Outdoor living has become a major trend in Colorado, especially in cities like Denver where homeowners love spending time outside year-round. As people continue upgrading their patios, decks, and backyards, outdoor fireplaces have become one of the most in-demand features. They provide warmth, ambiance, comfort, and a perfect gathering spot for family and friends. But when it comes to choosing the right type of fireplace, most homeowners end up deciding between gas and wood-burning.
Both options have benefits, and the best one for you depends on your lifestyle, design preferences, maintenance expectations, and budget. In this guide, we’ll compare gas vs. wood-burning outdoor fireplaces in Denver to help you make the right choice for your home.
Why Outdoor Fireplaces Are Popular in Denver
Denver’s unique climate—sunny days, chilly nights, and crisp winters—makes outdoor fireplaces more than just a luxury. They extend your outdoor season, allowing you to enjoy backyard gatherings well into fall and winter.
Outdoor fireplaces also:
Increase property value
Enhance outdoor aesthetics
Create a cozy, inviting atmosphere
Serve as a focal point for entertaining
Improve the functionality of your patio or yard
Whether you prefer the rustic crackle of real wood or the convenience of instant heat from gas, a fireplace is a great investment.
Understanding Gas Outdoor Fireplaces
Gas outdoor fireplaces run on either natural gas or propane, making them an easy, efficient heating option. They are very common in modern Denver neighborhoods due to their streamlined look and minimal maintenance.
Benefits of Gas Outdoor Fireplaces
✔ Convenience and Ease of Use
You can turn a gas fireplace on or off with the push of a button—perfect for Denver homeowners who want instant warmth on cold evenings.
✔ Low Maintenance
Gas fireplaces don’t produce ash, soot, or sparks, which means you won’t spend time cleaning after each use.
✔ Cleaner Burn
They release fewer emissions, making them an environmentally friendly option compared to traditional wood.
✔ Consistent Heat Output
Unlike wood fires that fluctuate in heat, gas provides a stable, controlled flame.
✔ Usable During Fire Restrictions
Denver often enforces seasonal fire bans. Gas fireplaces are usually allowed because they don’t emit sparks.
Drawbacks of Gas Fireplaces
✘ Higher Upfront Cost
Gas lines, installation, and safety requirements can make the initial investment more expensive.
✘ Lacks the Traditional Wood Fire Experience
Some homeowners miss the sound, smell, and natural flame movement of burning wood.
✘ Gas Line Requirements
If your property doesn’t already have gas access, you’ll need to install a line, which adds to the overall cost.
Understanding Wood-Burning Outdoor Fireplaces
A wood-burning fireplace is the traditional choice, loved for its rustic feel and natural warmth. Many Denver homeowners prefer wood because it creates an authentic outdoor experience.
Benefits of Wood-Burning Fireplaces
✔ Classic Ambiance
The crackling sound, smell of burning wood, and dancing flames create a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere that gas often can’t replicate.
✔ Lower Installation Costs
While designs vary, wood-burning fireplaces generally cost less upfront than their gas counterparts.
✔ No Gas Line Needed
This makes placement more flexible, especially for homes without existing natural gas access.
✔ Higher Heat Potential
Wood can produce significantly more heat, making it ideal for large outdoor areas.
Drawbacks of Wood Fireplaces
✘ More Maintenance Required
You’ll need to clean out ash, discard leftover embers, and occasionally sweep the chimney.
✘ Fire Restrictions Apply
During Denver’s wildfire or high-wind alerts, wood-burning fires may be temporarily prohibited.
✘ Requires Wood Storage and Seasoning
You’ll need a dry place to store wood and ensure it’s properly seasoned for burning.
✘ More Smoke and Particulates
Wood fires create more emissions than gas, which may be a concern for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Cost Comparison: Gas vs. Wood-Burning Fireplaces
Installation Costs
Gas fireplaces: $3,000–$10,000+ (depending on gas line installation, permits, and customization)
Wood-burning fireplaces: $1,500–$6,000+ (design-dependent, no gas line needed)
Operating Costs
Gas: Ongoing fuel expense but consistent and efficient
Wood: Firewood can be inexpensive but requires storage and labor
Maintenance Costs
Gas: Very low
Wood: Requires annual cleaning, ash removal, and possible chimney maintenance
Which One Fits Denver’s Climate Better?
Denver’s weather swings from warm days to freezing nights—sometimes within a single day. Both fireplace types work well in this climate, but your choice depends on your lifestyle.
Best for Busy Homeowners:
Gas fireplaces are ideal because they are quick, clean, and easy.
Best for Outdoor Enthusiasts:
Wood-burning fireplaces provide a rustic, campfire-like experience.
Best for HOA Areas:
Many homeowner associations prefer gas because they comply more easily with safety regulations.
Best for Large Backyards:
Wood-burning fireplaces generate more heat, making them great for open spaces.
Aesthetic and Design Differences
Both fireplace options can be customized with stone, brick, stucco, tile, or metal to match your outdoor living style.
Gas Fireplace Aesthetics
Perfect for modern and contemporary homes
Can be built into walls, seating areas, or custom structures
Offers clean lines and controlled flame patterns
Wood Fireplace Aesthetics
Ideal for rustic, lodge-inspired, or traditional properties
Creates a natural outdoor focal point
Works well with natural stone, timber, and mountain-style designs
Environmental Considerations
Denver has strict air-quality regulations, especially during winter. Gas fireplaces are cleaner and often recommended for reducing emissions.
Wood fireplaces, although more atmospheric, release particulate matter and smoke. To minimize impact, homeowners should use:
Kiln-dried wood
Hardwood logs
Properly seasoned wood
Safety Considerations
Both fireplace types can be safe when installed correctly.
Gas fireplaces require:
Professional installation
Proper gas line setup
Routine safety checks
Wood fireplaces require:
Chimney cleaning
Spark screens
Safe wood-burning practices
Conclusion: Which Outdoor Fireplace Is Best for You?
Choosing between gas vs. wood-burning outdoor fireplaces in Denver depends on your personal preferences, budget, and lifestyle.
Choose Gas if you want:
Convenience
Low maintenance
Clean-burning flames
HOA-friendly or fire-ban-safe use
Choose Wood if you want:
Traditional fire ambiance
Lower installation costs
Stronger heat output
A natural outdoor experience
No matter which option you choose, an outdoor fireplace will elevate your Denver backyard, increase your home’s value, and create a beautiful gathering space for every season.