Many years ago, a discussion of fireplace logs would probably have included
an analysis of the various types of logs used for generating heat, with a
comparison of their efficiency in producing heat. Back then, logs meant wood,
and wood meant fuel. As time passed, other sources of heating emerged and even
gained wider popularity than solid fuel.
Gas and electrical fireplaces were easier to use and more cost-effective, but
they lacked one thing: the real feel. To compensate for this shortcoming,
imitation wood started to be used -- fireplace logs made of different materials
than real wood, but closely resembling natural it and restoring the magic of the
logs on the fire. The impression comes even closer to reality in the case of gas
fireplaces, where there actually is a flame to be seen.
Here are a few tips on how to choose the right logs for your fireplace.
Type of Fireplace
Of course, you will be offered certain kinds of faux wood depending on whether
your fireplace uses gas or electricity. In the case of gas fireplaces, there
will actually be a flame burning under the logs. To make up for the absence of
fire, logs for electrical fireplaces will usually come with some source of
glowing light under them. Some of them even have a device for producing the
crackling sound so characteristic of a genuine fire.
Visibility
A very important factor is how much of the firebox you can actually see. Thus,
there are fireplaces of which only the front side is visible, but there are also
fireplaces that allow two-way viewing. The latter are usually built into the
wall separating two rooms and are viewable from both rooms. Another kind would
be those fireplaces of which three sides can be seen. For the second and the
third type, you would need fireplace logs that come with a special burner making
the flames rise from the front and back as well as the middle of the logs. The
front and back of the grate and the fireplace logs will be of the same size.
Ventilation
There is also the distinction between vented and vent-free logs. The former look
a lot more realistic and need some sort of draft -- normally using the flue or
the damper. The latter are less like the real thing, but their advantage is that
the fireplace is used more effectively: instead of having the draft carry the
heat up the chimney, the warmth is all used for the room. However, vent-free
fireplace logs tend to add humidity to the air, so adequate room ventilation is
necessary. |
