How Much Does It Cost to Install a Fireplace or Wood Stove Yourself?
You can buy what you need to install a simple and basic fireplace on your own for just a few hundred dollars. But installation should be left to a pro.
On average, you can expect to pay $2,180 for a professional fireplace installation. But you’ll gain instant access to safety, insurance, local building codes and regulations, and experience when you work with a fireplace installer in your area.
Some fireplaces, like a hanging electric fireplace that doesn’t require any wiring, are simple enough installations for most homeowners to handle. You can also opt to DIY a pellet stove installation, which is a fairly straightforward process. The project will cost you about $800 to $5,000 in materials for the pellet stove, assuming you already have the necessary tools. An outdoor fire pit is also a DIY option. But when it comes to installing a brand-new fireplace, you should call a pro.
Fireplace Installation Cost Breakdown
Fireplace installation costs range so greatly because no install is like the next. They’re all unique, based on the following factors.
Gas Line Installation
There are many different types of fireplaces, and not all are fueled by gas. But if you need a new line installed, you'll pay between $120 and $1,350.
Ventilation
Whether you’re reconfiguring an existing fireplace or adding a new one, there’s always plenty of ventilation work to be done. You can expect to pay between $400 and $2,000 for this portion of the install cost.
Labor
The more complicated the installation, the more labor you’ll pay. For example, the labor cost for a wood-burning fireplace is around $2,180, while an electric fireplace insert will only run you $225.
The type of fireplace or stove you want to install will affect how high or low the labor costs are due to complexity, wiring, masonry work, any necessary repairs, ventilation, and more.
Wiring
For electric fireplaces, wiring can run between $140 and $200 on average.
Remodeling
For installs in existing construction, you may need to remove walls or reconfigure a room’s layout to best accommodate a fireplace. The price can vary but certainly increases with complexity.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Fireplace by Type?
While there are plenty of individual factors to consider, it really comes down to type when determining the average cost of installing a fireplace or wood stove.
Here are the numbers to keep in mind with fireplace and wood stove installation costs.
Electric
An electric fireplace is easy to operate and maintain. You’ll likely need to pay for wiring installation and, depending on how often you use your fireplace, could face a higher utility bill.
The average cost of installing an electric fireplace is between $150 and $300. You can expect installation costs to be on the lower end for an electric fireplace insert that’s installed into a pre-existing wood or stone fireplace.
Wood
Gauging the cost of installing a wood fireplace is more difficult. If you’re installing a wood-burning fireplace insert, you’ll pay between $700 and $6,500.
But if you’re constructing and installing a wood-burning fireplace from scratch, you could pay upwards of $30,000. Higher numbers are more likely if you need foundation work to hold up the weight of a new fireplace.
Gas
A gas fireplace can cost between $2,500 and $10,000. Expect to pay more if you need to install a gas line with a complicated route. Converting a wood-burning fireplace to gas has a different process and price point though.
Wood Stove
Though similar in function, a wood stove offers unique advantages to fireplaces. They’re much better for heating and have more placement options. They’re also better for the environment. Wood stove prices start at $325 and run up to $4,000 or more. Installation costs between $3,000 and $4,000. Follow these guidelines for moving a wood stove safely, or hire a pro to move and install it for you.
What Factors Influence the Cost to Install a Fireplace?
A simple and traditional brick fireplace may cost as little as a few hundred dollars, but for a fireplace that requires a complete room overhaul, you could be looking at tens of thousands of dollars.
Size
You can build a fireplace in a variety of sizes. Though there are exceptions, it’s safe to say that the larger your fireplace, the more it will cost to install.
Material
The firebox is rarely the most expensive material when installing a fireplace. It’s everything that goes around the firebox that can quickly add up. Less expensive materials include simple tile or brick in a plain design. A more intricate design, like herringbone, can add more to the labor portion of your bill.
If you choose a more expensive material for the face, like marble or sourced stone, your materials can quickly reach the higher end of your budget. Finally, you’ll also need to consider materials for the mantle and hearth as well.
Vent
The average ventilation system for a fireplace costs between $10 and $20 per linear foot. You’ll need to be aware of local ventilation regulations along with the option of a vent-free fireplace.
A pro can help you navigate your options and find the most affordable and safe ventilation system. Just remember to install carbon monoxide detectors in any room with a fireplace as a safety precaution.
Working With a Pro for Fireplace or Wood Stove Installation
In most cases, working with a professional to install your fireplace is recommended. If you do decide to take on your fireplace install project on your own, make sure to have a professional inspect your project before starting, about halfway through, and at the end. This will ensure your fireplace is sturdy and safe. Look into hiring a local wood stove services company today.
