Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - Gas Logs

I went through almost all of the gas fireplace log messages before I asked this question. The reason I am installing gas logs is because I think the flue is damaged (it was wood burning). Is there enough heat going up the flue to worry about this? Would one be better as opposed to another (vent/ventless) for putting less heat up the flue? If I have to pay to repair the flue and gas logs/screen etc. this might put me out of it for awhile. I am sure if I ask a sweep they will tell me gloom and doom.:(

If you go the ventless direction, you should not have a problem. You just have to live with a less-than-realistic flame.

My inlaws have a ventless. I generated ALOT of heat and raises the humidity level. It almost is too hot!

We decided on venting ours because we liked the way the flame flickered. Yes we lose heat, but it is there for looks, not heat.

The ventless models we looked at recommened cracking a window in the room.

Our gas logs are both great for cosmetic and utilitarian reasons. We have the chimney blocked so we get the benefit of the heat in winter, but it's also nice to look at. Believe me, if you are in an area that could have a bad spell of weather and be without power in freezing temperatures, you'll appreciate it. Of course you won't have to worry about having wet firewood again...:p