Gas Fireplace Costs

There is something deeply comforting and cozy about a fireplace, and it is why so many people look to add one to almost any room in the house. A gas fireplace is actually one of the easiest. This is because there are many pre-made options that need a bit of work to install, but which are nearly turnkey. There is an array of options from which to choose, though, and many factors affecting the final costs.

Today, you can find electric fireplaces, gel fuel fireplaces, and more traditional wood or gas, and each has its pros and cons. They each can be built of different materials, but it is gas that has the widest range of choices.

Gas fireplace installation: 30” width fireplace to heat a 250 sq.ft. room.

Gas fireplace installation: by material type.

Other considerations and costs

• If a lot of choices are important in the decision-making process, the gas fireplace is likely to be one of the wisest options. There is the need for the firebox and then the mantelpiece or surround can be one of those options outlined above.
• Part of the installation process is running gas lines, and though it will cost between $200 and $300 or more to run existing gas lines to the firebox, if there are no existing gas services in the home, this can boost the total cost by $800 or more in order to get gas services started and running.
• If the home already has a classic, wood-burning fireplace, there is always the option to have a gas-burning insert mounted inside of the existing space. This is identical to the more familiar wood-burning inserts but comes with the costs of running gas lines and doing all of the finish work. The total price, including the insert, materials and labor can average from $3,700 to almost $8,000.
• Adding a chimney to the home may be necessary, and the average cost for a 12’ x 12’ chimney is $1,200, with the liner costing around $160 per foot. Other extras include fake logs at $250 or more, a formal mantel, and enclosures that rely on glass doors and which average around $400.

Check out our guide if you need a loan for your home improvement project.

DIY considerations

• It is best to turn to experts for the safest results.

References

• Craftsman Estimator Costbook, complete series year 2019.
• Latest prices found on Home Depot and other vendor Web sites.
• Literature review of DIY Web sites.