Best Wood for Burning Fireplace in St. Louis, MO

Looking for best wood for burning fireplace in St. Louis, MO? Call WoodBurningFireplace Pros for a contact a provider — no obligation. Licensed, insured certified fireplace pros serve St. Louis and the surrounding area, and you'll get straight answers on timing and what affects the price.

Last updated: September 24, 2026

What affects the price

The final cost of a wood fireplace depends on several key variables. First, consider the complexity of the installation, specifically if you require new chimney venting or structural modifications to your wall. The size and heat output capacity of the unit also play a major role, as larger models naturally cost more to source. Choosing between a prefabricated insert and a custom masonry build changes the labor intensity significantly. You might also add custom finishes, such as stone or brick surrounds, which adjust the total investment. Exact pricing confirmed free on the call.

About this service

The best wood is always seasoned hardwood, such as oak, maple, or hickory, which has been dried for at least six to twelve months. Avoid burning softwoods like pine, as they create excessive creosote buildup in your chimney. You need well-seasoned wood to ensure your fire burns hot, stays lit easily, and produces minimal smoke. If your wood is still moist, it will hiss, produce little heat, and create a messy chimney.

During the summer, your fireplace typically stays dormant, but it is actually the perfect time for upgrades. Since demand is lower, you can often find better scheduling availability for major projects like installing a new insert or repairing masonry work. By finishing these updates now, you avoid the stress of working on your hearth during the colder seasons.

Frequently asked in St. Louis

Is it worth it to have a wood-burning fireplace?

For many St. Louis residents, a wood-burning fireplace is a valuable asset, offering ambiance and supplemental heat. It can create a cozy focal point in your home and reduce reliance on your main heating system during colder months. A local pro can help you assess its worth for your specific needs and home.

What is the most efficient wood-burning fireplace?

The most efficient wood-burning fireplaces are EPA-certified units and inserts that burn fuel more completely, generating more heat with less wood. When you call for an estimate in St. Louis, you can ask about these modern, high-efficiency options that can save you money and reduce emissions.

How expensive is a wood-burning fireplace?

Will a wood-burning fireplace heat a house?

A wood-burning fireplace can effectively heat a primary living area and provide significant supplemental heat for a St. Louis home. For whole-house heating, especially in larger residences, it often works best as part of a comprehensive heating strategy. The local pros can assess your home's layout and heating requirements.

Are wood-burning fireplace inserts worth it?

What is the average cost of a wood-burning fireplace insert?

Also serving nearby: O Fallon · Springfield · Columbia · Champaign · Peoria

All cities in Missouri →

More on this: EPA Burn Wise — efficient clean burning.

Service area details

281,754residents

4,565per sq mile

—ZIP codes served

Serving all of St. Louis — population 281,754; about 4,565 residents per square mile across 61.7 sq mi.

Neighborhoods served in St. Louis: The Hill, Central West End, Soulard, Tower Grove South, Shaw Neighborhood, Benton Park — and every surrounding area.