No matter how modern we become, fireplaces will still remain one of the most in-demand amenities in our households. The only difference is – they are now more versatile than ever, with options such as wood, electric, and gas to choose from.
There’s a lot of debate going around as to which kind of fireplace is best to install in a home. While some prefer the cleanliness that comes with a gas fireplace, others love the authenticity and the natural element that a wood-burning fireplace offers.
If you are a homeowner who is on the fence about what kind of fireplace you should buy, we are here to help. In this blog, we are going to discuss the pros and cons of wood and gas fireplaces so that you can decide for yourself. Here we go!
Wood Fireplaces
Pros Of Wood Fireplaces
● The Fuel Is Cheap
Wood as a fuel is readily available to most people, except for perhaps those living in the city. Make sure that you have checked with a local wood supplier to see if there will be enough wood for your fire needs.
● Offers A Lovely Ambience
Nothing provides the experience of sitting against a fire like a wood-burning fireplace. The woodsy fragrance, along with the sound of a crackling fire offers great satisfaction and comfort to anyone sitting around.
● Choice Of Firewood
The best thing about a wood fireplace is that you can choose the firewood. You can burn woods with a particular scent such as applewood or mesquite.
Cons Of Wood Fireplaces
● Needs A Chimney
If your home doesn’t already have a chimney, it can be troublesome and expensive for you to install one. On top of that, chimneys also cause drafts that lead to higher utility bills.
● Smoke And Ashes Are Inevitable
Cleaning ashes and soot can be a tiring chore to do every day. Maintaining a wood fireplace not only requires immense hard work, but also needs your continuous attention as even a fire that has died down can be re-sparked.
● Requires Wood Storage
You will have to buy your own firewood, chop it, and store it in a proper place. You will have to wait until it dries out and is ready to burn.
● Requires Regular Sweeping And Inspections
Regular inspection and service are needed to keep a wood fireplace in good condition. Make sure to get your fireplace checked every six months by an expert.
Gas Fireplaces
Pros Of Gas Fireplaces
● No Debris Or Ashes
The maintenance of a gas fireplace is easy, as there’s no ash or soot to be cleaned up. The fuels used in a gas fireplace – natural gas and propane – are clean-burning fuels.
● No Chimney Needed
You don’t need a chimney for a gas fireplace. All you have to do is simply vent the exhaust to an external wall or roof.
● Simple To Use
With the flip of a switch or the push of a remote control button, you can easily turn your gas fireplace on. It is a good idea to choose a model that has a pilot light or allows manual lighting.
Cons Of Gas Fireplaces
● Lack Of Ambience
With the ceramic logs in your gas fireplace, you may not experience the full effect of a genuine fire. Also, the lack of crackling sounds or aromatic smells can be a letdown.
● Installation Of A Gas Line Is Needed
Installing a gas fireplace can be expensive, considering you need to have a gas line installed. It will require additional time and money.
● Possibility Of Gas Line Hazards
If there is a faulty gas line connection, it can be hazardous for you and your family.
If you need any kind of installation, inspection, or repair services for your fireplace, our experts at Rusty’s Fireplace & Chimney will be more than happy to assist. Call us at 540-338-1266.
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