Which is Better – Gas or Wood Burning Fireplaces?

Picking sides is human nature. Whether you’re rooting for your favorite team in the Super Bowl, choosing between two options for dinner, or the recent Taylor Swift album, everyone has an opinion about the latest trends. Today, we’ll present both sides of the age-old fireplace debate: what’s better, gas or wood?

Which team are you on?

We’re sure that question invoked an immediate response from many of our readers. Those that prefer gas fireplaces often list the ease of use, lack of smell, and energy efficiency as their top reasons for their choice. Those that prefer wood will say the authentic sound, smell, and nature of the heat are their top reasons. And honestly, there’s nothing wrong with either opinion. Here at Dubuque Fireplace and Patio, we enjoy both styles of fireplace.

Pros of gas

Let’s start this debate with gas fireplaces. The positives of a gas fireplace are many. First, there is no need to go out and chop down your wood or find someone selling pre-cut bundles. You simply flip a switch and are ready to enjoy the warmth instantly.

Also, there is no waste to clean up after its use. This is also a safety perk and it eliminates significant creosote buildup.

Also, gas fireplaces can be used even when the power goes out. Since we mentioned power, gas fireplaces are also more energy efficient when compared to their wood-burning brethren.

Cons of gas

That seems like a glowing recommendation for gas fireplaces. While there are many positives, it’s also important to be aware of the not-so-positive aspects of using gas. Gas fireplaces are more expensive, both to install and run. They also are less “fun”, as you miss out on the crackling wood sounds, the smell of the wood as it burns, and the dancing flames.

Lastly, while you don’t have to deal with the care and cleaning away of creosote and other waste, there is still maintenance and upkeep involved when dealing with the gas lines and various components.

Pros of wood

Now, let’s talk about wood. When you envision relaxing around a warm, crackling fire with your family at the end of a long day, you likely picture a wood-burning fireplace. Why? It’s a time-honored tradition that has been loved for centuries. These fireplaces can also be used for warmth when the power goes out.

In addition, many families choose to partially heat their homes with their wood-burning fireplace during the winter, saving on heating bills.

Cons of wood

With all those positives, it seems like a no-brainer! However, there are some downsides to a wood-burning fireplace we want to go over. The first is the time involved. Not only do you have to chop the wood that you plan to use, but you also need to let it season (or dry out for 6 months before using).

If you choose to purchase it pre-cut, then you have to find someone that has bundles ready for purchase. Then, there is the matter of starting it and keeping it going.

There is no switch to flip here. It requires a little finesse to get a roaring fire burning. Another negative is they are less efficient than their gas-burning relatives because more heat escapes up the chimney instead of warming your space.

Dubuque Fireplace and Patio is here to help!

This is a debate that will go on for quite a long time. It’s unlikely one option will win out over the other. Rather, the answer to this question will always be, “whichever option best meets your needs.”

And regardless of your answer, our team is trained and qualified to care for both fireplace options. To schedule your yearly inspection or to get more info, call Dubuque Fireplace and Patio at 563-582-5156 or send us a message online.