There’s no doubt that a fireplace adds a sense of coziness to a home, especially during the harsh winter months. There are two main types of fireplaces that can be found in homes—wood-burning fireplaces and gas fireplaces. Whether you are looking to add a fireplace to your house, or you are shopping for a new home, knowing the pros and cons regarding wood fireplaces vs. gas fireplaces can be helpful.
Gas Fireplaces
Pros
- Simple operation. In general with gas fireplaces, you can flip a switch, and you’re good to go! This can be a far cry from wood-burning fireplaces, which require you to stack logs, use kindling and light it yourself.
- No chimney required. Whether you’re building a home from the ground up or purchasing a home, chimneys can be troublesome. They require regular cleaning, and their construction is more involved than that of the venting required for gas fireplaces.
- Clean burning. Whether you are using natural gas or propane, both are more environmentally-friendly fuels than wood, which can produce a significant amount of particulate pollution.
Cons
- A more synthetic feel. Though when it comes to wood fireplaces vs. gas fireplaces, wood causes more pollution, it also adds a bit of ambiance that gas does not. If you’re adamant on having the crackling sounds and smell of burning wood as part of your fireplace experience, then a gas fireplace may not be for you.
- Gas line required. If you’re adding a fireplace to your home, the installation of a gas line is something to think about in terms of time and money. In addition, gas lines can lead the way to gas leaks, which can be dangerous for anyone living in your home.
Wood Fireplaces
Pros
- Guaranteed operation. Gas lines can falter with power outages and pilot lights, but if you have a place to burn it and a way to light it, then wood will catch fire regardless.
- Less expensive fuel. Unless you live in the true heart of a big city, wood to burn in a fireplace shouldn’t be too hard (or expensive) to come by, especially if you have it available on your property.
- All of the ambiance. Crackling logs and fragrant wood makes for a great winter scene. It’s one of the pros of wood fireplaces vs. gas fireplaces for many people.
Cons
- Chimney required. Installing a chimney when adding a fireplace to a home or building a home from the ground up can be costly and time-consuming. Chimneys also require regular sweeping and inspections.
- Clean-up is more involved. Wood breeds ashes and soot that must be regularly cleaned from your fireplace—a burden for some in deciding between wood fireplaces vs. gas fireplaces. Wood also requires storage, which you may be lacking space for.
Use this guide to help you make your decision between wood fireplaces vs. gas fireplaces this winter and stay warm and cozy in the process!
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