
Which Stove Material is Right For You: Cast Iron, Steel, or Soapstone?
|
|
Time to read 4 min
|
|
Time to read 4 min
A fireplace is more than just a source of warmth; it’s a centerpiece of your home, adding ambiance, charm, and comfort. When choosing a fireplace or wood stove, the material it’s made from is crucial for both aesthetics and functionality. Cast iron, steel, and soapstone are three of the most popular materials, each offering unique benefits and drawbacks. In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each to help you make the best choice for your home.
Cast iron has been a traditional choice for fireplaces and wood stoves for centuries. Known for its durability and timeless appeal, it’s often associated with ornate designs and classic aesthetics.
A Cast Iron Wood Stove That Boasts a High Efficiency Rate
The Green Mountain 40 is an efficient contemporary cast iron wood stove. A mixture of tried and true meets cutting edge in our new Tru-Hybrid combustion system. This technology provides an ultra clean burn with efficiencies over 80% while providing previously impossible burn times. The Green Mountain series has a large viewing window which affords an impressive view, and a cast iron body that incorporates more contemporary styling cues to fit in virtually any home.
BTU | Up to 40,000 Output |
Width | 23-3/5 in. |
Height | 30-3/5 in. |
Depth | 16-3/5 in. |
Weight | 464 lbs. |
Material | Cast Iron |
Heating Capacity | Up to 1,400 sq ft. |
Burn Time | 16 hrs. |
Efficiency | 77% |
EPA Certified | Yes |
Check out the Green Mountain 40 Wood Stove here:
Steel is a modern material that’s increasingly popular for fireplaces and stoves. Its sleek, contemporary design makes it a favorite for minimalist and industrial-style homes.
A Steel Fireplace That Has Received Unlimited Praise
Certified as having 68.99% efficiency for natural gas and 69.12% for LP gas, the Lakefield XL offers impressive performance. Rated at 40,00 BTU/hr input for natural gas and 39,000 BTU/hr LP gas, this is a free standing gas fireplace that benefits from both excellent performance and eye-catching good looks. Fronted by traditional glass, this gas fireplace includes a limited lifetime warranty and offers exceptional value.
BTU | Up to 22,000 - 40,000 Output |
Width | 30-13/16 in. |
Height | 32 in. |
Depth | 20-11/16 in. |
Weight | 207 lbs. |
Material | Steel |
Viewing Area | 22 (W) x 16 (H) in. |
Efficiency | 72.2% |
Check out the Lakefield XL Gas Stove by Kozy Heat here:
Soapstone is a natural material known for its beautiful, smooth texture and unique heat-retaining properties. It’s often used in high-end fireplaces and wood stoves for its luxurious look and functionality.
A Soapstone/Cast Iron Model That We Love
The Mansfield is a true workhorse. With Relaxed good looks that will deliver lasting whole-house warmth. The Mansfield is a top-seller among Leisure Time hearth professionals. Enjoy up to 14 hours of sustained heat on a single load of wood.
BTU | Up to 80,000 Output |
Width | 27 in. |
Height | 31-3/5 in. |
Depth | 24 in. |
Weight | 555 lbs. |
Heating Capacity |
Up to 2,500 sq ft. |
Burn Time | 10 hrs. |
Efficiency | 67% |
Firebox Capacity | 3.2 cu ft. |
EPA Certified | Yes |
Check out the Mansfield by HearthStone here:
The type of fuel (wood, gas, or other) is primarily determined by the stove’s design and functionality, not the material. For example:
The stove’s material won’t restrict what fuel it can use, but it may impact performance or efficiency.