28Feb
Your Guide For Choosing
Did you know that both the fireplace and the chimney were invented in the 17th century? People had obviously been using fire far before that time, but never before had they dared to bring fire into their homes to keep them warm when the temperatures dropped.
If you want a real fireplace, you might be wondering whether a wood vs. gas fireplace is right for you. Let’s start by exploring how these two fireplaces work.
How Do Fireplaces Work?
When comparing a wood with a gas fireplace, a wood fireplace is perhaps the most traditional option. All you have to do is throw in some wood and maybe some lighter fluid or newspapers.
A gas fireplace involves both an exhaust and a combustion element. So, once you turn on your gas fireplace, the gas will ignite and you will, again, be able to enjoy the fire.
What Is The Life Expectancy Of a Gas Fireplace?
Gas fireplaces can actually last a very long time as long as you take care of them. Gas fireplaces may last as long as 15 years.
However, this is only if you keep them maintained. If you let soot build up in the chimney or let it otherwise fall into disrepair, you may need to replace it earlier.
What Is The Life Expectancy Of a Wood Fireplace?
When choosing a fireplace, you will find that the life expectancy of both gas and wood fireplaces is similar. For wood fireplaces, you will need to clean them regularly to keep them in good shape.
And, if your fireplace is made of sturdy materials like brick, your fireplace might last forever. If not, it might last between 10 and 20 years.
Is a Gas Fireplace Safer than Wood?
While it may sound counterintuitive, gas fireplaces are indeed safer than wood fireplaces. Wood fireplaces have the risk of spitting embers or hot chunks of wood into your home which could cause a fire.
Since gas fireplaces don’t involve debris of this kind, you won’t have to worry much about a lack of safety.
Can A Gas Fireplace Heat Up A House?
A gas fireplace is actually a very good option if you want a fireplace that will heat up your entire home without any problems. Gas fireplaces are also very efficient compared to wood fireplaces.
With a wood fireplace, you’ll have to wait for some time before the wood starts to burn and heat up. On the other hand, all you have to do is push a button on your gas fireplace and it will heat up your home in no time at all.
How Customizable Are Fireplaces?
Fireplaces are more customizable than you might expect. The façade of the fireplace is perhaps the most customizable part.
You can make your fireplace look rustic by adding some decorative brick or stone. You can also make it look modern, depending on your preferences.
Gas Fireplace Customization
Since you don’t need to bother throwing wood into a gas fireplace, you have a lot of customization options. For example, you can put your gas behind glass so it can effortlessly illuminate your home.
You can also add LED lights, a cooling system, and more. The possibilities are endless.
Wood Fireplace Customization
Before the process of fireplace installation begins, you can tell your fireplace centre in Ottawa, what you’re looking for from your customized wood fireplace. Maybe you want your fireplace to look rustic and want it to be surrounded by dark wood or stone.
Or, you want it to look brighter and have it without any frames so nothing will get in the way of its light.
Which Type Of Fireplace Is More Efficient?
Gas fireplaces tend to be more efficient. After all, you won’t have to bother with buying firewood and then throwing the logs into the fire.
You also won’t need to keep poking at the logs. You just need to press a button.
Which Type of Fireplace Brings More Cosiness?
Wood fireplaces tend to be cosier. As the wood burns, you can smell the aroma of the logs, and you are reminded of the forest.
Since gas burns clean, you won’t get this level of comfort.
Gas Fireplace Pros And Cons
The benefit of a gas fireplace is that it is much cleaner than a wood fireplace. You won’t have to deal with charcoal or wood splinters.
On the other hand, gas fireplaces may not give you the cosy atmosphere that you might want. This is because most gas fireplaces tend to have a more modern feel.
Wood Fireplace Pros And Cons
The big benefit of a wood fireplace is that it gives you the same warmth as camping in the woods. The crackling of the wood is very atmospheric and a gas fireplace can’t compare.
However, wood fireplaces can be a pain to clean. If you don’t clean them, they might not last as long as you need them to.
Comparing The Cost
Wood fireplaces tend to be more expensive than gas fireplaces by thousands of dollars. Wood fireplaces range from $8,000 to $20,000 or more.
On the other hand, gas fireplaces are between $3,000 and $7,000. Keep this in mind if you have a tight budget.
Comparing The Maintenance
Wood fireplaces tend to need more maintenance. This is because burning wood can get quite messy.
This is not to mention the ash you will need to sweep up. On the other hand, gas fireplaces burn cleanly.
Is There A Difference in Installation?
When it comes to wood and gas fireplace installation, there are not many differences. However, with a gas fireplace, you will need to get a gas line attached.
On the other hand, wood fireplaces may be a bit harder to install, especially if you use bricks.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice of a fireplace is up to you. If you have a tight budget, you may want a gas fireplace.
On the other hand, if you want a warmer atmosphere, try a wood fireplace. You will need to decide which fireplace best fits your lifestyle.
Choosing a Wood vs. Gas Fireplace
Deciding between a wood vs. gas fireplace can be tough. Both have their pros and cons. Once you’ve made your decision, the next step is finding the right fire for your home. That’s where we can help; we carry a wide range of wood, gas, and electric fires, and offer expert installation too.
If you are interested in installing either a wood or gas fireplace in your home, contact us here.