Nothing screams cozy winter dreams like curling up in front of a fireplace with a warm cup of hot chocolate (or mulled wine) and a good book. Not every home is lucky enough to have a fireplace, but that doesn’t mean a fireplace addition is out of the question. In this article, we break down the varying costs of installing a fireplace and the different types of fireplaces. You’ll feel cozy and warm with all your fireplace knowledge!

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Cost

There is a huge range of cost for installing a fireplace (depending on what type of fireplace you go with). You also have the option of installing a pre-fabricated fireplace or building one from scratch - which will of course affect the price. Electric fireplaces are the least expensive to install at anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to a couple thousand dollars, while a masonry fireplace can cost upwards of $5,000. On average, for a mid-range fireplace, you should budget around $4,000 for install and purchase of a pre-fabricated fireplace. Other costs that need to be factored in are whether or not you need a gas-line installed, if you have a chimney present or any venting needed. Real estate agents predict that a fireplace can add anywhere from $1,000-$5,000 value to your home, with more value added in colder climates (like ours!)

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Types of Fireplaces

Wood-Burning Fireplace

The oldest and most timeless type of fireplace, wood-burning fireplaces are pretty self-explanatory. Chop wood, throw it in the fireplace and enjoy the nostalgic smell and crackling sound of your fire. In order to install a wood-burning fireplace you need a chimney (typically of at least 9’). Although wood-burning fireplaces lend a specific aesthetic and atmosphere that can’t be replicated, they are probably the most expensive in terms of maintenance and efficiency. In terms of actually heating the house, wood-burning will provide the least amount of heat, as much of it is lost through the chimney. They also need to be cleaned regularly and you need to have a place to store wood. If you do have the space to store wood, however, these fireplaces do not use any additional energy so will not add to your regular energy bills.

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Gas Fireplace

Although you cannot replicate the smell and feel of a wood-burning fireplace, gas fireplaces come pretty close! Instead of relying on wood to create a fire, gas fireplaces use a gas line to create the fire, which make them much easier (and less expensive) to manage. They also allow for a larger range of aesthetic options: you can choose from artificial logs that have the appearance of real logs or a modern alternative like cannonballs or glass beads. Gas fireplaces also burn the most efficiently, and will definitely add extra heat to your home, while not requiring any cleaning - gas fireplace are definitely a low maintenance option! There will be costs associated with the installation of a gas-line and added costs to your utility bills.
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Electric Fireplace

Electric fireplaces may not have the same cozy feel as wood-burning and gas, but these technology has made these alternatives a popular option. Unlike wood-burning and gas fireplace, these fireplaces do not have an actual fire or flame but a screen that simulates the look of a fireplace while also providing heating. Electric fireplaces do not need any venting and do not require a gas line. Electric fireplaces are also very low maintenance, affordable and inherently safer (as no real flame is required). These types of fireplaces will be the lowest to purchase and install. You will need to ensure proper electrical installation and this will add to your regular electricity bills. As with gas fireplaces, you can typically control the size of the “flame” and heat. Many newer models also come with timers to automatically turn off so you don’t have to worry about the electricity running all night.

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- Need assistance in managing your fireplace addition? Contact us today!