What Are You Building?

If you are going through a major reconstruction project in your home, you may have decided that you want to have a fireplace installed. However, after looking over all available options, you may be in the process of deciding on whether you want a traditional wood burner or a gas setup. If so, ask yourself the following questions to help get you started when trying to decide on whether you want a wood-burning or gas fireplace.

1.  Do You Want Your Fireplace for Looks or for Heating?

The first question you should ask yourself when deciding between a gas or wood-burning fireplace involves its purpose in your house. Are you wanting to add it for its look and warm appeal? Or, are you looking for an additional heat source for your home when the temperatures turn frigid?

If you are looking for the warm ambiance a fireplace has to offer, you may want to choose one that consumes wood. While a gas furnace can give off some of the same appeal, a wood burner will also have the sounds and smells of a traditional fireplace.

However, if you are looking for an additional heat source, you will find that a wood burner does not add much to the temperature of a room unless you are sitting right in front of it. For this purpose, a gas setup would better suit your needs.

2.  Are You Looking for Energy Efficiency?

Another question you can ask yourself when making your decision is about energy efficiency. Are you trying to find a more energy-efficient option for mood lighting and heat for your home? Or, does it not matter to you one way or the other?

If the energy efficiency of the fireplace is not an issue, a wood burner would be a good option. Just remember that you will have to buy the wood if you do not have a ready source on your property.

However, if you want an energy-efficient option, go with the gas setup. It burns natural gas that is relatively inexpensive compared to buying wood, and the gas also burns cleaner.

After asking yourself the above questions, you should be able to have a good start with deciding on whether you want a fireplace that burns gas or wood. If you are still undecided, speak with a contractor who installs fireplaces for personalized help with making a choice that best serves you and your family's needs or visit a site such as http://www.villagefireplaceandbbq.com.