How do I Choose Between Traditional and Gas Fireplaces?

Although most modern homes feature central heating and cooling systems, many homeowners still seek the decorative and functional benefits of a fireplace. A fireplace gives a large living space a distinctive focal point, along with delivering auxiliary radiant heat. But today's options seem to run across two separate lines - the traditional woodburning fireplace and newer models which use natural gas. Both have advantages and disadvantages, so it might help to compare the fireplace systems side-by-side on several important issues. Traditional fireplaces use wood as their fuel source. Properly seasoned firewood is usually purchased in bulk, delivered to the site by truck and stored in a shed or under a protective tarp. The homeowner is responsible for carrying a supply of split logs indoors. Some grocery and department stores do offer small bags of firewood for use in fireplaces, but the overall cost is much higher compared to a bulk order. Woodburning fireplaces do benefit from the ...  more