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Yes, it is possible to convert a wood-burning fireplace to gas. The average cost for this conversion is $3,000, with a typical range of $500 to $5,500. The project involves running a gas line, professionally cleaning the chimney, and installing gas logs.

Cost factors include the type of gas fireplace and whether a new gas line is needed. Installing a natural gas line can add $200 to $1,000 to the cost. Vented gas fireplaces are more expensive, averaging around $5,000, while ventless options are more cost-effective at about $1,500.

Pellet stoves are used as heat sources for homes. They work by burning biomass pallets, which might be composed of wood, sawdust, or food waste. The pellets are stored in the stove's hopper until the stove is ignited, at which point some are released into the stove's firebox to burn for heat. Unlike most fireplaces, pellet stoves have a thermostat that adjusts the temperature by releasing more or fewer pellets, depending on how warm you want to make your living space.

Shiplap can be safe for a gas fireplace, but you should consult with a fireplace installation pro before proceeding. You need to make sure your project meets building and safety codes since shiplap is made from flammable wood. You may need to install another non-combustible material, like stone or brick, around the fireplace for a certain amount of space before you can add shiplap.

Even if you aren’t using a home chimney anymore, you need to vent it at the top and bottom to allow for continuous airflow. A blocked-up chimney is still a chimney, so it requires annual maintenance and a professional inspection to ensure its structural integrity is intact. Consult a chimney professional about the ideal timing for venting an unused chimney.