Where to Begin with Your Fireplace Planning
It can seem like a daunting task to install a fireplace. With so many different options on the market, it can be difficult to decide which option is the correct one for your home or business. Weâve put together this helpful guide to highlight some of the major considerations youâll need to make before purchasing.
What to Consider Before Starting Your Fireplace Build
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for installing a fireplace. The type of fireplace you select, the location in your home and cost considerations will all factor into deciding which model offers the correct fit for your installation. Before you begin your project, be sure to understand all technical specifications of your fireplace as well as any applicable local codes. With that said, the 3 main considerations for fireplaces come down to:
Fireplace Fuel Types
There are three primary fuel types to choose from when beginning a fireplace project. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Electric Fireplaces
Electric fireplaces are a newer market than either wood-burning or gas fireplaces. Of the three primary options, electric fireplaces offer the most plug-and-play experience. In the case of wall-mount units, installation is almost as easy as hanging a TV.
Though built-in electric fireplaces and fireplace inserts will require proper framing and clearances, no special venting is required in most cases. This installation flexibility makes electric fireplaces a popular option for those looking to add a fireplace to their home with the least amount of hassle. Though some of the heating capabilities and realism are sacrificed when compared to wood-burning and gas fireplaces, these problems can be mitigated by selecting a higher-end unit with an integrated heater and realistic flame presentation.
- Easiest fireplace option to install; many units offer a plug-and-play design
- No special venting required, allowing for more flexible installation options
- Lower heat output and less realistic flame appearance versus wood or gas
Wood-Burning Fireplaces
Wood-burning fireplaces and stoves have existed for millennia for good reason. In addition to an unmatched flame presentation, these units offer exceptional heat output. These heating capabilities make wood-burning appliances an excellent option for homes in areas experiencing colder temperatures during the year.
Wood-burning fireplaces require special venting to ensure safety and performance. These units must be vented vertically. Wood fireplaces and stoves have specific venting requirements depending on the manufacturer of the fireplace as well as the model of the wood-burning unit. Venting components are NOT universal. Even if an existing chimney or venting componentry are in place, a new wood burning fireplace may require different chimney pipe components. Read our guide to chimney and venting pipe for more info.
Always refer to a product manual before purchasing venting components in order to ensure compatibility.
- Exceptional heat output makes these appliances a viable heating option
- Unmatched flame appearance; real logs burn like real logs
- Require more maintenance due to ash and soot; Special venting is required
Gas Fireplaces
Gas appliances offer another alternative to wood-burning and electric fireplaces. These units still offer an impressive flame appearance without the mess associated with wood. In addition, these fireplaces can still produce a substantial amount of heat, which makes them another viable option for heating. Gas fireplaces can be further categorized as either vented or vent-free/ventless units.
- Efficient heat output and realistic flame performance
- Available in both vented and vent-free styles for more installation options
- Vented units must use the proper venting components specified by the product manual
Fireplace Venting Types
Vented Fireplaces
Vented fireplaces offer a much more realistic appearance than their vent-free counterparts. These fireplaces also operate without the downsides of vent-free systems like moisture, odor and oxygen depletion.
In the past, Natural Vented or B-Vent fireplaces were popular. Today, however, most fireplaces are known as direct-vent systems. These systems can be vented outdoors horizontally through an exterior wall or vertically through a roof depending on the specific installation. These fireplaces work by pulling exterior air into the firebox, using it to aid combustion and then venting the exhaust back into the exterior. These units are completely sealed in order to achieve this and are therefore extremely energy efficient.
Just like wood-burning fireplaces, vented gas fireplace venting components are NOT universal. In order to determine the venting requirements of your fireplace, refer to your ownerâs manual before installing. Read our guide to chimney and venting pipe for more info.
Vent-Free Fireplaces
As their name states, vent-free fireplaces do not require special venting due to the relatively clean-burning nature of their design. While this may seem like an attractive option for those looking to add a gas fireplace to their home without extensive remodeling, there are several important facts to consider when choosing a vent-free fireplace.
One downside of a vent-free fireplace is that it can produce a gas odor when the burner is in use. Also, vent-free gas fireplaces naturally deplete oxygen in a room, which is why these units include oxygen sensors so as to not reduce the oxygen level below a dangerous threshold. However, by reducing ambient oxygen, vent-free fireplaces can make the room feel dry. Itâs also worth noting, vent-free gas appliances are not permissible in all areas, so be sure to check your local codes and regulations.
Fireplace Installation Types
Electric, gas and wood-burning appliances are all available in different build styles to suit specific installation scenarios. While each unit offers its own pros and cons, there is no best option; each installation will dictate the needs of the space.
Freestanding Fireplaces and Stoves
One of the biggest benefits of a freestanding fireplace or stove is the flexibility of its installation options. Due to the way these units are vented, they can be placed in nearly any area so long as proper ventilation is run. Unlike inserts and built-in units requiring adequate wall space for framing, these units can sit just about anywhere if clearances from combustible materials are met.
Fireplace Inserts
Fireplace inserts differ from built-in fireplaces in that they must be installed in an existing operational fireplace. These fireplaces require a chimney system inserted within an existing chimney.
For more specific requirements, refer to applicable fireplace insert product manuals.
Built-In Fireplaces
Built-in fireplaces offer a complete manufactured unit that can be installed in a framed enclosure, mantel unit or wall space. For venting purposes, a built-in fireplace requires a dedicated chimney or vent system within several inches of combustible materials to ensure safe operation. This venting can be run through an exterior wall or into an existing chimney with proper compatible components.
Electric fireplaces can also be built into a wall or mantel. The primary difference between electrics and other built-in fireplaces is the lack of venting requirements for electric fireplace units. All venting for an electric fireplace will be within the unit itself, and no special venting components will need to be purchased.
Wall-Mount Fireplaces
These fireplaces can be hung on a wall like a television, making them an excellent option for a low hassle installation. Many wall-mount fireplaces can also be built into the wall fully or partially recessed for a lower profile appearance, but this will vary by model. See an ownerâs manual for more specific fireplace mounting information. Wall-mount fireplaces are available in both electric and gas configurations.
Additional Considerations When Building a Fireplace
In addition to the previously mentioned considerations, certain installations may have other factors involved when adding a fireplace. Although these details may not be as important to the actual build, youâll want to address each to ensure your finished fireplace is one youâll continue to enjoy for years to come.
How Much Does it Cost to Install a Fireplace?
Fireplace installation costs can vary greatly depending on the type of installation selected. According to REALTORS ®, the price to install a fireplace starts in the several hundred dollar range and can go well into the thousands for more extensive builds. The following numbers are for informational and research purposes, and your costs may vary greatly depending on the circumstances of your individual installation, your location and the materials used.
Electric Fireplace Costs
In addition to being the easiest fireplaces to install, electric fireplaces are also the most affordable option. Fireplaces Direct offers fireplace units starting at less than $300. Premium units can retail for upwards of $12,000.
In addition to the cost of the unit itself, installation costs will vary depending on how much framing work may need to be done, if any. These basic installation costs will add to the overall build cost, but not significantly.
Gas-Burning Fireplace Costs
Gas fireplace units range in price from $500 for basic built-in units up to approximately $4,000 for premium units and freestanding gas stoves. Complete gas log sets with burners range in price from approximately $150 for smaller sets to around $2,000 for larger and more ornate sets. Check our gas log buying guide for more details.
When installing a gas-burning fireplace, installation materials and labor for a professional installation will add several thousand dollars to the build cost. These numbers will vary greatly depending on factors like materials used, whether professional installers are used, and whether existing gas lines are in place.
Wood-Burning Fireplace Costs
Wood-burning fireplaces are the most expensive installation option of the three primary options. Fireplaces and inserts will vary in price from approximately $2,000 to upwards of $10,000 for the actual fireplace unit. Freestanding wood stoves at Fireplaces Direct will cost between $900 and $3,200.
Installation costs play a significant factor in the ultimate price of a wood-burning fireplace installation. These fireplaces must be professionally installed, and installation costs can range from several thousand dollars to more than $10,000 depending on factors like materials used, fireplace size and overall design. Venting is a significant expense and can frequently cost as much or more than the cost of the actual fireplace or stove unit.
How Big Should My Fireplace Be?
Be sure to take fireplace size into account when designing a fireplace installation for your room. Not only will a unit too large or too small detract from the appearance of the room, but it may also perform poorly. A fireplace too large for a room may put off too much heat to be comfortable, while a fireplace too small could leave a room cold and drafty.
When beginning your project, be sure to research heating recommendations for your space. You may also want to mock-up a fireplace design within your room to determine general size requirements in addition to the exact measurements youâll need for your build.
How Should I Design My Fireplace?
Fireplaces come in all shapes and styles and two installations will rarely come out the same. In addition to your personal tastes, consider the décor of your room. While a fireplace can theoretically add to the value of a home, this wonât be the case if your installation ends up being an eyesore.
Whether your design tastes skew modern or traditional, there are fireplace units to meet your needs regardless of fuel type. Be sure to check out our full selection of products to find the right model for your home.
Will My Fireplace Work with a Remote Control?
Are you looking to make your fireplace as convenient as possible? Consider a fireplace model with remote control options. When researching fireplaces, consult the product manual of the unit you wish to purchase to ensure remote functionality.
Do I Need a Fireplace Blower and Fan?
A fireplace fan and blower can greatly increase the efficiency and effectiveness of your fireplace unit. These convenient add-ons improve air circulation from a fireplace heater. The resulting output can further decrease your energy bills.
Different fan and blower kit options are available, and not all fireplaces can accept a fireplace blower. Consult a fireplace product manual to review compatibility.
What Kind of Warranty Does My Fireplace Have?
Warranty information will vary depending on fireplace type and manufacturer. You will want to understand the limitations of your product warranty when purchasing a fireplace, as different components will likely be covered for different reasons and different lengths of time.
As an example, Napoleon wood appliances are warranted against defects for as long as you own the appliance. This includes the combustion chamber, heat exchanger, ceramic glass for thermal breakage and other components. Electrical parts on these same appliances such as blowers, switches and wiring are replaced free of charge only during the first year of the limited warranty.
You can find more specific warranty information for each product in its respective ownerâs manual. You can also contact us for more information.
Get Help with Your Fireplace Project
We hope youâve found our fireplace building guide helpful. Check out our full selection of fireplace products to start planning your installation today.
Our experts are also available to assist you as necessary. Give us a call at 888-977-6849 to speak with a member of our team. Our customer service team is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time to assist you during the building process. You can also contact us via our website.
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