How to Budget for a Gas Fireplace
A gas fireplace unit can range from approximately $3,000 to $15,000 just for the base unit, depending on the model and features you choose. However, the fireplace is only one part of a greater whole. Your total project may also include:
Permits & Inspection
Permit and inspection requirements vary by municipality and project. Check what’s required before installation and let your local fireplace specialist or contractor help guide you through the process. A professional inspection is required after gas hookup and may also be required after framing and installation are complete, especially if structural changes are involved.
Installation
Many fireplace specialists do include some sort of installation package. This can cover gas, electrical, and venting up to a certain distance from the unit. Before you make your purchase, clarify what is included with your purchase when discussing the project with your local dealer.
Gas Line
If there is not an existing gas line, a new one will have to be run to your fireplace unit. The cost will depend on the distance and complexity of the installation.
Electrical
Depending on the location of your fireplace, new wiring and plugs, even switches may need to be installed. This requires a licensed electrician, and pricing will vary by location.
Venting
The location of your fireplace will have a direct impact on venting, determining the amount and type of venting required for the job.
Venting costs can increase when:
- The fireplace is located far from an exterior wall
- A longer or more complex venting route is required
- Venting needs to pass through the roof.
- Additional roof repair or sealing is required.
Your fireplace specialist can help determine the appropriate venting system and requirements for your specific fireplace.
Construction & Finishing
Depending on the contractor and material costs at the time, you may require wall construction, bump-outs, or other wall modifications. After the build-out and installation, the wall will need to be finished. Again, contractors, materials, and design will have a direct impact on pricing and finishing your gas fireplace.
Gas Fireplaces elevate the look and feel of any room. Many models offer multiple installation options, with dynamic heat control that lets you control and direct the flow of heat in your home. See Napoleon's full line of Gas Fireplaces:
What Can Increase Your Budget?
- Longer gas or venting runs
- Installing the fireplace away from an exterior wall
- New framing or structural modifications
- Custom surrounds and finishing
- Roof work required for venting
- Additional electrical or gas-line work
- Multiple trades or complex installation requirements
Get a detailed quote from your local fireplace specialist before purchasing so you know exactly what is and isn’t included.
What Comes with a Fireplace Purchase?
Not everything is included with the purchase of a gas fireplace.
Items not included are:
- Fireplace installation
- Gas line installation and hookup
- Electrical line installation and hookup
- Venting
- Basic finishing - installation of the purchased safety barriers, surrounds, and fronts
Plan for the Unexpected
Even the best-planned renovation can come with unexpected costs. Building flexibility into your budgets will help account for any changes once work begins.
It is of vital importance to schedule the multiple trades well and in the correct order. While it will add to the overall cost of the project, a General Contractor will coordinate the work and save in the long run by ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Your local fireplace retailer can be an excellent resource during the research stage. They can help explain what is included with the fireplace, what installation services are available, and which additional contractors may be required.
It's also worth getting quotes before making your final decision. Installation costs can vary significantly depending on your location, as well as the complexity of the project.