Gas fireplaces are one of the most requested features for custom home buyers. Hearths with a gas fireplace bring both peaceful ambiance and meaningful warmth to a custom home.
If you are buying a new fireplace for your custom home build, it will likely be the centerpiece of the living room. This means the fireplace needs to meet specific criteria. Wood often creates too much mess. Pellet (while hot) does not have the beautiful flame most folks want in their living room. Gas fireplaces are our recommended solution for custom homes.
We are not going to waste your time recommending the cheaper gas fireplace models or unvented gas logs. Large home builders already offer electric fireplaces and budget gas fireplaces. The goal here is to offer three viable vented gas fireplace options for your home that will offer beauty and heat without compromise. Each of these three hearth appliances have some pros and cons. Let’s dig in!
Gas Logs or Gas Fireplace | What is the Difference?
First, a quick lesson. Ten years ago, many custom home customers used to opt for an open fireplace with gas logs. While this was a popular option of the past, vented gas logs do not provide meaningful heat as most of the warmth goes up your chimney.
Additionally, unvented gas logs create an odor and are not recommended for extended use due to health concerns. Vented, pre-fabricated gas fireplaces are the choice option for most new home builders who want both heat and beauty.
Learn more about gas fireplaces:
- Best Gas Fireplace for Upgrading Your Old Fireplace
- Our Favorite Gas Fireplace Insert
- What is the Difference Between a Gas Insert & a Gas Fireplace?
- What Does a New Gas Fireplace Installation Cost?
- What is the Life Expectancy of a Gas Fireplace?
- Fireplace Upgrade Buying Guide
- How to Get More Heat from Your Fireplace?
Good: Heatilator Caliber Series – Affordable Beauty with Solid Heat
If you want a big, welcoming flame at a reasonable price, the Heatilator Caliber is a great starting point. Builders love it for its reliability and straightforward installation, while homeowners appreciate the cozy feel it creates in the heart of the home.
Why You’ll Love It:
Large glass viewing area for a full, rich flame view.
Multiple trim and log set options to match your style.
Strong heat output—perfect for open family rooms.
Affordable without looking “builder basic.”
Best For:
Main living spaces in budget-conscious custom builds.
Homeowners who want impact without overspending.
Heat & Glo 6K & 8K Series – The New Standard in 2025
The 6K and 8K Series are the modern evolution of Heat & Glo’s most popular fireplaces. Builders trust these models because they work beautifully in almost any home design. Homeowners love the ability to customize everything from the interior media to the front design. The 6K/8K gas fireplace fits seamlessly with their vision.
Why You’ll Love It:
Multiple sizes for small, medium, and large spaces.
Intellifire Touch ignition system with optional Wi-Fi control.
Interior choices ranging from classic logs to sleek glass or stone.
Optional fan kits for pushing heat farther into the room.
- Fine mesh screen and high quality ceramic glass glass that is almost invisible. It looks like there is nothing between you and the flame!
Best For:
Mid-range to upper-tier custom homes.
Homeowners who want both a personal design touch and strong heating performance.
Heat & Glo Primo II – The Statement Piece
If your goal is to make your fireplace a jaw-dropping centerpiece, the Primo II linear gas fireplace delivers. Builders love the high-end construction and modern, frameless finish, while homeowners get a fireplace that feels like art in the room.
Why You’ll Love It:
Frameless, clean-face design for a true custom look.
LED under-lighting and color-changing ember bed.
High BTU output for expansive open-concept spaces.
Cool-touch glass for safety. No one will get hurt touching this fireplace.
Best For:
Luxury homes and showcase properties that lean toward a more modern design philosophy.
Homeowners who want their fireplace to be a design statement.
How to Choose the Right Gas Fireplace for Your Custom Home?
If you’re a builder, think about the target market for your home and the spaces where the fireplace will be installed.
If you’re a homeowner, think about how you’ll use your fireplace—do you want it primarily for looks, for heat, or both? All of these gas fireplaces supply heat, but each does so with varying degrees of intensity.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Budget-Friendly Warmth & Style: Caliber Series Gas Fireplace
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Out Top Pick a Proven Performer with Custom Looks: 6K/8K Series Gas Fireplace
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Luxury Showstopper: Primo II Linear Gas Fireplace
A fireplace is one of the few features in a home that can truly define the mood of a space. Whether you’re building a home for a client or for yourself, choosing the right model early ensures it integrates perfectly with your framing, finishes, and overall design vision.
The Stove Shop Fireplace Experts
The Stove Shop Fireplace Experts is located at 20 E. Pothouse Road Phoenixville, PA 19460. Our hours are 10am – 5pm Tuesday thru Friday and 10am – 4pm on Saturday. Our goal since 1977 has been to help our customers stay warm and save money. If you want to learn more about heating your home with a fireplace check out, “How to get more heat from your fireplace“.
