What is the average cost of building a fireplace?
The cost to install a gas fireplace is $2,300 to $4,000, a traditional wood-burning fireplace runs $1,900 to $3,300, and an electric fireplace costs $100 to $2,200. Building a masonry fireplace costs $3,500 to $5,600. Here are the average prices installed, which includes the flue, vent, or chimney.
How much does it cost to insert a fireplace?
How much does a fireplace insert cost? Most fireplace inserts and a professional installation cost about $2,000 to $4,000, depending on the state of your existing chimney and the model you select. Some electric models cost significantly less, but they offer less heat output than wood and gas fireplace inserts.
How much does it cost to install a gas fireplace?
While there are many factors that can affect the installation cost of a gas fireplace, on average, people spend $2,750 for a standard installation. If you are looking at converting a wood fireplace to a gas fireplace, this can range from anywhere between $500 – $2,500.
How much to install a wood burning fireplace?
- Plaster and frieze will cost $13 per linear foot.
- Mantel shelf with custom fitting and installation, $107 per mantel.
- Installing a pine mantel ranges between $1,105 and $3,017 for a more ornate, stained piece.
Does removing a fireplace decrease home value?
But losing a fireplace can affect a home's appeal and possibly even its resale value, real estate pros say. A fireplace can particularly be viewed as a valuable amenity in colder climates, and removing one could even reduce the number of buyers drawn to a property, some agents say.
How much does it cost to remove the fireplace in the living room?
The average cost to remove a fireplace is $500 to $2,500, depending on the size, fuel type, placement, and material. A site-built stone, masonry, or brick fireplace costs more to demolish than a pre-fab fireplace insert....Cost To Remove Fireplace.TypeAverage CostElectric Insert$500 – $1,000Outdoor$500 – $2,0002 more rows
How much does it cost to dismantle a fireplace?
A partial chimney or fireplace demolition costs $500 to $2,000. A complete removal could run $4,000 to $6,000. Because chimneys are often deeply integrated into the structure of your home, it is important to invest in the cost of a structural engineer for about $500 prior to demolition.
How expensive is it to remove a brick fireplace?
Unfortunately, taking out a brick fireplace and chimney, especially on a potentially load-bearing wall, is no small task. You're looking at a minimum of $10,000 for that kind of work. It'll be a big task, involving at least a couple of dumpster loads of waste and a week or more of work in your house.
How easy is it to remove a fireplace?
If you have a more modern fireplace, such as a gas fire or electric fireplace rather than a period open fire, then removing an old fireplace surround shouldn't be too difficult. However, it does require a little DIY skill to ensure you don't make too much mess of your wall.
How can I tell if a fireplace is load bearing?
If there is a wall on top of it and that wall supports another level of your house, that's a load-bearing wall. You could also check the crawl space underneath your home to check for the signs. If you see a cinder block or a supporting beam connected with the wall in question, then that's also a load-bearing wall.
How do I remove a large fireplace?
The fireplace removal processRemove or cover furniture.Check whether the chimney breast supports any of the house's framing.Seal off doors to protect from dust.Dismantle brick-by-brick, using a cold chisel and hammer. ... Chisel out the mortar and remove the bricks to at least one foot below the roofline.More items...•
Can you remove a wood burning fireplace?
You may need to remove it for cleaning, replacement, or home renovations. Insert removal for gas and electric fireplaces always requires a professional. In some cases, you may be able to remove a wood-burning fireplace insert yourself.
Does a fireplace add value to a home?
Return on Investment A homeowner can often recover over 100 percent of the expenses associated with adding a fireplace upon selling their home. According to the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers, adding a fireplace to home can increase the resale value of the home by as much as 6-12 percent.
Does removing a chimney stack devalue a house?
They offer a traditional and cosy feel that's attractive to many homebuyers. Therefore, if you remove your chimney, you're likely to remove what many consider an asset. This will result in your home's value decreasing. You'll also make it more difficult to sell.
Can you remove fireplace wall?
Chimney breast walls, although sometimes there for cosmetics—are often constructed for structural support. If you want to rip out the wall, you'll need a professional to give it a once-over, so you won't cause irreparable damage to the rest of your home.
How do you knock out a fireplace?
Break out a plasterboard sheet, using a club hammer, or use a padsaw or jigsaw to cut around the edge of a timber board. Unscrew or lever off any supporting battens. If the fireplace has been filled in with bricks, start from the vent and slowly knock out a few at a time with a club hammer and bolster chisel.
Can you get rid of a fireplace wall?
Chimney breast walls, although sometimes there for cosmetics—are often constructed for structural support. If you want to rip out the wall, you'll need a professional to give it a once-over, so you won't cause irreparable damage to the rest of your home.
How much does it cost to remove a fireplace mantel?
A full fireplace removal costs between $4,000 and $10,000 on average, while a partial fireplace removal can cost as little as $500.
Can you remove a wood-burning fireplace?
You may need to remove it for cleaning, replacement, or home renovations. Insert removal for gas and electric fireplaces always requires a professional. In some cases, you may be able to remove a wood-burning fireplace insert yourself.
Is it a good idea to remove a chimney?
But there are reasons to have your chimney removed. Chimneys require maintenance like anything else, and if they don't get enough of it, they can start to cause problems with things like insulation, leakage, and even structural concerns—nobody wants a chimney stack to fall on their head.
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Fireplace Yourself?
We don’t recommend removing a fireplace as a DIY project. Removing load-bearing structures from your home is a serious job, and you want to know what you’re doing every step of the way. If something goes wrong, you could end up damaging the structural integrity of your house, so you should contact a local general contractor to get the job started.
How much does it cost to take out a brick fireplace?
Dear Irene: Taking out a brick fireplace and chimney, especially on a potentially load-bearing wall, is no small task. You’re looking at a minimum of $10,000 for that kind of work. It’ll be a big task, involving at least a couple of dumpster loads of waste and a week or more of work in your house.
Do I need to hire a structural engineer to remove a fireplace?
A good contractor will typically have a local structural engineer of their own to verify that it’s safe to remove your fireplace and wall. If they don’t recommend a structural engineer’s opinion, it’s a good idea to ask for one yourself.
How much does it cost to replace the firebox inside a fireplace?
The cost to replace the firebox inside a fireplace is about $600. You may also want to consider replacing it with a fireplace insert.
Should I remove my fireplace?
If you’re thinking about removing your fireplace, you should be aware that you’re losing a potentially valuable feature of your home. A fireplace can add thousands of dollars of value to your house. That said, there are some reasons why you might want to remove a fireplace, including joining two rooms together or removing a damaged or leaky chimney.
How much does it cost to demolish a fireplace?
The price to demolish a fireplace averages $500 and $2,500, but can vary widely depending on the type and placement in the home. It is possible to remove the fireplace by itself and leave the stack or chimney flue. The most important aspect of this kind of removal is reinforcement.
How much does it cost to remove an electric fireplace insert?
This is one of the easiest types to remove at an average between $600 and $2,500. You may be able to do this yourself, or hire an electrician.
What happens if a chimney liner isn't up to standard?
If a liner isn't up to standard, it may need to be replaced or upgraded. The variance in cost is due to many factors, including the condition of the chimney and the flue material. Clay, for example, costs much less than metal.
How do outdoor fireplaces work?
Outdoor fireplaces are a great solution to keeping smoke out of the house. They work by way of a boiler system, so that the fire burns in the outside fireplace and the connected boiler system heats the inside. You may want to remove yours because it produces too much smoke, has deteriorated, or you want to replace it with a different kind of heating system.
How much does it cost to remove a chimney?
Chimney removal averages between $1,000 and $10,000 depending on it's size and the extent of the demolition performed. If you're planning to take out the entire chimney system, you're probably looking to solve a number of problems. It is likely that your chimney has both structural integrity issues, and is causing spatial issues within the home. If you only need to remove or replace parts of your chimney, you're probably only dealing with one or two issues at a time. For example, if your chimney stack is leaning away from the house, it is a good idea to take it down and/or replace it. In this case, the lower part of the chimney can be left in place.
How much does a structural engineer cost for a chimney?
Because chimneys are often deeply integrated into the structure of your home, it is important to invest in the cost of a structural engineer for about $500 prior to demolition. Chimneys have become something of a novelty, and even a nuisance, to today's homeowners.
Can you remove a breast from a fireplace?
You'll notice that it takes up room in a home, which is one of the main reasons homeowners remove it. If you aren't using the fireplace, and you can see other practical uses for that space, you can remove the breast itself without demolishing the chimney stack.
No Two Fireplace Demo Jobs Are the Same
One of the things you need to know is that no two jobs are the same. This simply means the cost of fireplace demolition will vary based on several factors.
Extent of Demolition
The cost of demoing a fireplace largely depends on the extent of the job.
Debris Disposal
Every fireplace removal job produces debris. Having these clear is as important as the demolition job.
Hazards & Damage
Fireplaces built before the 1980s are likely to have asbestos as part of the construction materials used. This hazardous material will have to be handled carefully during demolition.
Fireplace Wiring
Does your fireplace have any wiring that needs disconnection? If it does, it’s best to have an electrician come over to cap and disconnect such wiring.
Removing the Hearth
As part of the demolition process, the fireplace hearth will need to be removed.
Cost of Demolishing an Outdoor Fireplace
With demolition costs of about $500 to $2,000 depending on fuel source, size, and framing, outdoor chimney removal costs aren’t much different from indoor fireplaces.
What does it cost to remove a fireplace?
To help you budget to have your fireplace removed we spoke to the online estimators at My Build Estimate – a professional estimating company monitored by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Here are some estimated, average prices from them for fireplace removal.
What are the parts of a fireplace?
There are five main parts to a fireplace that you’ll need to consider as part of the removal: Fireplace insert, stove, fire basket or open fire grate: The fire itself which is used to heat your room. Fire baskets, fire grates and stoves can contain coal, wood or other items to be ignited.
What is a chimney vent?
Chimney, flue or vent: For releasing any gases to the environment. Not essential for electric fires but other types will have one of these. Below, we look at the costs to remove the fireplace as well as capping off services. These costs do not include the removal of any chimneys or making good the space.
What is a fire basket?
Fire baskets, fire grates and stoves can contain coal, wood or other items to be ignited. Inserts generally slot neatly into the fireplace and are powered by gas or electric. Hearth: The base of your fireplace which protects the room floor from the heat.
How to break up a tile surround?
If it’s a wooden or tiled surround, it can be as simple as removing screws and lifting it away. You may need some help with tiled surrounds due to their weight. It’s also important to wear gloves and protective goggles if you choose to break them up with a sledgehammer.
How much does a coal burning stove weigh?
However, they can weigh a considerable amount, with some weighing up to 300kg. They are also very bulky, making them a real challenge to move.
Can you remove a fireplace without planning permission?
No, planning permission is not required to remove a fireplace unless it is in a listed building. However, you will need to notify the local authority building control department if removing the chimney as it is notifiable under Building Regulations. This costs around £220.
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Gas Fireplace Yourself?
Even if you’re an avid DIYer, you shouldn’t remove a gas fireplace on your own. There are many details in the project that require a professional’s eye and opinion, and the removal could impact the structural integrity of your home. At the very minimum, you’ll need to hire a local plumber with a gas fitters license and a structural engineer near you, in addition to the local contractor who will do the removal.
How much does it cost to demolish a fireplace?
Complete demolition of your fireplace and its chimney will set you back $4,000 to $10,000. With a full demolition, there’s simply more work—and more cleanup. In addition, you’ll likely need to reconstruct some walls, floors, and ceilings. Because this project could affect the structure of your home, contact a local structural engineer for advice.
Why do fireplaces cost more to remove than metal?
Fireplaces and chimneys made of brick cost more to remove than those made of metal because the material is heavier and harder to work with and to dispose of.
How long will the demolition take?
The project could take anywhere from one to five days, depending on the amount of material being removed, any refinishing that needs to be done, and the materials.
Cost to Remove a Fireplace by Type
You may have an electric insert present inside your fireplace. Removing that electric insert will cost you $750.
Cost Factors for Chimney and Fireplace Removal
You should now have a good idea of how much removing your chimney and fireplace will cost. Still, the bill you’re handed may feature a different amount due to certain cost factors. Let’s detail what those cost factors are in this section.
Related Questions
Demolishing your fireplace is not your only option if it’s constantly in the way. You can also pay professionals to relocate it to a different part of your home. The average cost of relocating a fireplace is $6,500.
How much does it cost to install a fireplace?
Fireplace installation costs between $100 and $5,600 depending on the type. The cost to install a gas fireplace is $2,300 to $4,000, a traditional wood-burning fireplace runs $1,900 to $3,300, and an electric fireplace costs $100 to $2,200. Building a masonry fireplace costs $3,500 to $5,600.
How much does an indoor outdoor fireplace cost?
An indoor-outdoor fireplace cost depends on your budget, because they can come in any size and at any price starting at about $1,900. A trim kit costs $300 to $920. If it’s not included in the price, you’ll also need to buy a kit which allows for installation on the exterior wall and includes a double glass window and a barrier screen. Wiring, connection, and installation of a heater in a closed wall costs $141 to $202.
How much does it cost to convert a gas fireplace to wood burning?
Cost To Convert Gas Fireplace To Wood-Burning. It is often possible to convert a gas fireplace to a wood-burning one for $100 to $300. However, if the fireplace is a zero-clearance or ventless fireplace with no flue to begin with, it is highly likely it cannot be converted.
How thick is a fireplace?
A typical wood-burning masonry fireplace is installed on a 12”-thick concrete foundation in a five-foot space which includes a firebox enclosed in a wall with a fireplace throat and smoke chamber, and it can include a gas valve. However, prefabricated fireplaces are much cheaper to install and cleaner to run.
How much does a fireplace add to the value of a home?
A fireplace is known for giving the best feeling of home, with a warm and cozy ambiance. Real estate agents see fireplaces adding anywhere between $1,000 and $4,999 to your home's value, especially in colder climates. We're going to compare the pros and cons of each type of fireplace and their costs.
Why vent a fireplace?
Choosing a proper venting option is critical to the efficiency and safety of your fireplace. Venting is essential to clean the smoke or polluted air out of your living room. Each manufacturer issues specific venting requirements it has determined based on several factors. Certain types of pipes and vents can only be used on certain parts of the fireplace. If you're converting a fireplace, it's likely the old pipes and vents won't be used at all.
How much does a gas log cost?
Gas log inserts cost $179 to $1,129. The $2,280 to $4,030 price of an installed gas-burning fireplace includes the price of the gas logs or gas inserts. Gas logs are available for vented or vent-free gas fireplaces.
How much does it cost to reface a fireplace?
It will cost you between $300 and $6,000 to reface a fireplace. The price depends on if you do it yourself, or hire a professional to install it. Customized stonework will cost an additional $50 to $100 per square foot and does not include any extras like enlarged mantles, or fireplace doors.
How much does a firebox cost to replace?
A firebox is typically made of some kind of stone and can range from $160 to $3,500 or more. It depends on what type of stone is used.
What is Your Existing Fireplace Made of?
A fireplace can be made of many different materials including metal, wood, stone, tile, glass, and brick. Taking apart and disposing of your old fireplace materials can cost quite a bit too. That is because you will likely have to hire a demolition laborer for that job. The average cost for removal of a standard fireplace is about $500 to $1,000.
What is the name of the shelf above a fireplace?
It is important to know the name and what each of the components are. These include the: Mantel is the shelf above the fireplace. Surround is the area around the fireplace. Firebox is the space where you burn the wood. Hearth extension is the ledge under the firebox.
What is a fireplace hearth made of?
Your fireplace hearth is another major part of the looks as well as functionality and safety. Most hearths are made of brick, stone, or concrete. However, they may also be made of tile, steel, slate, marble, or granite.
How much does a marble mantel cost?
The cost for a marble mantel ranges from $750 to $11,500. But because of how heavy it is, you may have to pay extra to beef up your foundation to handle the weight. Metal: Different types of metal such as stainless steel or brushed metal add a unique touch of bling to any fireplace.
What is the best place to put pictures on a fireplace?
Mantel . The mantel is one of the major eye-catchers of your fireplace. This is because it is right at eye-level and typically holds family photos, mementos, and other decorative items. The cost of the installation of a mantel is fairly cheap. In fact, you can usually do it yourself.
