The Burning Question: Woodburning or Gas Fireplace in Your New Home?

"Should we include a woodburning or gas fireplace in our new home?"

Custom home builders hear this question often. To help homebuyers make this decision, here are a few things to consider:

In many jurisdictions, the decision has been taken out of the homebuyer's hands. Many districts no longer allow installation of woodburning fireplaces, mainly because of air pollution issues.

First, check with your builder to see if woodburning fireplaces are allowed. If they are, here are some things to consider:

A woodburning fireplace:

Requires wood.

Since many areas have moved away from installing woodburning fireplaces, wood to burn can be harder to find, or more expensive.

Wood must be stored.

Storing wood in preparation for burning can attract insects or rodents. Homeowners must be careful not to store wood too close to the home, and take care to cover it and protect it from rain.

Is more expensive than a gas fireplace.

The firebox must be built to withstand the higher heat put out by burning wood instead of gas.

The fireplace must vent directly to the roof instead of through the wall, like with a gas fireplace. Thus the chimney must be taller.

Today's woodburning fireplaces usually consist of a woodburning insert with a metal flue that reaches the roof, but this is still more expensive than a gas fireplace.

A traditional masonry or brick chimney or firebox can add considerably to the cost.

Pollution issues.

With a gas fireplace, there aren't nearly as many emissions or smoke affecting air quality.

For those who do have woodburning fireplaces, there are many days when they cannot light a fire due to air pollution issues.

Provides fewer decorating or location options.

Because a gas burning fireplace does not have to vent straight up, there are many more options of locations.

A gas fireplace on the second floor of the home does not have to be directly above the fireplace on the first floor.

Also, if desired an entertainment center can be built directly above the fireplace as seen here.

Ask your builder what the best option is in your area. Take them the floor plan you're considering, and discuss your budget and desires. n