are usually more expensive than wood burning.

What would you choose between a gas fireplace vs. wood-burning fireplace? What are your likes and dislikes about normal use and maintenance about each type?

Share with us in the comments below!