Gas vs. Wood Fireplaces – Which Sparks Your Style?

There’s no question that a fireplace adds a cozy, warm aspect to your home. In the colder months, it can supplement heating costs; while in the warmer months when you aren’t actively using it, it can add character to any living space. Today, there are several options to choose from if installing a fireplace. 

Every fireplace option comes in many different styles to suit homeowners needs — but which is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at two popular options: a gas fireplace and a wood fireplace. 

What’s The Main Difference Between Wood and Gas Fireplaces?

Both options provide a chimney with a firebox to heat your home. Beyond that, ease, maintenance, and aesthetic greatly differ. Wood fireplaces provide the stereotypical crackling fire that is timeless. However, it does require buying or cutting regular firewood. On the other hand, gas fireplaces can be turned on with the click of a button or turn of a dial. However, you sacrifice the smell and crackle of a traditional fireplace — which could be a pro or con depending on the homeowner. Still unsure which route to go? Below are a few more differences.

Wood Fireplaces

On top of the traditional atmosphere of a wood-burning fireplace, wood fireplaces also come with the benefit of providing heat to your home completely independent from electricity. This means that even if you lose power, you can still have heat and a source of light which is particularly nice if you live in a remote and/or heavily-snowed area. But another potential downfall for wood fireplaces is the required regular upkeep and maintenance. It can be costly but worsens if neglected which hints to homeowners its importance.

Gas Fireplaces

Not a fan of supplying firewood, tending to a fire, and the regular maintenance required for wood fireplaces? As mentioned, gas fireplaces provide a quick on and off. They also add the benefit of being very efficient which is nice for your heating bills. But another potential downfall is that the upfront cost could be pricey if you don’t have a gas line present currently. A chimney professional can walk through different options and price points based on your needs and budget.

Style and Aesthetic Options

Recently, there have been improvements and advances on the variety of style choices for both gas and wood fireplaces. If you love the traditional look and feel of an ornate wood burning fireplace, you can add a gas insert to provide the ease often associated with gas fireplaces. On the other hand, if you want a modern look and feel with the traditional wood burning aspect, there are more modern options now too. 

Ready for a new fireplace? Call Felgemacher Fireplace

Felgemacher Fireplace is a third-generation fireplace company dedicated to providing the best quality service to Rochester, NY; Buffalo, NY, and surrounding residents. We have over 60 years of experience in chimney repairs, cleaning, rebuilding, maintenance, and fireplace installation.

If you’re in or around Buffalo, call 716-907-4914; if you’re in or around Rochester, call 585-308-4914.