Adding a Fireplace to Your Home

The image of spending time with family and friends gathered by an open fireplace is a selling point in many homes for sale, but not all properties come equipped with a built-in fireplace.

The dream of spending time with family and friends gathered by an open fireplace is a selling point in many homes for sale, but not all properties come equipped with a built-in fireplace. However, installing a fireplace unit is a popular renovation and buyers or current owners have several options when it comes to finding one that works for them.

The costs of installing a fireplace will vary from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the type of unit individuals want. Shopping around for different units, and comparing how they will accommodate the layout of a home, can be helpful when deciding which type to choose.

Wood-burning fireplace

Many homeowners may first turn to traditional wood-burning fireplaces when they begin searching for a unit. These fireplaces are common among older homes, and are often constructed in brick or stone, depending on a homeowner’s visual tastes. While the familiar wood-burning scent, cackle and image of these fireplaces and hearths provide a homey feel, these are the most expensive type of unit to build, costing as much as $10,000 or more. This is largely because individuals will need to hire a mason to complete the project and ensure that it is built to code, according to National Association of Realtors’ website HouseLogic.

These types of fireplaces also require more foundation to be laid down to carry the weight of the fireplace and chimney, as well as the cost of the chimney itself.

Gas-burning fireplace

A gas fireplace is another popular option, namely because it does not require individuals to purchase wood and is relatively less expensive than wood-burning units. While the costs of these types of units typically range in the thousands, installation is easier and less time-consuming. However, individuals who choose this option should also consider the costs of propane when making their decision, as gas costs can fluctuate frequently.

Electric fireplace

A fireplace unit that runs off electricity is the most affordable and simple option for individuals. These units may cost upwards of $400 and is portable. In addition, these units can be preferable for individuals who lack a great deal of space in their homes, but still want the warmth and aesthetic of a fireplace. In addition, the easy installation of this type of unit ensures that homeowners will not have to rearrange electronics located near the unit.

Check out our 40+ of favorite fireplaces from coldwellbanker.com on our Cozy Fireplaces Pinterest board.Here one to get you started:

Find more resources for homeowners here.

See more of the home featured in the cover photo.

Lindsay is the the Director of Media Engagement for Coldwell Banker Real Estate and manages the brand’s media and social media department. She is also a licensed real estate professional. In 2017 & 2018, she was named a top 20 social influencer in the real estate industry in the annual Swanepoel 200 power rankings.

Lindsay lives in Livingston, NJ with her college sweetheart and now husband Joe and rwelcomed another Joe into her life as she became a mom in June 2016.

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7 Comments

  1. Guest
    June 18, 2013

    thanks mann

    Reply
  2. David Thompson
    June 19, 2013

    There are three types of fireplaces and now I am going to discuss on it. Early 90 most people use wood fireplaces but now most have converted their fireplaces to gas or electric fireplaces.

    Wood-burning fireplace: Now this is not so popular only few people use it. Most of people converted it to gas or electric fireplaces. Only 5% USA people now use this.

    Gas-burning fireplace: It is run by natural gas and no need to carry wood so nowadays this is very popular. Just client on switch it will run.

    Electric fireplace: This is also popular and less value. Cost of it is near about $400.
    There are no disadvantages of it.

    I prefer gas and electric fireplaces then wood fireplaces.

    Reply
    • bob
      July 29, 2013

      David, are you mental?

      Reply
  3. Rose
    January 29, 2014

    There is nothing better than having a wood burning fireplace. The smell, the sound,look and heat can not be compared. I moved from a home with a woodburning fire place to an electric fireplace. It just isn’t the same…..

    Reply
  4. John Dean
    January 7, 2017

    I like this impressive idea. I love electric fireplace in my living room. This is awesome to have a electric fireplace in my home.

    Reply
  5. Max Jones
    August 21, 2017

    My wife and I are getting ready to finish our basement, and I think that being able to get a gas-burning one would be great for us! I’m glad that you talked about these fireplaces not needing wood, as well as being less expensive than the units that burn wood. I think that being able to invest in the ease of a gas-burning fireplace would be good for us, especially when it comes time for installation! Thank you!

    Reply

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