Gas Logs vs. Wood burning Fireplace: Who wins?

There are so many options for fireplaces these days. Whatever your preference and desire, there is one for you. So the question then is, gas logs vs wood burning. Let us look at the pros and cons of each. This will give you a better understanding of what to expect with your purchase. Making an educated decision will bring you years of enjoyment.

Gas Logs

Pros-

•  Reviews – Our experience is that gas logs are very easy to use and much cleaner.
• Convenience – Easy to use. A turn of a switch and you have a fire. 
• Maintenance and Upkeep – Clean the glass and call upon us to check on the calibration when needed.
• Custom Units – Many different options to choose from. From state-of-the-art contemporary to old-world traditional look. Instead of installing a modern linear fireplace, you can choose a system that mimics a classic.
• Safety – Proper installation is required, but gas-log fireplaces are generally safe to use, especially compared to wood burning fireplaces.
• Environmental Impact – Gas log fireplaces have a mixed environmental impact. They are generally cleaner than wood burning options as they produce fewer particulate emissions and other pollutants. 

Cons- 

• Poor heating efficiency – Most of the heat escapes up the chimney. They require an existing, functional chimney and should not be relied on as a primary heat source.
• Requires an existing chimney.
• Soot buildup – Although cleaner than wood, you still get soot buildup on the glass. 
• Not a true wood fire – You won’t get the crackle found with a woodburning fireplace. 
• Cost – It may be costlier to run. Log sets can cost anywhere from $200 to $3000, depending on your desire, quality, size, and features.

Wood Burning Fireplace

Pros-

• The ambience is unmistakable. The crackle, pop, and smells of a wood burning fireplace can’t be beat.
• Intense heat – Wood-burning fires offer intense heat enough to heat an entire room or even a home.
• A wood burning fireplace can be used as a primary heat source.
• Cost-effective – The initial installation cost for a wood burning fireplace is often lower than a gas model.
• Focal point. A well-built wood fireplace acts as a natural and attractive focal point in any room.

Cons-

• Yearly maintenance is required to keep a well-functioning and safely running fireplace.
• Need for storage of wood.
• Regular maintenance is needed to keep your chimney structurally stable. 

The choice is yours. Now that you have a good idea as to what to expect, contact Felgemacher Fireplace Shop to learn more about the different options, whether it is gas logs or a woodburning fireplace.

When you are ready for your annual inspection and chimney sweep, call Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney. We are a third-generation chimney and fireplace company, dedicated to giving you the best quality and craftsmanship in Western New York. We currently look at over 2000 chimneys each year and can give you the confidence that we are educated on every aspect of your chimney. Our owners are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America, National Fireplace Institute, and National Chimney Sweep Guild, yielding the highest quality of expertise for our customers.