Updating Old Fireplaces with a Modern Gas Fireplace Log System

Older fireplaces tend to have a kind of charm about them, a centerpiece that grounds a room with classic design and nostalgia. However, in reality, most of these old wood-burning units are inefficient, drafty, and high maintenance. That’s why homeowners across the country are upgrading their hearths with a gas fireplace log system: a solution that brings modern function to a classic fixture. 

At Fireside, we specialize in guiding customers through the fireplace transformation process. If you are retrofitting a long-unused masonry fireplace or just need a more convenient and cleaner source of heat, a gas log set is a thing of beauty, warmth and efficiency with the least amount of effort. This is what you need to know about renovating an old fireplace with the best gas logs of today.  

The Reason to Upgrade Your Fireplace  

Many older fireplaces require too much work, leading to lower usage in homes. It can be a bother to gather firewood, clear the ash and cope with the unpredictable warmth of a real wood fire, so the pleasure of a real wood fire does not always justify the inconvenience.  

A modern gas fireplace log eliminates those pain points. You no longer have to construct and maintain a fire by hand. Simply push a button or flick a switch to have reliable, on-demand heat. Upgrading means:  

• No ash, soot or creosote to clean  
• No firewood hauling or storing  
• Better heating efficiency  
• Less emission and safer operation  
• Improved indoor air quality  

And, when you have the ability to customize the design, your new and improved fireplace not only works better, but it also looks better as well.  

What Is a Gas Fireplace Log System?  

A gas fireplace log system consists of a burner system and ceramic or refractory logs arranged to resemble real wood. The logs are also meticulously crafted to resemble oak, birch, driftwood and other varieties of wood and the flame system is set in such a way that it burns around and through the logs producing a realistic fire effect. With the right configuration, a gas fireplace log offers the appearance of a traditional fire without the mess or ongoing upkeep.  

Aesthetics: Modernization without Sacrifice  

One of the most appealing aspects of a gas fireplace log is its ability to retain the visual charm of a traditional fireplace while incorporating modern design. Modern logs are made using complex textures and hand-finished to resemble the texture of real wood. Do you like the dark, burnt appearance of aged oak or the smooth lines of light birch? Then there is a log style to fit your area.  

Also, most gas log sets have glowing ember beds, glass media, and multi-level burner ports to add more depth and variety to the flames. Fireside showrooms feature working displays, allowing you to experience different setups and visualize what your upgraded fireplace could look like.  

Practical Benefits of a Gas Fireplace Logs 

Upgrading your fireplace system is not only a matter of beauty; The functional advantages of upgrading an old wood-burning fireplace are significant, and consist of: 

1. User Friendliness  

Gas fireplace logs are easy to operate. You can be warm without ever having to strike a match with wall switches, remote controls, and even thermostat settings.   

2. Clean Indoor Air 

Gas logs are clean burning as opposed to wood fires that emit smoke and particulates. Direct-vent models keep the indoor air quality at a higher level and remove the odor of smoke.  

3. Effective Zone Heating  

Most gas fireplace logs produce significant heat. Use them as additional sources of heat to minimize your furnace use and focus the heat where it is required.  

4. Increased Safety  

No flying embers, no moving logs, no possibility of chimney fires when using a gas log set. Safety features in sealed systems are oxygen depletion sensors and automatic shutoffs.  

5. Low Maintenance  

No ash, no sweeping. No stacking with no logs. Gas log systems have few moving parts and clean burning, which means they have much less maintenance than wood systems.   

Selecting the Right Log Set to Fit Your Style  

Gas fireplace logs come in a range of visual styles, so you're not limited to a generic appearance. Consider such options as:  

• Split Oak: Conventional, solid appearance with natural bark and interior grain  
• Driftwood: Informal, aged style that suits coastal or contemporary houses  
• Birch: Lighter and minimalist, to fit clean-lined modern interiors  
• Charred Series: Logs which seem to be burnt partially, providing a rich visual texture  

The flame pattern, ember media, and log arrangement all help to make the fire look natural. Visiting a Fireside showroom lets you compare live-burning models to determine which visual effect best suits your taste.  

The Upgrade Process with Fireside  

Fireside makes it simple to modernize your fireplace. We take control of the whole process, consultation to installation: 

Step 1: In-Home Evaluation  

We start with a detailed evaluation of your current fireplace. This will allow us to decide which type of fireplace replacement option can be used and to advise you accordingly depending on your objectives, the size of your room, and venting.  

Step 2: Product Selection  

Our team walks you through available models, helping you choose the right gas fireplace log set in terms of size, flame style, efficiency, and control options. We also take you through the particulars of customization such as trim, faceplates and media.  

Step 3: Installation  

Fireside’s certified installers handle gas line hookups, vent configuration, firebox preparation, and safety checks. The majority of installations take a day and cause minimal disturbance.  

Step 4: Walk through after Installation  

We show you how to use your system and tell you about simple maintenance. You also have access to our continued support as well as annual service plans.  

Is a Gas Fireplace Log Right for You?  

The answer to this question is probably yes, especially when your current fireplace is drafty, not used, or hard to maintain. Gas log sets restore comfort, convenience, and performance to the hearth, and they do it without compromising on looks.  

They particularly fit well for: 

• Homeowners having old wood fireplaces  
• Individuals who want to reduce heating expenses using zone heating  
• People who desire safer, cleaner options  
• Remodelers who renovate old houses to new systems  

Your fireplace may be the focal point of your living room, or an afterthought in a den, but an upgrade can make it look and feel better. 

Visit Fireside to Explore Your Options  

Are you ready to revive your old fireplace? A gas fireplace log is a low-maintenance, high-impact way to modernize your hearth without a full remodel.  

Visit a Fireside showroom to explore working displays and speak with a knowledgeable expert. We will guide you through the possibilities, address your concerns, and assist you to locate the most appropriate system to suit your space and style.  

Your fireplace shouldn’t just be decorative but also comfortable, beautiful, and can be used every day. Let Fireside help you bring that vision to life with a modern gas fireplace log  that delivers timeless charm and present-day performance.