Gas vs. Wood-burning Fireplaces

This time of year, there’s nothing better than curling up to a cozy fireplace in the evenings. The warmth and ambiance a fire provides is second to none. If you’re considering building a home with a fireplace, you may be torn between the convenience of a gas fireplace and the sensory experiences offered by wood burning fireplaces. To help you decide which is right for your new home, let’s dive into a few pros and cons of each option.

Appearance

A wood-burning fireplace instantly evokes a cozy atmosphere. It adds the look, smell, and feel of a real fire to any room. For a traditional homey vibe, wood-burning fireplaces can’t be topped. Gas fireplaces have come a long way, though. Ceramic logs can mimic the look of real firewood, and variable height adjustment allows you to design the fireplace of your dreams. 

Price

The upfront cost of installing a wood-burning fireplace is more than gas options. Even when factoring in the gas line and hookup required for a gas fireplace, wood-burning still tends to be more expensive. There’s also the cost of firewood to consider. While a gas fireplace can increase your monthly gas bill, natural gas tends to be relatively inexpensive.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Wood-burning fireplaces require a lot of cleaning and maintenance. After each use, you’ll want to clear away ashes and unburned logs. Gas fireplaces, on the other hand, need annual inspections to ensure no debris has built up and no connections or valves are leaking. Either option will require a bit of extra work, but the effort is worth it.

Convenience

In terms of convenience, nothing beats a gas fireplace. With the flick of a switch, you can have a roaring fire illuminating the room. Conversely, wood-burning fireplaces need constant monitoring. The flue needs opening, kindling must be carefully placed, and wood must be kept close at hand to feed the fire throughout the evening.

Whatever your preferences for your home fireplace, Absolute Construction can help bring your vision to life. Tell us about the goals you have in mind and we can promise quality installations and spectacular service.