Gas vs. Wood Fireplaces: Pros and Cons

Add value to your home and increase your comfort with the addition of a new fireplace! If your new dream home or remodeling project includes a fireplace, you have options. Whether you crave the crackle of a traditional wood fireplace or the convenience of a gas fireplace, Creative Energy is here to help you decide which is best for your home.

Things to Consider When Buying a Fireplace:

  • Ease of Use
  • Maintenance 
  • Efficiency 
  • Safety
  • Aesthetics

When it comes to choosing between gas and wood-burning fireplaces, the best solution is to review the key features of both. Below we have outlined some pros and cons to both unique designs, to help you determine which is best for your lifestyle.

Buying a Gas Fireplace For Your Home

You can’t beat the convenience of a gas fireplace. If you run a busy, no-nonsense household, a gas-burning fireplace may be ideal for you. Start heating your home with the flip of a switch, and never worry about having to stoke the fire or clean out ashes.

Pros To Gas Fireplaces

A gas fireplace requires very little upkeep, making the required maintenance minimal to none. Your gas fireplace can very easily be ignited with the flip of a switch and the temperature can be adjusted just as easily.

A natural gas burning fireplace has no embers or smoke, which could be a safer option for some households. Most gas-burning fireplace models will still work during power outages as well.

Cons To Gas Fireplaces

If you dream of a sitting by the cozy crackle of a fire, you won’t get this from a gas fireplace. Similarly, the traditional smell of a wood fire will be compromised if you opt for a gas-burning model. 

If your home is not already equipped for a gas fireplace, the construction required to install one can be pricey. Relying on your gas fireplace to heat your home may not be cost-effective, as natural gas can come with a high price tag.

Buying a Wood Fireplace For Your Home

If you love the idea of warming up by a crackling fire and enjoy the natural smells of burning lumber, a wood-burning fireplace is perfect for you. Unlike older fireplaces that lose heat through the chimney, Creative Energy’s wood fireplaces are all designed to keep the heat in your home while properly ventilating out excess smoke. This will help you cut your energy costs, lower your dependency on energy companies, and keep your home warm and safe.

Pros To Wood Fireplaces

The relaxing ambiance of warm flames and the comforting smell of a wood-burning fireplace is one of the biggest appeals to homeowners. Your wood fireplace will become a captivating focal point of your favorite space. 

One log of wood can heat a room for hours, making it incredibly cost-efficient. In the event of a power outage, your wood-burning fireplace will not be effective, allowing you to heat and light your home.

Cons To Wood Fireplaces

If you have little experience starting a fire by hand, a wood-burning fireplace could be a challenge. To ensure they are burning efficiently and safely, wood fireplaces can require a more knowledgeable user. 

The hands-on maintenance of a wood fireplace can deter some homeowners. Your wood fireplace and chimney are going to require regular cleaning and annual inspections by a professional.

Contact Creative Energy to Learn More About Buying a Gas or Wood Fireplace for Your Home

Whether you like a sophisticated and modern look, or a rustic mountain cabin feel, our expert staff at Creative Energy can help you find the fireplace of your dreams. Stop by our San Francisco Bay Area showrooms in San Rafael, San Mateo, and Concord. Or visit us online and custom design your own gas or wood fireplace today!