Costs of Adding a Fireplace

Article From HouseLogic.com


By: Rich Binsacca


Published: September 22, 2010


Installing a wood-burning, gas-burning, gel-fuel, or electric fireplace to your house costs $400 to $10,000, depending on the type of fireplace you select.

Installing a fireplace with a brick-lined hearth and a custom mantel can easily cost $10,000 or more. It's also possible to get a similar look for thousands of dollars less. Just shop for a ready-made unit and watch what you spend on the fireplace surround.

If your budget is really tight, a free-standing gel-fuel or electric fireplace eliminates installation costs. But be aware that some bare-bones alternatives don't completely succeed in mimicking a real wood fire.



Check local building codes for possible restrictions on the types of fireplaces that can be installed in your area.

Costs of a wood-burning fireplace
An open-hearth, wood-burning fireplace-like the ones you see in mountain resort hotels-requires the help of a skilled, professional mason and a budget approaching (and often exceeding) $10,000.



For an existing home, considerable renovation work is required, including a foundation to carry the weight of the firebox and chimney, and the cost of the chimney itself.



Expect to pay $7,000 to $10,000 or more.

Cost saver tip: Go for a drywall surround and a simple, wall-mounted mantle.


Costs of a gas-burning fireplace
A fireplace unit that burns natural gas or propane runs about $2,000 for the basic materials package. Installation and finishing typically add $2,500.

Cost saver tip: Switch to a simpler surround and mantle, and get a direct-vent fireplace so you don't need a chimney. Or, opt for a vent-free gas fireplace for $400 or so. Hiring a professional to install a gas line or a connection to a propane tank adds about $1,000.


Your least-expensive option
A gel-fuel fireplace or an electric fireplace starts under $400. With a portable unit, that's the total cost since the fireplace is ready to use once you remove the packaging.



Because there's no flue or chimney, it's easy to install TVs or other electronic gear directly above an electric fireplace. If you include a mantel package, expect to pay $800 to $1,600. One perk available: sound effects that mimic the crackle and pop of a real fire.

Ongoing costs
Estimate your energy costs by using a fuel cost comparison calculator. Gel fuel, not included in the calculator, costs $3 per 13-ounce can, enough for three hours.

For a wood-burning fireplace, figure on $100 to $200 a year for chimney cleaning. Gas fireplaces need an annual service check ($100 to $150) plus a chimney inspection. Gel-fuel and electric fireplaces don't need regular maintenance.

Tax credits for fireplaces
Through Dec. 31, 2010, you may qualify for a federal tax credit for 30% of your costs, up to $1,500, if you install a wood-burning fireplace that's at least 75% fuel-efficient.



Rich Binsacca is the author of 12 books on various home-related topics and is currently a contributing editor for Builder and EcoHome magazines. He has written articles for Remodeling, Home, and Architectural Record, among several others. He intermittently uses the wood-burning fireplace and the gas-fueled freestanding stove that came with his current home.

Reprinted from HouseLogic (houselogic.com) with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS (R).Copyright 2010. All rights reserved.