The decision to install an outdoor fireplace usually comes down to gas vs. wood.
Thinking of installing an outdoor fireplace or fire pit for the summer? An outdoor space to cozy up to on summer evenings could be the perfect addition to your yard.
When it comes to your outdoor fireplace or fire pit, there are many options available, such as outdoor fire pits, outdoor gas fireplaces, outdoor propane fireplaces, and outdoor wood burning fireplaces.
While these options all have their benefits, they also have their cons as well. Follow our quick guide below to find out which option is the right one for you.
Outdoor Natural Gas Fireplaces and Fire Pits
Pros:
Since gas fireplaces light instantly, they emit warmth almost immediately. They don’t require the length building process, like wood burning fireplaces do. Additionally, gas fireplaces are more efficient than wood burning fireplaces.
Gas fireplaces have permanent installation and are used to zone heat to keep certain outdoor areas warm. They also require minimal maintenance, with no ash or soot to leave behind a mess.
As they don’t require electricity, gas fireplaces will stay on and continue to burn so long as gas is supplied. They don’t require the hassle of propane tank replacement. Similarly, you can turn off a gas fireplace at the press of a button!
Cons:
Gas fireplace installation tends to be more expensive than a wood burning fireplace, which can include running a gas line to the desired location. You should also get an annual inspection of your gas fireplace to make sure it’s working properly.
Additionally, outdoor gas fireplaces lack the ambiance of the smell and crackling noise of the wood burning fireplace.
Outdoor Propane Fireplaces and Fire Pits
Pros:
Since outdoor propane fireplaces are portable and require minimal installation, they can be especially convenient. Most propane tanks are small and easy to transport, which means the fireplace is also typically easy to move.
Unlike wood burning fireplaces, there’s no cleanup necessary and no smoke with this option. Additionally, the propane tank is also easy to hide for aesthetic purposes.
Cons:
Obviously, these fireplaces require a propane tank. Since the tank will run out of propane eventually, this can affect your outdoor fire experience. It’s also usually more expensive to supply propane compared to using an outdoor gas fireplace.
Outdoor Wood Burning Fireplaces and Fire Pits
Pros:
It’s true; wood burning fireplaces are unbeatable in terms of ambiance. They also continue to burn, giving you a warm source of light, even if your electricity goes out or gas is empty.
Wood burning fireplaces also grant you the option to choose from various types of wood to burn; some burning much longer than others.
Cons:
Wood burning fireplaces require, well, wood of course. Therefore, you must store firewood in a dry location and keep an ample supply of it.
Additionally, this type of fireplace doesn’t automatically turn off like other types of fireplaces.
Wood burning fireplaces also can’t be left unattended, as they can start forest and house fires otherwise.
Additionally, they require annual maintenance and regular inspections that can affect insurance premiums. Lastly, these fireplaces aren’t nearly as efficient as other forms of fireplaces.
Regardless of Your Choice for an Outdoor Fireplace, Supreme Fireplace & Hearth Can Help
From outdoor gas fireplaces to propane fire pits and wood burning fireplaces, the choice is yours at Supreme Fireplace & Hearth. Making the decision between gas vs. wood for your outdoor fireplace has never been easier!
We can design and install the perfect outdoor fireplace for you; visit our showroom to see our fireplace models in person, or contact us today to learn more!
