Have you ever looked at a roaring fire in your fireplace, thought it was made of wood, and then suddenly realized that the “wood” wasn’t actually burning? If you have, then congratulations: you’ve encountered gas logs. These small fireplace accessories are often overlooked when the topic of fireplace maintenance comes up, so today’s article is all about them.

What are Gas Logs?

As the name implies, gas logs are gas-burning, log-like structures that are installed inside your fireplace. While high-quality gas logs often look like they’re made of natural wood, they’re usually made of ceramic, cement, or steel. As a result, they can withstand the heat of a direct flame for long periods of time without burning.

What Are Gas Logs Used For?

While gas logs can increase the efficiency of a fireplace, people tend to choose them for aesthetic reasons. Gas fireplaces are much more convenient to use than wood-burning fireplaces, but the ambiance of a gas fireplace is different from that of a wood fireplace. Gas logs allow homeowners to enjoy the best of both worlds; they get the convenience of burning wood with some of its “mystique.” Interestingly, some manufacturers offer ceramic acorns, pine cones, and twigs as accessories; adding these small pieces can help provide a higher degree of realism to the display!

Is it time to replace your gas logs?

While a decent set of gas logs can last a considerable amount of time (much longer than real wood, anyway), they are not infallible. The lifespan of a gas log depends on its design, quality of construction, and how often you use your fireplace. With proper maintenance, a set of ventilated ceramic logs can last a decade or more. Unventilated logs have an average lifespan of three to five years.