One of the most beautiful and practical ways to spruce up your home's dcor is with the addition of a gas fireplace or fireplaces, if your budget allows.

Today, gas fireplaces are available in every style and size imaginable to fit your every decorating need or whim. From classic marble to rustic wood, you can find it all in a gas fireplace.

And today's fireplaces are designed to look exactly like wood-burning fireplaces complete with logs and realistic flames. So you do not have to worry about cutting atmospheric corners when you choose a gas fireplace. There are three types of gas fireplaces including top vented, direct vented and vent less fireplaces.

The type you choose will depend mainly on the construction of your home and how you plan to use your gas fireplace.

Top vented gas fireplaces are vented through an existing chimney or through a newly installed vent pipe which goes through the ceiling. These fireplaces are more popular in new constructions or single story homes for obvious reasons.

Top vented fireplaces, as with other gas fireplaces, can be equipped with remote control, thermostatic and blower features. Depending on what you choose, these fireplaces cost anywhere from $600 to $2,500.

Direct vented fireplaces are vented straight through the wall directly above the fireplace. This gives you many options when it comes to the placement of your gas fireplace, and this venting structure also pulls in fresh air from outside to be used in combustion so that no air from the home is being used by your fireplace.

Direct vented gas fireplaces are also very easy to install. Expect to spend from $1,000 to $2,500 on this type of fireplace depending on your tastes and budget.

Vent less gas fireplaces require no vents but do come with certain restrictions. While these fireplaces can be placed almost anywhere, even directly against a wall, they are only recommended for occasional, attended and supplementary use.

If you do not plan on using your fireplace as a main heating source or when you are away from the home, a vent less fireplace could be the perfect option for your home. This type of gas fireplace is also the least expensive with prices ranging from $400 to $1,500.

So if you are looking for that perfect accent piece for your dcor, perhaps a gas fireplace will do the trick. Imagine owning an elegantly carved, breathtakingly beautiful fireplace complete with a marble mantle, and you don't have to pack any wood. Just simply turn a knob and enjoy the warmth, comfort and beauty that a gas fireplace can bring.