If you want to add instant warmth, charm, and year-round enjoyment to your backyard, an outdoor fireplace is one of the best upgrades you can make. And here in San Antonio—where we spend so much time outdoors—fire features aren’t just about staying warm. They create ambiance, anchor your patio design, and turn ordinary nights into something truly special.
But before you start designing your dream fireplace, there’s one big decision to make: wood-burning or gas?
Both styles offer incredible benefits, but the right choice depends on your lifestyle, your backyard setup, and what kind of outdoor experience you want to create. At Integrated Outdoor Designs, we build custom outdoor fireplaces of all kinds, so we know firsthand what makes each option great.
Let’s break down everything you need to know so you can choose the perfect fit for your San Antonio home.
1. The Atmosphere: Rustic Tradition vs. Modern Convenience
When most people picture a cozy fireplace, they imagine the smell of burning wood, the sound of crackling logs, and the warm glow of a natural flame. A wood-burning fireplace delivers exactly that classic, nostalgic experience.
Gas fireplaces, on the other hand, provide instant ambiance with the flip of a switch—literally. The flames are clean, consistent, and easy to control, which makes them ideal for modern homeowners who prefer convenience.
Choose a wood-burning fireplace if you want:
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A true campfire feel
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A natural flame with crackle and scent
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The experience of building and tending a fire
Choose a gas fireplace if you prefer:
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Instant fire with zero hassle
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A clean-burning option
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Flames you can adjust with a switch or remote
It all comes down to your personality and how you like to relax outdoors.
2. Heat Output: Which One Keeps You Warmer?
If warmth is your top priority, wood-burning fireplaces usually win. The intensity of a wood fire simply can’t be matched by most gas systems, especially in open outdoor areas.
But that doesn’t mean gas is lacking—far from it. Today’s gas fireplaces can produce plenty of heat, and many homeowners love the steady, predictable output.
Heat comparison:
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Wood-burning: Highest heat output; great for cooler nights and large outdoor areas
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Gas: Steady, comfortable warmth; ideal for casual evenings or under a covered patio
If you love hosting gatherings during the cooler seasons, wood may be your best bet. But if you want a cozy atmosphere without extreme heat, gas is a great choice.
3. Maintenance: How Much Work Do You Want to Do?
Here’s where the differences really start to stand out.
Wood-burning fireplaces require more hands-on care:
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Chopping or buying firewood
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Cleaning ashes
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Managing smoke and soot buildup
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Checking airflow and chimney performance
For some homeowners, this upkeep is part of the charm. For others? Not so much.
Gas fireplaces are about as low-maintenance as it gets:
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No ashes
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No wood storage
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Minimal cleaning
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Easy annual checkups
If you’re a low-fuss kind of person, gas is definitely the more convenient option.
4. Installation Requirements and Flexibility
Depending on your home’s setup, one type may be easier to install than the other.
Wood-burning fireplaces need:
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A properly designed chimney or vent
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Adequate clearance from your home
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Structurally sound foundations
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Compliance with local burn regulations
They’re larger and require more planning, which is why custom builds are a must.
Gas fireplaces require:
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A buried gas line
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Adequate ventilation
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Professional installation for safety
They’re often more flexible to place, especially in smaller yards or under covered patios where wood-burning isn’t an option.
Custom design is key for both options, and that’s where working with a professional outdoor living company really pays off.
5. Cost Differences: Upfront vs. Long-Term Value
The cost of building an outdoor fireplace varies depending on the materials, size, and design—but here’s a general idea:
Wood-burning fireplaces:
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Usually more expensive to install
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Require a chimney or venting system
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May be more affordable to operate (wood is cheap)
Gas fireplaces:
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Often lower installation cost
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Require a gas line hookup
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Cost more to operate long-term but offer convenience
If your budget focuses on long-term savings, wood can be cost-effective. If you value convenience and simplicity, gas is worth the investment.
6. Environmental Impact: Clean vs. Natural Burning
Gas fireplaces burn much cleaner than wood, producing fewer emissions and no floating embers. If you’re concerned about air quality—or live in an area with burn restrictions—gas may be the better choice.
Wood-burning fireplaces use a renewable resource, and many homeowners appreciate the natural experience. Just keep in mind that they produce smoke and ash.
7. Design Options and Aesthetic Choices
Both gas and wood-burning fireplaces can be absolutely stunning when custom-built.
Wood-burning styles often include:
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Traditional stone hearths
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Rustic touches with natural materials
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Large statement fireplaces
Gas fireplaces can offer:
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Sleek modern lines
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Linear flames
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Decorative fire glass or ceramic logs
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Creative shapes and designs
If you have a strong design preference, one type may align more naturally with your style.
8. Safety Considerations
Safety is always a top priority.
Wood-burning fireplaces:
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Emit sparks and embers
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Require screens or spark guards
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Need proper distance from flammable structures
Gas fireplaces:
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Produce no flying sparks
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Offer easier flame control
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Work well under covered spaces
If you have young kids or want something safe for close seating areas, gas may be the more comfortable option.
So… Which Type of Outdoor Fireplace Is Right for You?
The best choice depends on your lifestyle:
Choose a wood-burning fireplace if you:
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Love the crackle and smell of real wood
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Want the highest heat output
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Prefer a more traditional, rustic look
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Don’t mind hands-on fire-building
Choose a gas fireplace if you:
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Want convenience and instant ambiance
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Prefer a cleaner-burning option
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Love modern design
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Want low maintenance
No matter which direction you choose, a custom-built outdoor fireplace adds beauty, value, and comfort to your home.
Bring Your Dream Outdoor Fireplace to Life
At Integrated Outdoor Designs, we build stunning custom outdoor fireplaces that transform backyards into cozy, stylish gathering spaces. Whether you’re dreaming of the classic charm of wood-burning or the effortless convenience of gas, our team can design a fireplace that fits your home, your lifestyle, and your personal style.
Ready to get started? Reach out today, and let’s build a fire feature you’ll enjoy for years to come.