# Looking for a Wood Insert? Consider These Options

- Link: https://hearthsidepatio.com/hearth/looking-for-a-wood-insert-consider-these-options/
- Published: 2015-09-01T18:27:29-04:00
- Author: hearthsideri

![Fireplace in a new house](https://hearthsidepatio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/
12/Fotolia_61944908_Subscription_Yearly_M-300x200.jpg)

Fireplace in a new house

If you love the look and feel of your masonry fireplace but feel that the heating
capacity is not quite satisfactory, there’s no need to totally abandon the idea 
of a cozy fire adding warmth and atmosphere to your home. [Wood inserts](https://hearthsidepatio.com/product-type/hearth/inserts/wood-inserts/)
for your fireplace are an excellent way to utilize an existing fireplace and still
enjoy efficient heating capabilities. Here’s what you need to know about these inserts
as well as popular brands you may want to consider.

### How Inserts Work

A wood insert is basically a firebox that is installed in your existing fireplace.
This allows you to continue to use wood to create heat and ambiance for your home.
But inserts can also increase the heating capacity of your fireplace because they
are equipped with blowers so that the heat is moved around the entire area more 
effectively. Many people prefer the feel, smell, and sight of a real wood-burning
fire over a gas fireplace.

### Picking an Insert

The first consideration when picking a wood insert is the size of the firebox chamber.
There are many options to choose from that will accommodate different log sizes 
and fit well in your existing fireplace. There are also varying heating capacities
among the types of inserts, so it’s best to determine how many BTUs you’ll need 
before picking an insert. You should also research different decorative options 
such as the style of the glass door and surrounding cast iron decoration. Models
with arched or bay window viewing doors can significantly increase the viewing area,
which is an important factor to keep in mind.

### Brands of Inserts

There are numerous brands of fireplace inserts that you can choose from. Some major
brands include Regency, Hampton, Hearthstone, and Vermont Castings. Each of these
major brands have numerous models to choose from ensuring that your heating needs
will be met, but that your stylistic preferences will be satisfied as well, whether
you prefer a clean, modern look or old-fashioned charm.