Converting wood to gas fireplace (house, cost of, versus)

[llckll]

Hi,

I am interested in converting a wood fireplace to gas. Has anyone done this before? What is the typical cost? I know that a gas line would have to be extended to the fireplace.

Any pros/cons to wood vs. gas and vice versa?

Thanks.

[joe moving]

Gas is easier , doesn't throw off as much heat, not quite as romantic. Running a gas line is expensive... and it will depend on where they can T from or if they have to run it from the meter. For the gas set, it will depend what kind of setup you get. If you just get a few gas logs, i think it could be a few hundred bucks, versus a gas insert, several thousand, plus cost of running the gas line. If this is an occasional use thing, a gas log set is OK. If you are really trying to heat your house with it that is a different story.

for example
Evening CrossFire Vented Gas Log Set | WoodlandDirect.com: Fireplace Accessories, Log Sets, Gas Logs Vented, Log Sets - Gas

NOTE The Vented Log Sets are for use in fully functioning wood-burning fireplaces with the damper wide open. Glass doors must be open when burning for proper ventilation, proper combustion and cooling of safety control valves. Vented gas logs are not a cure for a smoking chimney. Burners sold separately.

[Sergio M]

You should also consider lining the chimney with a metal sleeve. Gas emissions produce water vapor that will get into the porus masonry, which will freeze and eventually break down the chimney structure.