Fireplace installation costs an average of $2,509
On average, installing a fireplace costs an average of $2,509, with most projects ranging between $941 and $4,224.
Factors that influence your cost include fireplace type, hiring a professional installer, and ongoing maintenance and repairs.
Hiring a professional ensures proper installation and reduces risks associated with improper fireplace setup or maintenance.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
The average fireplace installation cost ranges from $941 to $4,224 for an average price of $2,509. It's important to budget accordingly and hire a professional to ensure a safe and efficient installation. Regular maintenance is essential, as actively used fireplaces require yearly care to function properly and safely.
Many homeowners still prefer to use their fireplace and chimney for heating. Installations like wood stoves or pellet stoves have replaced many traditional fireplaces because they're more compact, controllable, and efficient in heating the home. Remember to factor in ongoing costs beyond the initial installation and consider hiring a professional to keep your fireplace clean and safe from creosote buildup.
If you're planning to install or replace a fireplace and chimney, you can expect to pay between $941 to $4,224, depending on your project's scope. A new installation can cost up to $8,700, while removing and rebuilding an existing structure might range from $1,000 to $15,000. Keep in mind that extensive repairs can push costs higher.
Whether you're installing a new fireplace or removing and rebuilding an existing one, costs can vary widely. Here’s a breakdown of average fireplace installation and maintenance costs by task:
Task | Average Cost |
---|---|
Fireplace and chimney removal | $4,000 |
Chimney rebuild | $1,000–$5,000 |
Chimney replacement | $15,000 |
Fireplace repairs | $90–$280 |
Fireplace replacement | $150–$8,700 |
Your fireplace installation costs will vary depending on the type of fireplace you choose. Work with your fireplace installer to determine the best type of fireplace for your home and needs. Here are the main fireplace options.
If you're thinking about installing a wood stove, costs range from $325 to $4,000. If you prefer an insert over a free-standing model, you might spend around $2,000. Cast iron stoves typically cost at least $300 more than steel panel models. And if your stove can't vent into an existing chimney, you may need to install a chimney pipe, which could add up to $3,300 to your total cost.
Gas fireplace installations typically cost between $2,500 and $10,000. If you need to install a gas line, plan on $200 for labor and $3,600 for the gas insert.
Electric fireplace installations are typically priced between $200 and $10,000. This style does not need a chimney since there’s no smoke or gases to vent outside. The installation may include the placement of a dedicated 120-volt outlet near the fireplace. Hiring an electrician to install wiring for an electric fireplace costs between $150 and $200.
Basic chimney cleaning costs an average of $255 and should be done once a year. If your chimney has been neglected, you might pay up to $800 to have it cleaned. Chimney inspections cost between $100 and $5,000 and can reveal the need for repairs like repointing. Often, inspections include cleaning services if done at the same time.
Chimney repairs can vary widely. While minor repairs are more affordable, significant repairs can cost up to $5,000, and a complete chimney replacement may reach $15,000. You can also expect to pay an average of $1,500 for brick repointing. If your chimney is leaning, it might cost around $3,000 to repair.
Even if you’re handy around the house, hiring a professional fireplace installer is wise. A pro can properly install your fireplace and ensure that ventilation and gas lines or electrical components are properly connected for safety purposes. They can also provide expert advice on maintenance and correctly repair any fireplace areas that need improvement.
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
An outdoor fireplace and chimney can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $20,000. If you love the look of stone, expect costs up to $11,000, while metal options can start around $100. Adding an outdoor fireplace enhances your home's curb appeal and creates a cozy space for gatherings.
If you do it yourself, chimney closing doesn't cost anything. You'll need to clean out all debris from the fireplace and securely seal the flue to prevent drafts. Even though closing the chimney doesn't require a fee, it's a good idea to schedule a professional inspection and thorough cleaning before you use the fireplace again to ensure safety and optimal performance.
To waterproof your chimney, you'll want to seal it properly to keep moisture out. This involves filling any cracks with quality mortar and adding a sturdy chimney cap or crown. These steps help protect your chimney’s structure from water damage, ensuring it stays safe and functional for years to come.
Fireplaces can boost your home's value if they're well-built and properly maintained. A quality fireplace becomes a stunning focal point that enhances your home's look and appeal. With an attractive design and good functionality, you'll increase buyer interest and your property's market value. On the other hand, neglect or poor repairs can lessen these benefits.
Fireplaces can help lower your heating bills when you use them to warm a single area of your home. By focusing the heat where you need it most, you can turn down the thermostat elsewhere and save energy. However, if you don't maintain and use your fireplace efficiently, it might actually increase your energy costs instead of reducing them.
The lifespan of your fireplace depends on its type. Gas inserts typically last between 10 and 25 years, electric fireplaces can work well for up to 20 years, and traditional brick fireplaces can last for centuries if you take good care of them. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will help keep your fireplace safe and durable for as long as possible.