Hi everyone,

I’m thinking about getting a wood burning stove but could use some guidance since I know very little about them. I live in a ranch-style home and already have gas for cooking, so I'm also wondering if I should just go with a gas stove instead. I have a few questions: Heating Capacity – Can a wood burning stove heat the whole house? What about gas stoves? Permits – Do I need permits for either installation (wood or gas)? Heat and Dryness – Do wood stoves make the house too hot or dry? Is this something to worry about with a gas stove too? Firewood – If I go with a wood burning stove, what is the firewood procurement process like? Ventilation – How is ventilation typically handled? Can you vent through the wall, or does it have to go through the ceiling? Hearth/Wall – I’d also need a hearth/wall to put the stove on. Is that a separate company I’d need to hire or shop for? Costs and Buying – Any recommendations on where to buy a wood burning stove (or a gas one if that's better)? How much should I expect to pay for the stove and installation? Thanks in advance for any advice you can share!