Marple's Hometown Monthly Magazine
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Expert Contribution

A Comparison of Gas-Log and Wood-Burning Fireplaces

Gas fireplaces first came about as an alternative to wood-burning fireplaces, not as a means to  replace them. However, gas fireplaces have become increasingly popular as convenience has become a major factor for consumers. While gas fireplaces cannot mimic the natural crackling and popping attributes of a wood-burning fireplace, a gas fireplace provides an easier, safer and cleaner way to enjoy a fire.

The first element of a fire is the kindling, which must be gathered and then lit. Next comes positioning the logs on the grate and waiting for them to catch fire from the kindling. Most people do not want to get involved in that process and this is why a lot of wood-burning fireplaces sit dormant. Though there may be a general belief that gas fireplaces don’t compare to wood-burning in terms of appearance, that isn’t always true. Gas fireplaces offer a level of ambiance and realism comparable to wood. The hand-painted ceramic logs give an authentic feel of real wood, and with the amber glow it looks as if they are actually on fire. In fact, some gas fireplaces have been known to be mistaken for wood-burning fireplaces.

Gas fireplaces also offer more heat output and flexibility than burning wood. Most gas fireplaces produce a warm radiant heat, like the heat from a wood-burning fireplace, but more of it. Some gas fireplaces can even supplement the heat needed for your home. The temperature and flame appearance can easily be adjusted as well. Instantly increase or decrease the flame height to keep the room at a comfortable temperature while still enjoying the ambiance and atmosphere created from the gas fire. Also, gas fireplaces open up the doors to endless possibilities and styles.

Whether a home is traditional, contemporary or an in-between transitional décor, there is a gas fireplace to compliment any style. Even if a home does not have an existing wood fireplace, a gas fireplace can easily be added because no chimney is required. Lastly, gas fires burn clean. They do not give off smoke, and they don’t require an annual chimney cleaning or leave behind ashes to sweep up like wood-burning fireplaces do. Most gas fireplaces have remote options to control temperatures and set timers. Best of all, there is no waiting for the flames to die down. The simple push of a button on a remote or wall switch turns the fireplace off. So the next time you’re about to go outside and collect logs to start your fire, think about all the advantages a gas fireplace gives you. Chopping wood and gathering kindling will become a thing of the past.


About The Author

Fireplace Products
Scott Magness
Scott’s Fireplace Products
484-422-8334

Scott’s Fireplace Products, expertly managed by owner Scott Magness and formerly known as DeYoung’s Fireside Shoppe, was established in 1985 and has been responsible for providing outstanding products and services ever since. With expert support from Scott’s son Ray Magness, expertise includes gas log installations specialties, standard and custom glass enclosures, cast and ceramic fiber gas log sets (for both vented and vent-free applications), direct vent systems and vent-free fireplace systems. Scott has great knowledge to share regarding the many choices of fireplace accessories and related items for home and patio. Stop in to meet Scott and Ray.

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