Did you know that the national average for home renovations is roughly $47,000? Whether you’re looking to remodel your kitchen or add a focal point such as a fireplace, the results are the same: you’ll increase the value of your home while seeing a return on investment.
If you’re interested in adding a feature such as a fireplace, you’re probably wondering, “What does a fireplace cost to install?”
You’ll have to factor in everything from labor to materials and what builder you hire; factors that can change the price. However, this article will walk you through the average fireplace price so you can make an informed decision. Keep reading to learn more.
Benefits of a Fireplace
If you’re looking for inspiration as you shop for fireplace ideas, it’s good to have an understanding of their countless benefits. While they’re beautiful to look at and serve as the heart of a home, they serve a purpose outside of aesthetics.
Warmth During Power Outages
If you haven’t gotten around to installing a generator yet, then a fireplace can provide heat and warmth during a power outage. Your family will have a warm, cozy fireplace to gather around until your utilities are restored.
Cooking
Some homeowners choose to install wood-burning stoves. Not only are they more energy efficient and environmentally friendly than other heating sources, but you can cook on them. If you’re a fan of homemade artisanal pizza, then a wood-burning stove is an excellent choice.
Environmentally Friendly Heating Source
If you opt for a wood-burning fireplace, you’ll rely on wood instead of a fossil-fueled energy source. This is excellent for the environment while providing a warm ambiance to your home.
Self-Reliance
For those who wish to be less reliant on energy companies, wood fireplaces provide an excellent alternative to dependence on energy companies. If you have a heavily wooded yard, you’ll have an unlimited source of firewood at your disposal.
Fireplace Cost
Fireplace price is determined by the type of fireplace you purchase, such as gas, wood-burning, or electric. Let’s take a look at each type of fireplace to gain a better understanding of what you can expect to pay.
Gas Fireplace
Gas fireplaces are ideal if you’re looking for all the ambiance of a traditional wood-burning fireplace but without the need to purchase wood.
If this is the fireplace you’re looking to install, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,280 to $4,030, on average. Vented vs vent-free fireplaces also affect the cost, with labor being higher for a vented gas fireplace.
On average, the labor for a vented gas fireplace is roughly $2,500 to $2,800. However, the labor for a vent-free fireplace is about $1,200, if not less.
The type of heating source you already have plays an integral role in the installation cost. If you don’t have an existing gas line running to your house, one will need to be installed. You can reach out to your local gas supplier to see who they recommend running the line from the road.
A benefit of gas fireplaces is that they’re very low maintenance. Since they don’t rely on wood, there’s no soot or ash to remove after you’ve used it.
Out of every fireplace option, a gas fireplace is the most efficient, as it can heat a room with very little energy. You can expect to pay roughly $60 a year to run a gas fireplace.
Wood-Burning Fireplace
When you think of fireplaces, you probably imagine logs burning over an open flame. Wood-burning fireplaces are among the most commonly used worldwide and boast a more traditional feel.
If you decide to install one, a wood fireplace costs anywhere between $700 and $30,000. This large price discrepancy is based on whether or not your home already has proper ventilation and a working chimney.
While this popular, traditional fireplace is among the most commonly used, the construction options are endless, reflecting a varied price point.
The price of your wood-burning fireplace will depend on the type/extent of masonry work done, chimney repair cost, installation of a chimney and flue, if necessary, whether or not there’s foundational work to support the fireplace’s weight, and possible removal of an existing fireplace.
Look at pictures of fireplaces you love and gain inspiration from there.
Electric Fireplace
Another great option is an electric fireplace. You’ll benefit from the ambiance of a fireplace, without actual flames. This is largely appealing to homeowners with small children and/or pets.
If you choose to install an electric fireplace, here’s what an electric fireplace costs. The price will range from as low as $100 to as high as $2,200, with some electric fireplaces being more expensive. Labor plays a large role in the overall cost, and can range from $0 to $365, on average.
Labor costs are affected if you need a new outlet installed or if you have to attach the fireplace to or sit it in a wall for stability purposes. The cost of a new outlet is roughly $150.
If you’re looking for a handyman to install your electric fireplace, you can expect to pay about $40 to $65 per hour. Handymen often charge a minimum service fee ranging from $50 to $125.
You can place an electric firebox into a masonry fireplace. You just have to close off your chimney and the damper. Once this is complete, you’ll bee to add a frame and trim around your new firebox.
Propane Fireplace
Propane fireplaces are another great option. If you install a ventless propane fireplace, you can expect to pay about $1,200. If you’re looking to convert an existing gas fireplace to a propane fireplace, you’ll pay roughly $25 to $100.
You may be wondering what the difference is in price between a gas-fueled and propane-fueled fireplace is. The price difference is the cost of fuel. Additionally, you’ll need less propane to provide an equivalent amount of heat as gas.
Although both burn clean, natural gas is a cleaner option. Natural gas burns at about $0.70 an hour and propane burns at about $2,30 an hour.
Install Your Ideal Fireplace Today
Fireplace cost is largely dependent on the type of fireplace you install and the cost of labor, along with how extensive of a job the installation process is. If you’re still wondering, “What does a luxury fireplace cost?” then be sure to contact us today for fireplace quotes.
Dreifuss Fireplaces has the experience and superior craftsmanship to create the fireplace of your dreams, and our staff is ready to assist you with all your residential and commercial fireplace needs.
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Pros and Cons of Propane Gas Fireplaces Propane gas fireplaces present distinctive advantages and disadvantages that may impact a homeowner’s decision. This is especially true regarding convenience, heat regulation, and safety features. Advantages and Disadvantages The benefits of propane gas fireplaces are notable, with exceptional heat control and enhanced safety features. However, drawbacks may manifest in fuel availability and variable heating performance. Regarding fuel accessibility, propane gas may pose challenges in certain regions compared to natural gas. This can result in logistical complexities in procuring the fuel, particularly in remote areas. While propane gas fireplaces deliver efficient heating, they may exhibit less consistent warmth than alternative heating methods. Nevertheless, propane is recognized for its clean-burning characteristics and reduced environmental footprint. 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