From Wood To Gas
Cabin Living|November 2017

From Wood To Gas

Daphne Howland
From Wood To Gas
 Q What are the pros and cons of converting a masonry wood fireplace to gas? – Joe B., via email

When it comes to ambience and mood, there’s nothing quite like sitting near a crackling fireplace. We are primed to enjoy it, probably because of the importance of fire for early humans, according to researchers at the University of Alabama’s department of anthropology in Tuscaloosa. “[F]ire likely extended the day, provided heat, helped with hunting, warded off predators and insects, illuminated dark places, and facilitated cooking,” the report explains. “Campfires also may have provided social nexus and relaxation effects that could have enhanced prosocial behavior.”

Spending periods of time with the sounds and sights of a campfire or fireplace induces relaxation and even lowers a person’s blood pressure, the research team also found. Therefore, the biggest downside of a gas fireplace is that it may not provide that primal enjoyment.

This story is from the November 2017 edition of Cabin Living.

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This story is from the November 2017 edition of Cabin Living.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.