A List of Pros and Cons from Your Trusted Chimney and Fireplace Company
Isn’t it magical to hear the crackling of the logs, take in the aroma of the burning wood, watch the flames dance and feel warm and cheerful just by being in a room with a lit fireplace? Wood has been used to light fires since prehistoric times, making it one of mankind’s most faithful friends. However, in modern times, thanks to the higher environmental awareness and stricter emission norms, wood burning fireplaces are slowly making way for gas or electric ones.
Your Philadelphia chimney and fireplace company has over 25 years of experience in the installation, maintenance and repairs for a wide range of fireplaces. If you are considering a wood burning fireplace, here is what you should know.
Pros and Cons of Wood Burning Fireplaces
- Benefits of a Wood Burning Fireplace: There is something unmistakably charming about wood burning fireplaces. Not only does it appeal to our sense of smell and sight, but the overall ambience it creates is also unbeatable.
- Even if your electricity goes out or your gas line has a problem, your wood burning fireplace will always remain functional, as long as you can find a safe, combustible fuel to add to the fire. Not only will it help to light up a part of your home, but you can also use the fireplace for emergency cooking, if the need arises.
- In addition to wooden logs, you have the option to burn pellets, wood chips, pine cones, brush clippings and grasses, all of which are sustainable, renewable and widely available.
- Depending on the type of woody biomass you choose, you can make your fire long burning, quick burning or even aromatic.
- Disadvantages of a Wood Burning Hearth: Wood burning fireplaces involve a fair amount of cost and effort. From fuel requirements and lighting the fire to maintaining the fireplace and ensuring safety, wood burning devices can be quite a handful. If you have a hectic lifestyle, you may want to look at other, low maintenance heating options.
- A traditional wood burning fireplace requires a chimney as well as regular inspection, sweeps and upkeep of a chimney. Lack of these regular inspections and maintenance will make your hearth unsafe.
- If you do not purchase firewood or fire starters, you have to chop and store the wood and ensure that it stays dry. This not only adds to the time and effort, but also increases your space and storage requirements.
- A wood burning fireplace without protective screens can be hazardous to your home. Moreover, the ashes of a wood burning fireplace can stay hot for as many as two to three days after the fire has been extinguished. You will need to stay vigilant to ensure your children or guests do not accidentally touch the firebox.
- Despite the dampers, your chimney may not be fully sealed, leaving room for cool air to enter the house and crank up your utility bills.
- If you have a traditional masonry fireplace, you will need to invest in a fireplace insert to make it more efficient.
With a variety of fireplace options at different price points, you can find one that is best suited to your needs and lifestyle. No matter which type you choose, always rely on the certified professionals at Elite Fireplace for your chimney and fireplace installation, cleaning, maintenance and repairs.
Call us at (610) 489-4274 today or contact us online to learn more about our services and products. A representative will be in touch soon.