Wood burning fireplaces have long been the type of fireplace most commonly selected. The aroma of wood flaming and the crackle of a fire are so romantic and cosy. For many, the very act of building a fire in a fireplace is as serene as watching the fire burn. Plus, the ambiance adds to the enjoyment. The most wonderful part is lowering the cost of heating, especially if a fireplace blower is in place to circulate the air throughout the home.

There are other considerations besides these benefits of a wood smouldering fireplace. Safety demands that fireplaces be cleaned regularly, including the chimney. Also, when using real wood rather than gas logs, you must monitor the fire, especially when it is bedtime and you put the fire out for the night.

The fireplace type you purchase depends on how you plan to use it and your personal likes and dislikes. When you prepare to choose, think about cost, appearance, heat efficiency, and maintenance. If your wood burning fireplace has been constructed properly, the heat will greatly reduce your heating costs. In fact, if you add a good blower, you can likely heat several rooms to toasty warmth. You must be certain to use the right type of wood for your fireplace since some woods burn hotter than others. Some woods make a fragrant smoke and crackle more, but for pure heat, hardwoods and fruitwoods or oak are the best choices.

Prefabricated wood burning fireplaces have become more popular of late. The offer affordability for home heating and can blend in better with an existing décor. You can change the look by painting the prefab fireplace with high-temperature paint anytime you redecorate. But if you love stone, marble, granite, or brick, you will prefer the natural, traditional wood fireplace.

Gas fireplaces may have outsold wood burning fireplaces in recent years, but no one wil argue that a wood burning fireplace provides a special magic all its own. There's nothing to compare to a real wood burning fireplace on a chilly day.