Best fireplace pros near Newfield, NJ

You shouldn’t remove a fireplace yourself. Before beginning this job, you’d need to know whether or not you have a load-bearing fireplace. To do that, you’d need help from a structural engineer. Plus, fireplace removals require permits and often involve working with gas lines or electricity, which can be dangerous. For all of these reasons, it’s best to hire a pro for this project.

The answer can vary widely based on a home's age and design. As with any type of remodeling project, assume that every structure is load-bearing until confirming otherwise with a structural engineer. Almost all modern homes have chimneys that are fully independent from the rest of the home's framing. As a result, they don't bear any load beyond their own weight. However, many historic homes built prior to the 1900s contain load-bearing chimneys that tie into the surrounding roof and floor joists. If possible, use a home's blueprints or look for chimney connections that indicate load-bearing qualities to get your answer.

The cost difference between a gas fireplace and a wood-burning fireplace depends on the type of wood-burning fireplace installed. The cost to install a gas fireplace tends to be cheaper than the cost to install a brick wood-burning fireplace. Installing a gas fireplace costs about $3,600 on average, whereas the cost to build a masonry wood-burning fireplace can go up to $30,000. The cost to install a wood-burning fireplace insert or stove can cost from $700 to $6,500, about the same as a gas fireplace on average.

If your gas fireplace is vented through a chimney, a chimney cap is highly recommended. While not all gas fireplaces require a traditional chimney, for those that use one, a cap provides several key benefits. It prevents rain, debris, and animals from entering the chimney, which can cause blockages or damage. A cap also helps prevent downdrafts that could push harmful gases like carbon monoxide back into your home. When installing a cap, ensure it is appropriate for a gas fireplace and does not restrict proper ventilation.