What's not to love about fireplaces on wintry nights? They provide not only decorative appeal, but practical benefits as well: warmth, of course, and a favorable effect on home resale value. But for all the joys they bring, fireplaces also entail important concerns, safety and energy efficiency chief among them. And while wood-burning masonry fireplaces are the type that most readily come to mind when you picture hearths in the home, there are several other kinds, each with its own set of pros and cons. Indeed, fireplaces give homeowners a lot to think about, but when you're sitting beside the warm glow of flickering flames, doesn't it all seem so worth it?