Screened porches are one of the most desirable spaces in a home, offering a seamless blend of outdoor living with some protection from the elements. However, while they can be a delightful retreat during the warmer months, the transition to cooler weather often limits their use. This is where gas fireplaces come in—providing the warmth and ambiance needed to extend the enjoyment of your porch all year round, including during fall and winter. Gas fireplaces are ideal for screened porches, offering both convenience and comfort, transforming your outdoor space into a cozy retreat no matter the season.
Why Gas Fireplaces Are Ideal for Screened Porches
1. Weather Resistance & Versatility
One of the biggest benefits of gas fireplaces for screened porches is their ability to perform well in various weather conditions. A screened porch is exposed to the elements but still shielded from the full impact of wind and rain. Gas fireplaces are an excellent choice because they provide instant heat and are relatively unaffected by fluctuating weather. Unlike wood-burning fireplaces, which can be impractical in the rain or on windy days, gas fireplaces offer consistent, reliable heat at the push of a button.
2. Year-Round Use
Gas fireplaces make it possible to use your screened porch throughout the year, extending its functionality well into the colder months. In addition to keeping the porch warm in the winter, they can provide a pleasant ambiance during cooler spring and fall evenings. For homeowners who want to use their porches year-round, gas fireplaces are especially popular in four-season rooms—enclosed spaces designed for use regardless of the outside weather. By installing a gas fireplace, you can ensure your porch or four-season room remains comfortable and inviting, no matter the temperature outside.
3. Low Maintenance
Gas fireplaces are also a low-maintenance heating solution. Unlike wood-burning fireplaces, which require regular cleaning and wood storage, gas fireplaces only need occasional servicing to ensure everything is working properly. This makes them a convenient option for homeowners who want the charm and warmth of a fireplace without the hassle.
Our friends at BAC fireside have shared with us their top picks for gas fireplaces.
Three Top Brands for Gas Fireplaces
When it comes to high-quality gas fireplaces, there are several leading brands that offer excellent products suited for screened porches. Three notable names in the industry are Barbara Jean, HPC (Heatilator Products Company), and Simplifire. Each of these brands has earned a solid reputation for producing durable, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing gas fireplaces.
Barbara Jean
Based in Hickory, North Carolina, Barbara Jean is known for its handcrafted, high-quality gas fireplaces that deliver both functionality and beauty. The company has been in business for over 40 years, with a focus on crafting fireplaces that enhance the atmosphere of any room or outdoor space. The Barbara Jean Heritage Gas Fireplace is one of their most popular models for screened porches and four-season rooms. This unit combines a traditional look with modern efficiency. With its elegant design, it offers a powerful heat output while maintaining the rustic charm that many homeowners desire for their outdoor spaces. The Heritage model is equipped with a remote control for ease of operation, and its flexible installation options make it an ideal choice for porches and patios.
HPC (Heatilator Products Company)
Heatilator Products Company (HPC) is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, and has been a trusted name in the fireplace industry for over 40 years. HPC is renowned for its high-performance gas logs, fire pits, and fireplaces, designed to offer both convenience and elegance. Their products are often used in both residential and commercial settings due to their reliability and innovation.
One of HPC’s best-selling models for screened porches is the Novus Series. This unit is a versatile option that provides both efficient heating and an aesthetic centerpiece for any outdoor living space. This fireplace features a wide variety of configurations, including linear and traditional styles, allowing homeowners to choose the design that best fits their screened porch. It offers powerful heating performance with adjustable flame height, making it an ideal choice for regulating the temperature during cooler weather.
Simplifire
Based in Lakewood, Colorado, Simplifire has been producing gas fireplaces for over 15 years and has become known for offering sleek, modern designs that focus on simplicity and efficiency. Simplifire’s fireplaces are known for their cutting-edge technology, ease of installation, and ability to integrate seamlessly into a variety of spaces.
The Simplifire Freedom Gas Fireplace is one of the brand's top models, and it's particularly popular for screened porches due to its sleek, contemporary look and impressive performance. The Freedom model features a clean design with no visible flame, giving it a modern, minimalistic appearance. It also offers great heat output and a variety of customization options, including flame color and intensity control. Its compact size and simple installation make it a fantastic option for smaller screened porches or those looking for a more contemporary aesthetic.
IF you live in the DMV and are interested in creating a new outdoor space...screened porch, deck, our outdoor kitchen, reach out to Design Builders. We are a premier builder in the DMV, have been in business since 2008, and can create the perfect space for you and your family.
