Types of Wood Burning Fireplaces by Acucraft

Acucraft offers diverse wood-burning fireplaces for different architectural styles and spaces. Each combines quality craftsmanship, fixed firebox sizing, and strong safety certification.

Models include single-sided, see-through/double-sided, and indoor/outdoor fireplaces.

For everything from large gathering spaces to cozy living rooms, the Hearthroom Series delivers dramatic flame views and flexible design options.

Below are the primary types, with their features and what makes each ideal for certain spaces.

Single-Sided Wood-Burning Fireplaces

Description & Style:

Single-sided wood fireplaces are the classic, traditional front-facing fireplaces. They offer a single view of the fire, typically against a wall, and are well-suited to become the focal point of a room.

When to Use:

Use these where you want a strong focal point in one room, for example, a living room, den, or family room. They are especially suitable for homes with a single main gathering area.

Design Flexibility:

Available in various sizes (compact to large viewing areas). They can be finished with different facades (such as stone, wood, or plaster) by the installer.

See-Through (Double-Sided) Wood-Burning Fireplaces

Description & Style:

See-through or double-sided fireplaces offer views of the flame from two separate spaces. For example, they might divide a living room and dining room, or a great room and a master suite.

When to Use:

Ideal if you want to connect two adjacent spaces visually, or want fire visible from more than one vantage point. They provide ambiance and warmth in multiple areas simultaneously.

Design Flexibility:

A see-through fireplace should be thoughtfully integrated into the layout, serving both sides with equal impact. Proper venting and safety are essential, and selecting the right size ensures a balanced, proportional design that enhances the flow of the entire space.

Indoor/Outdoor Wood-Burning Fireplaces

Description & Style:

These fireplaces are purposefully designed to blur the line between indoors and out, bringing the warmth of a real wood fire to both spaces. One side opens to a patio or porch, while the other invites comfort into your interior living area, seamlessly connecting the two.

When to Use:

Excellent for homes or commercial properties that have indoor/outdoor living environments, patios, screened porches, or places with strong indoor/outdoor flow.

Design Flexibility:

When designing an indoor/outdoor fireplace, every detail matters. From venting to weather exposure, the surrounding materials must be suited for both interior and exterior conditions. Proper installation ensures the structure withstands thermal shifts and moisture, delivering lasting performance and peace of mind.

UL-Approved Wood Fireplaces

Safety & Standards:

All of Acucraft’s Hearthroom wood fireplaces are certified to UL-127 (for the U.S.) and ULC-S610 (for Canada) standards. This means they meet rigorous safety, material quality, and building code requirements.

When to Use:

Certifications provide assurance for homeowners, architects, and contractors that the fireplace performs reliably, safely, and per code.

The American Wood Fireplace

Description & Style:

The American Series wood burning fireplaces are engineered to deliver an authentic and enduring fireside experience. Handcrafted in the U.S., these fireplaces feature tall, modern viewing areas, supplemental warmth, and versatile options including: single-sided, see-through, and indoor/outdoor styles. The American Series combines timeless styling with dependable performance, creating a welcoming focal point for cabins, living rooms, patios, and beyond.  

When to Use:

Perfect for homeowners who want a timeless, bold fireplace in a primary gathering space such as a great room, lodge, or traditional living room.

Design Flexibility:

While the firebox size is  fixed, finishes and surrounds can be customized by installers to match rustic, modern, or luxury interiors.

The Hearthroom Wood Fireplaces

Description & Style:

The Hearthroom Series is Acucraft’s most versatile and dramatic collection, offering the largest viewing areas. They are available in 30-inch, 36-inch, 44-inch, and 48-inch widths, and come in multiple styles, including single-sided, see-through, and indoor/outdoor.

When to Use:

Ideal for projects where the fireplace needs to dominate visually—such as large living spaces, open floor plans, or spaces that connect indoors and outdoors.

Design Flexibility:

Choose between different door styles, finishes, and configurations. The Hearthroom series allows you to match the fireplace to your architectural vision while retaining certified firebox safety and performance.

Wood Burning Fireplaces Sizes:

Compact Wood Fireplaces

Description & Style:

Compact wood fireplaces are designed for smaller living spaces while still delivering the warmth and ambiance of a real wood fire. The most compact option features a 20″ x 21″ viewing area with a single door.

When to Use:

Perfect for cabins, modern family rooms, or cozy nooks where a large firebox would feel overwhelming.

Design Flexibility:

Even compact fireplaces can be enhanced with different materials and finishes to complement your home’s décor.

Large Wood Fireplaces

Description & Style:

Large wood fireplaces are designed to make a bold statement, with expansive viewing areas ranging from 30 inches up to 48 inches wide. These fireplaces are perfect for open layouts, grand rooms, or commercial settings where impact is key.

When to Use:

Best for lodges, resorts, and large residential homes where the fireplace serves as a centerpiece of the space, and conversation starter.

Design Flexibility:

Available in single-sided, see-through, and indoor/outdoor designs. Installers can finish the exterior with stone, brick, steel, or custom facades for maximum impact.

Comparison of Acucraft Wood-Burning Fireplaces

Type Description & Style When to Use Design Flexibility
Single-Sided Wood Fireplaces Classic, traditional front-facing fireplaces with one viewing side. Ideal as the focal point of living rooms, dens, or family rooms. Multiple sizes, finish with stone, wood, plaster, etc.
See-Through (Double-Sided) Fireplaces Flames visible from two sides; connects adjoining spaces. Great for linking living & dining rooms or indoor/outdoor layouts. Balance of proportions and proper venting needed.
Indoor/Outdoor Fireplaces Open to both interior and exterior spaces. Perfect for patios, screened porches, and open-flow living spaces. Must handle weather exposure & thermal shifts.
UL Approved Fireplaces Certified to UL-127 (U.S.) & ULC-S610 (Canada). For homeowners & contractors requiring safety/code assurance. Provides reliable, code-compliant performance.
American Wood Fireplace Grand, traditional design highlighting large flames. Best for great rooms, lodges, and traditional interiors. Fixed firebox; installers customize surrounds/finishes.
Hearthroom Wood Fireplaces Most versatile; largest viewing areas (30″–48″). Ideal for large spaces, open floor plans, or indoor/outdoor use. Options for doors, finishes, and styles.
Compact Wood Fireplaces Smaller designs with a 20″ x 21″ viewing area. Great for cabins, cozy dens, or smaller living rooms. No options
Large Wood Fireplaces Expansive designs with up to 48″ wide views. Perfect for grand rooms, resorts, and large residential spaces. Offered in single-sided, see-through, & indoor/outdoor styles.

How to Choose the Right Type

When selecting among these types of wood fireplaces, consider these factors:

Factor What to Ask / Think About
Space & layout Is it one room? Two rooms? Will people view the fire from more than one side?
Interior flow / indoor-outdoor connection Do you want the fireplace to open outdoors? Should it be visible from both inside and outside?
Style & aesthetic Do you prefer a traditional look, rustic lodge, modern lines, or something more intimate?
Size & viewing area How large is the wall or opening? Will a large viewing area overwhelm the space or fit well?
Safety & code compliance Ensure the fireplace is UL / ULC listed, and that installation (venting, clearances) meets code.

Acucraft’s Key Points:

Acucraft does not offer custom firebox sizes for wood fireplaces; they’re pre-engineered.

Acucraft does not provide the finishing materials (tile, brick, mantels) — these are handled by the installer or homeowner.

Acucraft doesn’t do installation itself; but will work closely with your installer to ensure a seamless installation.

Emphasis on craftsmanship, quality, durability, and flame experience.

Size Categories & Viewing Areas

Acucraft also organizes its wood fireplaces by size / viewing area, which is a critical consideration in both aesthetic impact and spatial fit.

  • Compact Fireplaces: Smaller viewing areas (for example, a tall 20-inch by 21-inch view with a single door). Ideal when space is limited.
  • Hearthroom Series: Larger models ranging from 30″ to 48″ viewing area in several of the styles above (single-sided, see-through, indoor/outdoor). These provide expansive flame views and a strong visual presence.

FAQs: Best Types of Firewood for Wood Burning Fireplaces

  1. What type of firewood burns the longest in a wood fireplace?

Hardwoods such as oak, hickory, and maple burn longer and produce more consistent heat compared to softwoods. They are ideal for extended burn times in Acucraft wood burning fireplaces.

  1. Is softwood like pine good for wood fireplaces?

Softwoods such as pine ignite quickly and are great for starting fires. However, they burn faster and produce more creosote, so they are best used as kindling rather than the main fuel source.

  1. Can I burn green (freshly cut) wood in my fireplace?

No. Green or unseasoned wood contains high moisture content, leading to excessive smoke, poor heat output, and creosote buildup. Always use seasoned firewood with at least 6–12 months of drying time.

  1. Which firewood provides the best aroma for indoor fireplaces?

Cherry, apple, and other fruitwoods are popular for their pleasant aroma when burned. They also provide a steady flame, making them a great choice for entertaining spaces.

  1. How can I tell if my firewood is properly seasoned?

Seasoned firewood feels lighter, has visible cracks at the ends, and produces a hollow sound when struck together. Properly seasoned wood ensures efficient burning and reduced smoke.