Is Fireplace Installation Possible in My Home?
Adding a fireplace to an existing home is certainly achievable; the key lies in determining the best type for your space. It’s crucial to first familiarize yourself with your local building codes, as they specify requirements for fireplace installation, such as minimum clearances around vent pipes and limits on fireplace emissions. Fireplaces generally fall into one of three main categories: gas, masonry, and zero-clearance (which includes prefabricated or manufactured fireplaces).
Direct-Vent Gas Fireplaces
For the easiest installation, a direct-vent gas fireplace is often the preferred choice. This type of fireplace can be installed on any exterior wall, venting directly out through the back. Gas fireplace installation typically takes approximately a day to a day and a half. While you won’t experience the distinct sounds and aroma of a wood fire, gas fireplaces readily provide ambiance to any room and often deliver more warmth than a traditional wood-burning fireplace. Furthermore, gas fireplaces offer instant ignition with the flip of a switch, and they are remarkably easy to clean and maintain.
Wood-Burning Masonry Fireplaces
To install a wood-burning masonry fireplace, you will need sufficient space above for a chimney to extend through the roof. In two-story houses, the options for fireplace placement might be more limited. However, you can often find the 12- to 14-inch (approximately 30-35 cm) space required for the chimney by enclosing a corner of a room or repurposing a spare closet. This traditional type of fireplace is what most people envision when considering fireplace installation and is typically the most expensive. It features a firebox constructed from brick or stone, a brick or stone chimney, and usually a wood mantel.
Zero-Clearance Fireplaces
If you’re seeking a more inexpensive fireplace installation, a zero-clearance or factory-built fireplace is a strong contender. These are lightweight fireplaces, frequently featuring linear designs that suit more modern aesthetics. Compared to masonry fireplaces, they are easier to install and require significantly less construction work. Because their firebox enclosures remain cool during operation, zero-clearance fireplaces can be installed in virtually any room—even directly over hardwood floors and within a few inches of existing walls. Zero-clearance fireplaces offer several fuel source options, including propane, natural gas, firewood, and pellet stoves.
Credit: Helen Norman
Where Should I Put My Fireplace?
To maximize the use of your fireplace, consider installing it in the most frequently used room in your home outside of the kitchen, such as the family room or living room. For practical heating purposes, placing it in a smaller, easy-to-heat room like a primary bedroom, office, or spare bedroom might be more efficient. Regardless of the room you choose, ensure that its floor joists are reinforced to support the additional weight. You should also factor in the firebox’s dimensions and thickness, the size of the damper opening, and the type of chimney and liner that will be used.
Always refer to your local building codes for detailed specifications regarding these considerations, as well as the minimum distance required between a fireplace and combustible materials. Some building codes mandate modifications to the house framing to accommodate the increased weight of the fireplace installation. This typically applies to masonry fireplaces, though it may also be necessary for chimney installation depending on its size and weight.
How Much Does Fireplace Installation Cost?
According to HomeGuide, on average, installing a new metal prefabricated gas or wood-burning fireplace costs between $1,900 and $5,600, plus labor. An electric fireplace costs between $100 and $2,200, plus labor. A masonry fireplace, installed in an existing home with a 12-foot (approximately 3.66 meters) chimney, costs an average of $3,500-$5,600.
Do You Need a Professional for Fireplace Installation?
While it’s possible to undertake a DIY installation of an electric fireplace, it is strongly recommended to hire a professional for the installation of a wood-burning fireplace with a chimney or a direct-vent gas fireplace. Building a chimney or installing a gas line involves complex projects that require specialized knowledge and adherence to safety regulations.