How Much Do Linear Fireplaces Cost?

According to Redfin, homes with fireplaces sell for up to 13% more than the national average. This is especially true in colder climates, but the right fireplace can add aesthetic appeal no matter where you live.

Linear fireplaces are rectangular-shaped fireplaces installed directly into a wall. They’re a sophisticated addition to any room in your home with all the benefits of a gas fireplace, including good looks.

As such, they instantly uplift your home and increase its attraction to buyers.

If you’re interested in adding value to your home, keep reading to find out more about the cost of linear fireplace installations and the factors that can influence the price.

Are Fireplaces Expensive?

A new fireplace can cost between $100 and $5,600 to install when one takes labor into account. You should also consider the other costs involved.

Fuel to run your fireplace costs money, as does regular fireplace maintenance. Gas fireplaces cost more to install but they’re much cheaper to maintain than wood fireplaces.

Electric fireplaces are the cheapest of all but don’t boast the high efficiency of wood and gas fireplaces. When it comes to fuel sources for linear fireplaces, you only have two choices.

Types of Linear Fireplaces

The two main types of linear fireplaces are electric and gas models. Electric fireplaces cost an average of $700 to install and about 18 cents per hour to run.

You can run an electric fireplace from your solar panels, provided you consider the extra energy consumption when installing your solar system.

The only drawback associated with electric linear fireplaces is they’re not designed to be the primary heat source for your home as they don’t generate much heat. Some people feel they can’t match the authenticity of a wood or gas-burning fireplace.

Gas models are more expensive than the electric variety, but they produce heat more affordably. On average, a gas-burning linear fireplace costs around $1,200, plus up to $3,500 for the installation.

According to the EPA, modern gas- and pellet-burning fireplaces are up to 50% more efficient than wood-burning fireplaces. So, you will save some money on heating costs in the long term, despite the high installation cost.

Whether you choose a vented or unvented gas fireplace will also affect the price you pay.

Vent-Free Gas Linear Fireplaces

Ventless fireplaces are a popular choice as you can install them anywhere in your home and they emit more heat than the vented variety.

Since they don’t have an external venting system, any gasses created by the fire will enter your home. That means you shouldn’t run these types of fireplaces for extended periods.

Manufacturers have gone to great lengths to limit the potentially harmful effects of unvented fireplaces. Yet, it’s still wise to keep a window open while you run this type of fireplace.

Some people feel the flames created by these fireplaces look artificial.

Direct Vent Gas Linear Fireplaces

Linear direct vent gas fireplaces have double-layer pipe that passes from the fireplace through a wall to the outside of your home. This vent allows fresh air into the fireplace to keep the fire going and expels any harmful emissions outside.

Many people consider this a safer option than vent-free fireplaces.

You can expect to pay between $3,500 and $8,000 to buy and install a vented linear fireplace. This huge difference depends on the amount of work required to install the ductwork for your new fireplace.

If you’re converting an existing wood-burning fireplace, installers can vent the new fireplace via the chimney to save some costs. A new installation will mean inserting a duct through a nearby wall, which adds to the installation cost.

Factors Affecting Your Fireplace Installation

Apart from the style of fireplace you choose, your home’s design may impact the cost of installing a linear fireplace. If you’re converting an old wood-burning fireplace, you’ll need to carry out some masonry work to incorporate the new design.

A new installation into an existing wall requires a little less brickwork, but it’s relatively easy to incorporate a linear fireplace into the design of a new building.

If you want to upgrade the area around your fireplace, the costs will vary depending on the materials you want. Paint is an affordable choice, while stonework or tile can cost up to $7,500, including labor and site preparation.

Depending on your room’s design, you may need to opt for a custom linear fireplace, which could set you back between $500 and $1,000.

If you decide to install a vent-free fireplace, you may need to upgrade your home’s ventilation. This may add an extra $400 to $2,000 to the costs.

Modifying your existing gas lines to accommodate a gas fireplace can cost between $1000 and $3500, or $10 to $20 per foot.

If you opt for an electric linear fireplace, you may need to hire an electrician to install additional electricity points. This can cost up to $120 per hour, excluding materials.

Naturally, the larger the fireplace you choose, the more you can expect to pay for it, although you could save a little on alterations to the surrounding area.

Maintenance Costs

Despite the high installation costs, maintaining a gas or electric fireplace is much cheaper than caring for a wood-burning one. There are no ashes to sweep up and no soot to scrub from your fireplace surfaces.

That said, you should still pay a professional to inspect your linear fireplace at least once a year.

We Can Help You Choose Your Next Fireplace

Before you buy a fireplace, be sure to consider all the above costs. This is the best way for you to enjoy a favorable return on your investment.

If you’re not selling your home, the luxurious looks of a linear fireplace should be a top choice when upgrading your living spaces.

We can assist with a wide range of modern linear fireplaces to add a touch of luxury to any home. Browse our website for more information and reach out for a free estimate on the cost of installing your linear fireplace.