By: Tiffany Kurilla, NFI Certified Master Hearth Professional
Wood vs Gas Outdoor Fireplaces
How to Choose the Best Option for Your Lifestyle
Last Updated: March 24, 2026
There’s something timeless about gathering around a fire outdoors. Whether it’s a crisp fall evening or a calm summer night, an outdoor fireplace creates a natural gathering place — warm, inviting, and full of ambiance.
But when it comes time to choose your setup, one big question stands in the way:
Should you go with gas or wood?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each type of outdoor fireplace offers its own unique experience, benefits, and trade-offs. The key is choosing the one that aligns with your lifestyle, preferences, and how you actually plan to use your space.
Let’s break it all down, so you can confidently choose the right fire feature for your home.
Understanding the Main Differences
At the simplest level:
- Gas outdoor fireplaces run on natural gas or propane and ignite instantly.
- Wood burning outdoor fireplaces burn real logs, offering a traditional fire experience.
From there, the differences become more meaningful — and more personal.
The Advantages of Outdoor Gas Fireplaces
Gas fireplaces have grown rapidly in popularity it’s easy to see why. They’re designed for modern living, where user-friendly features often take priority.
Effortless Convenience
If you love the idea of a fire but don’t want the work, gas is hard to beat.
With the push of a button, flip of a switch, and sometimes even an app on your smart phone, you have instant flames — no chopping wood, kindling, or waiting involved.
This makes gas fireplaces perfect for:
- Busy homeowners
- Entertaining guests on short notice
- Weeknight relaxation without the hassle
Low-Maintenance Living
One of the biggest advantages of gas is what you don’t have to deal with:
- No ash cleanup
- No soot or creosote buildup
- No chimney sweeping
Gas fireplaces burn clean, requiring only occasional inspections and light maintenance.
Consistent, Controllable Heat
Gas fireplaces provide steady, predictable heat output.
You can often adjust flame height and temperature to your liking, making them ideal for comfort-focused spaces.
Customizable Features
Many gas fireplaces offer custom framing options, burning displays, and accent lighting. This allows you to tailor the look to match the rest of your outdoor living area.
For example, if your taste is more traditional, you can add a classic brick firebox liner and a realistic gas log set. If your style leans more toward modern, there’s vibrant fire glass and sculptural cannon ball sets.
The Trade-offs of Using Gas
Of course, gas isn’t perfect.
- Less authentic feel: No crackling sound or smoky aroma of real wood.
- Utility dependence: You’ll need a steady gas supply to use your fireplace.
Gas is ideal if you want simplicity, cleanliness, and reliability.
The Benefits of Outdoor Wood Fireplaces
Wood burning fireplaces are the original outdoor fire feature — and they still hold a strong emotional appeal.
Unmatched Ambiance
This is where wood truly shines. The crackle of burning logs, the smell of smoke, and the organic movement of real flames create an experience akin to a traditional campfire that gas simply can’t replicate.
For many homeowners, this sensory experience is the reason to choose wood.
A More Traditional, Rustic Feel
Wood fireplaces bring a natural, handcrafted aesthetic to your outdoor space. They often feel more like a built-in architectural feature rather than a modern appliance.
Perfect for:
- Rustic or farmhouse-style homes
- Cabins and vacation properties
- Anyone chasing that “classic fireside” vibe
Independence from Utilities
No gas line? No problem. Wood fireplaces don’t rely on utilities, which makes them:
- Great for remote locations
- Usable during outages
- Fully self-sufficient
Potentially Lower Fuel Costs
If you have access to firewood — especially locally sourced or free wood — operating costs can be lower over time.
The Trade-Offs of Using Wood
That traditional charm comes with responsibility.
- More effort: Starting a fire, cleaning ash, and maintaining the chimney takes time and skill.
- Smoke & air quality: Wood fireplaces will create some smoke, which may be restricted in certain areas.
Wood is ideal if you value authenticity, tradition, and don’t mind a little hands-on effort.
Only Burn Seasoned Wood
If you do go with a wood burning outdoor fireplace, you’ll need properly seasoned firewood to burn.
Seasoned wood has a low moisture content — usually below 20%. It’s lightweight and darker in color with visible splits and cracks in the end grain.
Fresh or green wood has a high moisture content, so it won’t burn efficiently and releases excessive smoke.
Dry, seasoned logs ignite easily, burn steadily, and provide a consistent heat source. It’s also easier to handle and organize.
Learn more about firewood seasoning, the best types of wood to burn, and how you can store your firewood so it stays useable for as long as possible.
Key Questions to Help You Decide
Now that you understand the basics, let’s bring it back to your lifestyle.
What Kind of Experience Are You Looking For?
Ask yourself:
- Do you want a fire at a moment’s notice? → Gas
- Do you enjoy the ritual of building a fire? → Wood
Gas fits a convenience-driven lifestyle, while wood suits those who enjoy the process as much as the result.
How Often Will You Use Your Fireplace?
- Frequent use: Gas makes it easy to light and enjoy regularly
- Occasional use: Wood can feel more special and intentional
Because they offer instant ignition, gas fireplaces are easier for last-minute gatherings.
While wood fireplaces offer incredible ambiance, you’ll have to spend a little extra time lighting and stoking the fire, and waiting for it to extinguish when you’re done.
What Does Your Outdoor Layout Look Like?
Consider your setup:
- Limited space or urban environment → Gas is cleaner and more controlled
- Large backyard or rural property → Wood fits naturally
Also keep in mind local regulations — some areas restrict wood burning on certain days.
How Much Do You Want to Spend?
Think about your project budget:
- Upfront cost: Gas is typically more expensive to install
- Ongoing cost: Wood may be cheaper if you have access to firewood
Gas offers predictability, while wood can vary depending on supply and storage.
What’s the Main Goal: Atmosphere or Convenience?
This is often the deciding factor.
- Want romance, nostalgia, and sensory experience? → Wood
- Want ease, cleanliness, and modern control? → Gas
There’s no wrong answer — just different priorities.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between gas and wood outdoor fireplaces isn’t just about heat — it’s about how you want to live.
- Gas is clean, simple, and always ready
- Wood is immersive, traditional, and nostalgic
If your ideal evening involves flipping a switch and relaxing instantly, gas will serve you well. But if you picture stacking logs, hearing the crackle, and smelling the fire in the air, wood might be exactly what you’re looking for.
In the end, the “best” fireplace is the one you’ll actually use — and enjoy — again and again.
FAQs
Gas fireplaces eliminate sparks, embers, and excessive smoke, reducing fire hazards and making them easier to control.
However, both types are safe when properly installed and used responsibly.
Gas fireplaces absolutely produce real heat — and often more efficiently than wood.
Many models are designed to deliver consistent, adjustable warmth with minimal heat loss.
It can be — especially if you have access to inexpensive or free firewood.
However, costs can add up when purchasing seasoned wood and maintaining the chimney.
Yes, many wood burning fireplaces can be converted using gas log sets or inserts.
This is a common upgrade for homeowners who want to keep the look of a fireplace while gaining the convenience of gas.
We’re Here to Help
Do you have more questions about outdoor fireplaces? Call our NFI certified experts for advice at 800.919.1904 today!
More Resources
Complete your ultimate outdoor living space with a cozy fireplace, comfortable patio furniture, and a fully stocked outdoor kitchen!
Explore the installation costs of gas, wood, and electric fireplaces to plan a project that fits your budget.
While they require a little more upkeep — like regular cleaning and ash removal — the timeless charm of a real wood fireplace is hard to top.
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Tiffany Kurilla, Technical Sales Representative, has five years of experience at Woodland Direct. As an NFI-Certified Master Hearth Professional, she’s recognized for her deep knowledge of fireplace products and safety standards. Tiffany’s dedication and mastery earned her the title of Woodland’s top sales representative in 2021 and 2022. Outside of work, Tiffany is an avid traveler, exploring national and international destinations. Her favorite spot to visit? The Happiest Place on Earth — Disney World! Call Tiffany or one of our experts in fire at 800.919.1904. |