Cast Iron Vs Plate Steel Wood Stove

Both cast iron and steel stoves are made of the same element.

Cast iron vs plate steel wood stove.

Steel stoves are made from pressed steel that s welded together. The choice between a steel wood stove and a cast iron wood stove is pretty much a matter of personal preference. What s the difference between a cast iron stove and a steel stove. Both types of stoves are clean burning and very efficient.

Traditionally cast iron was seen as the superior choice due to its heat retaining properties and durability steel in the early days often had a reputation for warping. However the positive side of this is that it can actually retain heat for much longer. Steel stoves are much easier to manufacturer and material costs are generally less than cast iron. The new steel stoves are very efficient and clean burning.

Things have moved on however and now the durability of quality steel stoves is equal to that of cast iron. Steel heats up quicker but can lose heat quicker after the fire dies. Which one should you choose. Steel stoves tend to heat up rapidly when they are turned on then cool.

One of the most important factors when it comes to comparing steel and cast iron stoves involves how you will use the stoves. One is melted and molded the other is an iron alloy. In the last few decades steel plate has become an alternative to cast iron. As cast iron is a thick and dense metal it takes longer to heat up than steel so you won t feel the warmth in your room as quickly.

Cast iron takes longer to heat up but can retain the heat for longer. Since they re made of the same stuff performance is very similar so the main differences are cost and aesthetics. In our experience a steel stove with thick top and body does retain the heat for a long time and still heats up quickly. Recent developments in the manufacturing process has enabled the steel stove manufacturer to make his stove very decorative.