How to Budget for a Gas Fireplace Insert
Gas fireplace inserts can cost approximately $1,200 to $3,200 just for the base unit, depending on the model and selected features.
However, the fireplace insert 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 where the fireplace will be located. The cost will depend on the distance and complexity of the installation.
Electrical
Depending on the location of your fireplace insert, new wiring and plugs, and even switches may need to be installed, especially when converting a masonry or wood-burning fireplace into a more efficient gas fireplace insert. This requires a licensed electrician, and pricing will vary by location.
Venting
One major advantage of gas inserts is that they can use existing infrastructure, which may reduce construction and venting costs. However, the chimney or venting system must be inspected before installation. If damage is found, repairs or replacement will be needed before the new insert can be installed to utilize an existing chimney.
Venting costs can increase when:
- The fireplace is located far from an exterior wall
- There is no existing venting or a longer or more complex venting route is required
- New gas lines are needed
- The existing chimney requires repair before installation
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 modifications and will want to consider finishings for your gas insert surround. The selected material pricing at that time will have a direct impact on the cost of any wall modifications and finishing.
Gas Fireplace Inserts are a great solution for replacing an old wood-burning fireplace opening. Gas Inserts require little maintenance and are far more efficient than the old wood fireplace they are replacing. See Napoleon's full line of Gas Fireplace Inserts:
What Comes with a Fireplace Insert Purchase?
Not everything is included with the purchase of a gas fireplace insert. Many fireplace specialists do include some sort of installation package. This can include 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.
This can include:
- Fireplace installation
- Gas hookup
- Electrical 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 budget 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 depending on your location, as well as the complexity of the project.