Adding a gas fireplace insert or gas fireplace logs is a popular choice for homeowners looking to elevate their living space. Whether you're looking to refresh an existing fireplace opening or adding a new fire feature to your home, a propane or natural gas fireplace or log set might well be the way to go. If you've settled on adding a gas fire feature to your home but can't decide between a log set or fireplace insert, this guide is for you.
While the two types of fire features have quite a bit of overlap in application, there are some key differences that make each of them better suited for certain customers. In this article, we'll be breaking down the specific benefits of both gas log sets and fireplaces to help you decide which is right for you. At the end, you'll find links to buying guides specific to each product category to point you to the next step in your shopping journey.
Benefits of a Gas Log Set
Starting off, we'll examine why customers choose to add a gas log set to their homes. This is one of our most popular product categories and for good reason. Whether you're buying a gas log set for an existing fireplace or building out a new fire feature for your home, you'll be enjoying the following features and benefits:
Versatility
There are a huge variety of options available in our inventory. We carry a wide array of both ventless gas log sets that provide exceptional heating output and vented gas log sets that are more suitable for aesthetics-focused installs.
Ease of Installation
One of the primary drivers in the popularity of gas log sets is how easy they are to install. While having a gas line run should be done by a licensed gas plumber, once that's in place the rest of the installation can be easily completed by any competent DIYer.
Traditional Appearance
While many customers love the look of a real wood fire, many don't want to deal with the work and clean-up that they require. This is where a gas log set comes in handy. Because we carry only the best brands in the industry here at Fireplaces Direct, all of the log sets in our inventory feature realistic log designs, providing the natural look of a wood-burning fire without the hassle and mess.
Price
Of the two, gas log sets tend to be the more affordable option, so if you're working with a tighter budget, that's likely to be the way to go. Note that this is due to the fact that gas log sets require an existing hearth opening to be installed in.
Benefits of a Gas Fireplace
While gas log sets are a great choice for many customers, they're not always the best option, depending on your particular needs. If you're looking for something with a more permanent look, then a gas fireplace is probably the way to go. Whether you're looking for a direct vent gas fireplace or a ventless unit, we're sure to have a propane or natural gas fireplace insert that works for your home. Customers who purchase a gas fireplace unit do so for one or more of the following reasons:
Efficiency
Because of their enclosed design, gas fireplace units tend to be considerably more fuel efficient than other types of hearth. This has the dual benefit of saving you money on your gas bill and providing more reliable performance and heat output.
Finished Appearance
Another major selling point for prefabricated gas fireplaces is their polished look. Whether you choose a built-in, insert or wall-mount unit, you'll be getting a fireplace that looks clean and professional once installed. This fact makes gas fireplaces especially popular for those who are building a new home or undertaking a major room renovation.
Customizability
As mentioned above, gas fireplaces come in a variety of form factors and installation types. On top of that, the majority of the models we carry can be personalized with features like remote controls, LED accent lighting and a variety of decorative media such as logs and fire glass to suit your decor and tastes. It's effortlessly easy to find a gas fireplace that meets the needs of your space.
Should You Get a Gas Log Set or Gas Fireplace?
We've listed the benefits of each type of gas hearth above, showing that both gas log sets and gas fireplaces have their own particular strengths. The question of which you should buy will come down to the needs of your home and project. If you're still on the fence, ask yourself the following:
Q. Am I putting this gas feature in an existing hearth?
A. If so, we usually recommend a gas log set.
Q. Am I building a new home or renovating an entire room?
A. When building new or doing a major renovation, it creates the opportunity for a more permanent installation like a gas fireplace.
Q. Do I want a traditional or modern look?
A. For a more traditional fireplace appearance, we recommend a gas log set. For a more contemporary look, a gas fireplace may be better.
Looking for more info on gas log sets and gas fireplaces?
Gas Log Set Buying Guide
Gas log sets are decorative gas appliances that mimic a real wood-burning fire. Generally, gas log sets are used to update or renovate an outdated wood-burning fireplace and provide more modern features like remote controls or automatic ignitions.
How to Shop for a Gas Fireplace
When planning your gas fireplace project, there are many factors you'll need to consider to ensure your installation is completed to your satisfaction. To simplify the building process, we've gathered some of the most common questions we're asked during the shopping process.
