If you have a double-sided, see-thru, or corner fireplace, you'll need gas logs that are beautiful from all openings. Our see-thru fireplace gas log sets offer a realistic view from virtually any angle. The multi-sided gas logs we provide by Rasmussen, RealFyre, and Empire Comfort Systems are beautifully crafted and include detailed painting with multi-dimensional highlighting. They are made from a durable ceramic fiber and molded from real logs like oak, pine, driftwood, aspen, and ponderosa!
Each gas log set comes with the timbers, a see-thru grate, see-thru burner, sand, fire embers, an aluminum connector, volcanic cinders, a brass cap, a brass elbow, and a standard orifice. We also offer 4 different valve options, as well as pilot control and damper stop add ons.
Some of our vented and vent-free see-thru gas log sets are made from refractory cement, which allows the logs to be molded from casts of actual timbers, giving them a high definition appearance. This also makes them resistant to the intense heat from gas fires. A typical small refractory cement gas log set (16 to 24 inches wide) weighs around 50 pounds without the burner.
Other see-thru gas log sets are crafted from ceramic fiber. This lightweight material is just as fireproof as refractory cement, but it actually radiates more heat back into the room. Additionally, our contemporary log sets, firestones, and fire shapes are made from refractory ceramic. This is lighter in weight than refractory cement, but not quite as light as ceramic fiber.
Finally, we offer burners that nestle pounds of high-temperature glass for a look that adds a dazzling shimmer to your fireplace!
Our see-thru sets are sized according to the approximate width of the log stacks or contemporary burners. A 24-inch match lit log set, for example, is no more than 24 inches wide at the front of the stack. Burner pans, valve kits, millivolt switches, and other add ons will add even more width to the set. If your fireplace is 24 inches wide, we do not recommend a 24-inch log stack, rather a shorter one so that you have natural space on either side.
Height varies by gas log set size, as well as the type of burner you choose. All of these log stacks are designed to fit in a standard, up-to-code fireplace. The difference is that some have low profiles which could leave a large gap in a high fireplace. Tall stacks that fit in a standard fireplace might look too cramped.
A see-thru gas log set is used in a see-through or peninsula fireplace. See-through fireplaces have two viewing openings, while a peninsula fireplace has 3 sides. The burner is designed to be viewed from multiple angles, and the logs, fire shapes, or glass stack to cover the hardware from either view. With a see-thru log set, timbers may have different finishes, allowing you to choose what you see. You may have bark on one side of the fireplace while displaying bark-less "split" wood on the other.
A single face gas log set is designed for use in a standard fireplace with one opening. The logs are stacked on the burner in such a way that the hardware is covered up when viewed from the front. These particular log sets have either bark or split wood finish. If you have a fireplace with one opening and a working chimney, please see our vented gas log sets. For fireplaces with one opening and no chimney or vent, please see our ventless gas log sets.
We do NOT recommend that you try to install a see-thru gas log set on your own because it is a complicated appliance that may require modification to your fireplace and fuel source connections. To verify that it is installed correctly and for your safety, we recommend hiring a certified professional installer. This safety precaution ensures that the gas appliance matches local fire codes and insurance liabilities.
A log set installed in a fireplace of the same width (example: 24-inch log set in a 24-inch wide fireplace) will look cramped. There won't be enough room for standard valve and ignition systems.
Using a slightly smaller log set (example: 18-inch log set in a 24-inch wide fireplace) will look more natural and leave room for add-on components.
Certain gas log sets offer a millivolt valve system. Millivolt systems do not require an external power source and will still work even during a power outage. Millivolt valves enable you the option of using a remote control or wall switch.
Some of the gas burner valve options in these log sets will say that they are ANSI certified. This means that they meet the Z21.60 standard of quality for decorative gas fire features. Many jurisdictional fire code standards require this standard. Most other products meet the ANSI Z21.84 standard. Always check with your installer as to what standards you must meet for your location.
The terms "vented" and "vent-free" refer to whether your fireplace has a chimney or vent.
A vented gas log set requires a fireplace with a working chimney or vent. These act as an exhaust for the fumes from the burning of the gas or propane. Flames from a vented set are usually large, natural, and yellow. Most of these sets come with a damper clamp to keep a chimney damper open when installing in a wood-burning fireplace. You CANNOT install a vented log set in a vent-free fireplace.
A vent-free or ventless gas log set does not need a chimney or vent but must be installed in an area with adequate airflow and ventilation. Flames from a vent-free set are usually low, hot, and red or blue. Typically you CAN install a vent-free log set in a vented fireplace, but you will need to close the vent or damper.
Most jurisdictions have ordinances in place that prevent vent-free fireplaces from being installed in bedrooms and bathrooms.