The best gas fire or surround depends on where you plan to use it: choose a ventless fireplace with a mantel for a complete indoor focal point, a firebox for a customizable installation, or a propane fire table for an outdoor gathering area. The wind guards below are accessories rather than fireplaces, but they can help shield an existing outdoor gas fire from breezes. Check each product’s dimensions and fuel requirements before choosing.
| Product | Best suited for | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Duluth Forge Ventless Natural Gas Fireplace | Indoor heating with a finished mantel | Natural gas fireplace |
| Empire Comfort Systems Deluxe Firebox | A customizable fireplace project | Vent-free firebox |
| ONLYFIRE 60-Inch Propane Fire Pit Table | Outdoor entertaining | Propane fire table |
| Skyflame 24-Inch Round Wind Guard | Round outdoor fire pits | Glass wind guard |
| Caodoc Rectangular Fire Pit Wind Guard | Compatible rectangular fire tables | Glass wind guard |
Duluth Forge Ventless Natural Gas Fireplace
Best for: Buyers seeking an indoor natural gas fireplace with an integrated mantel and stated heating output. It produces 26,000 BTUs and is described as heating spaces up to 1,350 square feet. Its thermostat control is a useful distinction for shoppers comparing fireplace options with temperature control.
The white furniture-style mantel has light distressing and burnished edges. Five hand-painted ceramic fiber logs and a dual precision-ported burner provide a wood-like flame display. This combination makes it a more complete décor-and-heating choice than a standalone firebox.
Consider: This model is specified for natural gas, so it is not the right choice if you need a propane unit. Confirm the product’s installation requirements and suitability for your room before purchasing.
Empire Comfort Systems Deluxe 42-Inch Firebox
Best for: Buyers planning a customizable indoor fireplace rather than a finished mantel-and-fireplace package. This 42-inch vent-free firebox is designed to give shoppers flexibility in the look of the finished installation.
The listed options include different liners, doors, louvers, frames, and mantels. Hem-bent seams are intended to create a superior seal while reducing the need for many screws and fasteners. Choose this firebox if the ability to select surrounding design components matters more than getting a complete mantel design in one product.
Consider: The firebox description does not specify a burner, fuel type, or heating output. Verify what additional components are required and whether they suit your planned setup before ordering.
ONLYFIRE 60-Inch Propane Fire Pit Table
Best for: Outdoor spaces where a large fire feature can also serve as a gathering focal point. The 60-inch table is designed for patios and outdoor entertaining, and its listed output is 60,000 BTU. A flame-control knob lets users adjust flame height and intensity.
The product uses propane and is described as having a user-friendly ignition system, a safety valve, and lava rocks. It connects to a standard 20-pound propane tank, which is not included. Compared with the indoor products in this list, it is the clear choice for buyers looking for an outdoor propane fire table.
Consider: The propane tank is sold separately. Confirm that the table’s size fits your intended outdoor area and follow the product’s operating instructions.
Skyflame 24-Inch Round Glass Wind Guard
Best for: Owners of a compatible round outdoor gas fire pit who want a glass wind shield. The 24-inch round guard is described as fitting fire pit openings of approximately 19 inches. It is made from tempered glass with polished edges and includes brackets and feet.
The shield is intended to protect flames from wind and help keep the flame centered. Its reflective glass can also make the flame more prominent. Choose it over a rectangular guard when your fire feature is round and its measurements match the stated fit.
Consider: Fit depends on the fire pit’s dimensions. Measure the opening before purchase rather than relying on the product’s round shape alone.
Caodoc Rectangular Tempered Glass Wind Guard
Best for: Buyers seeking a rectangular guard with tempered-glass panels, aluminum corner brackets, and nonslip feet. The listing describes 0.2-inch-thick glass, smooth edges, and heat-resistant rubber feet to support stability.
This option is better for shoppers whose fire table matches its assembled dimensions and layout. The listing also advises measuring the fire pit before selecting a guard. Check the exact dimensions carefully: the product name and feature description present different dimension information, so confirm the intended size before ordering.
Consider: Do not assume it will fit every rectangular table or fire pit. The listing mentions a fit for Caodoc fire tables, making measurement and model verification especially important.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Gas Fire And Surround
Do you need an indoor fireplace or an outdoor fire feature?
Start with placement. The Duluth Forge unit is an indoor natural gas fireplace with a mantel, while the Empire product is a vent-free firebox for a more customizable project. The ONLYFIRE table is an outdoor propane option. Wind guards are accessories for compatible outdoor fire features, not complete fireplaces.
Which fuel type do you need?
Match the product to the fuel available for your setup. The Duluth Forge fireplace is listed for natural gas, while the ONLYFIRE table uses propane and requires a separate 20-pound tank. The firebox listing does not state a fuel type, so check its documentation and required components.
How should you compare surrounds and fit?
Decide whether you want a finished mantel or a build-your-own look. The Duluth Forge unit includes a white mantel; the Empire firebox offers choices for liners, doors, louvers, frames, and mantels. For glass guards, measure the fire pit opening and compare it with the listed dimensions. Round and rectangular guards are not interchangeable by appearance alone.
What details should you verify before buying?
- Confirm the fire feature’s intended location, fuel, and installation requirements.
- Compare the product’s stated dimensions with the available space and fire pit opening.
- Check whether the listing includes necessary components; the ONLYFIRE propane tank is not included.
- For a customizable firebox, identify any additional components needed for the finished installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all gas fireplaces compatible with natural gas and propane?
No. The Duluth Forge model is listed for natural gas, and the ONLYFIRE fire table is listed for propane. Check the specific product’s stated fuel before choosing.
Is a firebox the same as a complete fireplace?
Not necessarily. The Empire product is a vent-free firebox with customizable surrounding components. Its listing does not specify a burner, fuel, or heating output.
How do I choose a fire pit wind guard?
Measure the fire pit opening and compare it with the guard’s listed dimensions. Also match the guard shape to the fire feature’s layout.
Does the ONLYFIRE fire table include a propane tank?
No. Its product details state that a standard 20-pound propane tank is required but not included.
Is the Caodoc guard suitable for every rectangular fire pit?
No universal fit is stated. Check the assembled dimensions and verify that they match your specific fire table before buying.