Cost To Build Outdoor Fireplace
An outdoor fireplace costs $140 to $3,500 or more before installation. Masonry and chimney construction typically adds $1,000 to $2,000 to your cost. Indoor and outdoor models are built the same way, but outdoor models are more flexible on fireplace codes. Additional charges may come with masonry work used to build a surround structure of the firebox, such as a hearth. An outdoor fireplace is an excellent alternative to a firepit.
Outdoor Fireplace Cost
Cal Flame 48″ Propane Gas Outdoor Fireplace in Porcelain Tile | $3,411 |
Indoor-Outdoor Fireplace Cost
An indoor-outdoor fireplace cost depends on your budget, because they can come in any size and at any price starting at about $1,900. A trim kit costs $300 to $920. If its not included in the price, youll also need to buy a kit which allows for installation on the exterior wall and includes a double glass window and a barrier screen. Wiring, connection, and installation of a heater in a closed wall costs $141 to $202.
These fireplaces can be installed on exterior walls so they can be seen from both inside and outside. The cost is the same as installing an indoor fireplace, but you may be quoted a higher estimate than usual for the hole that has to be cut to create an opening to the outside. The way your home is constructed will largely determine additional installation costs.
Indoor-Outdoor Fireplace Cost
Napoleon Vector 74 See-Through Gas Fireplace | $11,549 |
Whats A Zero Clearance Fireplace
A zero clearance fireplace is a great option for homeowners that want to add fireplaces to their homes but have older homes that dont have the right masonry work like a chimney to support a fireplace.
Zero clearance fireplaces allow homeowners to add fireplaces even if they dont have the proper chimney to support a fireplace because zero clearance fireplaces use a system of vents in order to circulate air so they dont need chimneys to work and be safe.
If you have always wanted a fireplace but thought you could never have one because your home wasnt built with a chimney, now you can have the fireplace that youve always wanted. In fact, you can have more than one if you want them. Add a fireplace to your master bedroom and to your living room.
Zero clearance fireplaces are ideal for spaces like garages, sheds, basements, attics, or other spaces within the home or around the home that you want to turn into livable and usable space.
They are extremely energy efficient and can provide great heat with the minimal cost which makes them perfect to use for heating a man cave, she shed, or basement media room or hang out room for the kids.
Easy To Retrofit Into Homes
Finally, homeowners who have older homes that were never built with fireplaces can safely and affordably install fireplaces in their homes so that they can experience the relaxation and warmth of having a burning fire in a bedroom, dining room, living room, or other space.
You can even install one in the bathroom if you really want to create a luxurious getaway for yourself. Call today to talk with a designer about options and availability of zero clearance fireplaces and see how affordable it can be to have the fireplace youve been dreaming about installed in your home.
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How To Choose The Right Zero Clearance Wood Burning Fireplace For Your Needs
- The most important feature of your fireplace is the opening. If you have a large burning fire, then choose a smaller fireplace that has a larger opening. On the other hand, if you need to burn wood that does not reach high temperatures , its better to buy a product with an already small size and reduced openings.
- The style of your home is also something to take into account when choosing a Zero Clearance Wood Burning Fireplace. If you have a traditional styled house, then its best to buy a traditional fireplace. But if you want to be more modern, there are many models that look very sleek and stylish.
- Finally, the last thing you need to think about is the price. Zero Clearance Wood Burning Fireplaces can vary in price, so its important that you find one that fits your budget.
There are many things to consider when choosing a Zero Clearance Wood Burning Fireplace. By following these guidelines, youll be sure to find the perfect product for your needs.
Zero Clearance Wood Burning Fireplaces vary in size, style and even price. Follow these guidelines to choose the perfect Zero Clearance Wood Burning Fireplace for you!
Zero Clearance Wood Burning Fireplaces

A wood burning fireplace is for those that want the real fire and possibly want to supplement their heating bills. Todays zero clearance fireplaces are designed to be used when building a fireplace from scratch in a new home or adding one to an existing home. They dont require massive structural foundations like the earlier masonry built fireplace. You dont need an existing chimney. Installation is similar to a wood stove with an insulated stainless steel chimney. The only difference is that you can enclose it with a wood frame around, as a finishing option.
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Fireplace And Chimney Maintenance
In conclusion, a zero clearance fireplace adds value to any home. However, youll still have to maintain a clean chimney and fireplace no matter what. This includes a proper chimney sweep and inspection to ensure that the flue of your chimney is cleaned out from any debris and creosote.
At Vertical Chimney Care, we understand what customers want and weve delivered that for over 30 years. We are the most trusted chimney service company in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs since 1985. Contact us today to speak to a specialist!
How Much Does It Cost To Install A Zero Clearance Fireplace
Zero clearance fireplace installation is substantially lower when compared to traditional systems.
Installing traditional site-built masonry can often cost upwards of $5000 when factoring in labor and materials. Generally, with most ZC fireplaces, your options will cost significantly less because theyre already manufactured to code and are simple to assemble however, the variety of models and household specifics prevent us from providing a definitive price range. What we can say is, you wont have to worry about large-scaled reconstruction and massive labor costs if you choose to go with ZC.
How do I know if my fireplace is zero clearance?
In many understandable cases, homeowners have a hard time determining if their system is ZC. We are here to help! Follow these steps to clear up any misunderstandings.
- The majority of prefabs have some sort of faux brick panels inside the fireplace. If you cant tell if the bricks are fake or not, ensure the unit is cool, then stick your hand inside to feel the material. The refractory panels are made of heat-resistant casting materials that wont feel like authentic brickwork.
- The easiest way to tell if its prefabricated is if there is exposed black metal on the outside of the unit.
- Another easy way to identify it is by stepping outside and looking at the chimney. If siding or stucco covers your chimney, its typically factory-built.
- Lastly, if you find a metal manufacturers label around the units opening, its 100% prefabricated.
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Electric Fireplace Installation Cost
An electric fireplace costs $100 to $2,200 or more, and the installation labor ranges from $0 to $365. Labor costs will only come up if you need to install a new outlet, for about $150, or if it needs to sit in or be attached to a wall.
A handyman charges $50 to $65 per hour with a minimum service fee of $50$125. Otherwise, you can just plug it in. If you wish to place an electric firebox into a masonry fireplace, youll close off the chimney and the damper and add a frame and trim around the new firebox.
Electric Fireplace Prices Without Labor
Model | |
---|---|
NAPOLEON Allure 100″ Wall-Mount Electric Fireplace | $2,199 |
Electric fireplaces are safe and more practical than traditional open-hearth fireplaces. Electric fireplaces run on 1,500 watts of electricity, which costs $0.15 per hour on average. They require no clearance between combustible materials and themselves, because they maintain a cool exterior.
Also, electric fireplaces don’t require a chimney or hearth and can add a high aesthetic value to a room. They are better at heating rooms, as their heat does not escape up a chimney.
Types Of Zero Clearance Fireplaces
Zero clearance fireplaces are affordable and contemporary fireplace options. As opposed to traditional masonry fireplaces, they are much faster and cheaper to install. They also dont require a hearth or chimney.
While all ZC fireplaces share most things in common, there are a few different styles to choose from. The main difference is the fuel source used. Read on to find out what types are available, and which one is best suited for your home.
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What Is The Minimum Clearance Needed For A Zero
In order to ensure that your smoke will be able to escape from its chimney and avoid building up in your home, it is important to follow safety recommendations when installing any type of wood burning fireplace. The National Fire Protection Association recommends maintaining a 36-inch clearance between your fireplace and any combustible materials like walls, furniture or drapes. It is also important to have a minimum of 18 inches of space above the top of your fireplace in order to allow for proper ventilation.
Advantages Of An Epa Certified Fireplace
Space
Unlike traditional wood stoves, EPA-certified fireplaces save floor space by being built into the wall. They are made with a plate steel high-efficiency burn chamber and wrapped in an insulated sheet metal cabinet. The insulated wrapping allows it to be installed safely into a wall. Once installed, some of these wood stove inserts can heat up to 3,000 square feet. So, they are the perfect combination of space-saving and space heating.
Fuel Useage / Pollution
The ingenuity of a wood stove insert is pretty amazing. They use an air injection system that consists of a set of baffles and air tubes in the ceiling of the burn chamber. Combustion air is drawn through a dedicated tube and methodically fed into the fire. This creates a system that feeds the fire in a very controlled fashion. Because the burn slows down through this process, it creates a longer-lasting fire and uses a fraction of the firewood that open-faced wood fireplaces use.
- smoking chimney
What’s even more amazing is these units also release little to no smoke through the chimney system. Outside of the initial startup, high-efficiency fireplaces release no smoke into the atmosphere. So, for those of you who are conscious of environmental conservation, this is a great option to heat your home and be confident you aren’t contributing to pollution.
Heating Ability
Venting
- DuraPlus Stainless Steel Chimney Pipe
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Costs To Add Fireplace To A Home
The total cost to add a fireplace ranges from $100 to $5,600 depending on which fuel source you select. Of that total cost, the cost to install a fireplace and to buy the firebox the fire burns inside are two different price points to consider.
Costs To Add Fireplace To A Home
Factors | |
---|---|
Ventilation | $400 $2,000 |
Do you want a large mantel, simple mantel shelf, ornate frieze, or inlay brickwork? Is the area irregular or difficult to add fittings and moldings to? There is also the cost of materials used to assemble the mantel or surrounding molding, like plaster.
- Plaster and frieze will cost $13 per linear foot.
- Mantel shelf with custom fitting and installation, $107 per mantel.
- Installing a pine mantel ranges between $1,105 and $3,017 for a more ornate, stained piece.
Best Zero Clearance Wood Burning Fireplace Reviews 2022

Looking for the best zero clearance wood burning fireplace? It can be a great way to not only warm your home but also give it a cozy and comfortable feeling as well. For most homeowners, however, the idea of having a fireplace is usually something that is not taken lightly.
If your home already has a built-in fireplace, you dont have to worry, but if you want to install one, then you will have to consider many things, including installation costs and what kind of fireplace to buy
One such option that is ideal for homes that dont currently have a fireplace is a zero clearance insert. These units are designed to work in tight spaces, and can be readily installed in almost any setting. Today Ill be talking to you about the benefits of a zero clearance fireplace, as well as show you some options, so you know what to look for.
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What Is A Zero Clearance Fireplace
Zero clearance systems are prefabricated yes, you read that correctly. Well clear up any confusion in the next section. These appliances are highly efficient heat sources, designed for safe installation within inches of paneling, walls, sheetrock, and other combustible materials . Thats the genesis of the term zero clearance.
Unlike traditional masonry, these units are designed to lower the exterior temperatures, allowing them to be installed closer to combustibles in the home. Meaning a large buffer zone or clearance between the fireplace and combustibles isnt necessary. The clearance, however, will be measured to within a few inches, not literally zero.
With the design being built in a factory and easy to install, these systems are often incorrectly referred to as zero clearance fireplace inserts. But the difference between a zero clearance fireplace and an insert is the size and installation. Inserts are designed small enough to slide into an existing open space. But zero clearance fireplaces are explicitly framed into a wall and cannot be inserted because of their large firebox size.
Cost To Install Gas Fireplace
The cost to install a gas fireplace ranges from $2,280 to $4,030. The labor cost alone for a vented gas fireplace installation ranges from $2,500 to $2,800 while labor for a vent-free fireplace will cost about $1,200 less.
The installation cost can cost a lot more if you have no existing gas line to the house, but a local gas company might be willing to cover that cost to get your business.
The overall maintenance of a gas fireplace is relatively low. There is no soot or ash to scrape out, therefore requiring no cleaning. It burns the most efficiently out of all the choices, heating a room with less energy, and it only costs about $60 a year to run a gas fireplace.
Also, gas is a much better choice of fireplace if you live in an earthquake-prone location. Some sample prices for a direct-vent or vent-free gas fireplace without labor costs are:
Gas Fireplace Installation Cost
$1,322 |
Cost to Install a Propane Fireplace
The average cost to install a ventless propane fireplace is $1,200, and the cost to convert a gas furnace to a propane furnace is about $25 to $100. The difference in price between a gas-fueled and propane-fueled fireplace is in the fuel cost. Less propane is needed to provide the same amount of heat as gas. Both are considered to burn clean, but natural gas burns cleaner.
Gas Fireplace Cost Per Hour
- Natural gas burns at $0.70 an hour
- Propane burns at $2.30 an hour
Gas Log Installation Cost
Gas Log Insert Prices
NAPOLEON 30″ Vent-Free Natural Gas Log Set | $1,129 |
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Me300 Zero Clearance Wood Fireplace W/ Arched Doors
Enjoy both the sound and the heat of a natural fireplace with our Ventis ME300. Thanks to it’s two standard firescreen doors, the fireplace can be operated with glass doors wide open. It’s extra large 4.25 cubic foot firebox is clearly a guarantee for the best looking fire. Although the ME300 is not designed to provide an overnight burn, it is powerful enough to heat up to 1,500 square feet for hours. Get the most out of this truly exceptional fireplace by using it’s standard blower or installing it’s optional warm air distribution kit. The features of our ME300 were created without compromise for the environment. Indeed, it’s emissions have been tested at 2.9 g/kg and are below the Phase II limit of the EPA voluntary wood fireplace program. A clean, wood-burning decorative fireplace with arched doors and a rustic style, metallic black faceplate.
Make your living room cozy and inviting for those cold winter nights.
- 4.25 cu. ft. heats up to 1,500 sq. ft.
- 65,000 BTUs maximum output with seasoned cord wood
- Emissions tested at 2.9 g/kg and are below the Phase II limit of the EPA Voluntary Wood Fireplace Program
- Two standard firescreen doors
- Optional warm air distrubtion kit available
Benefits Of Zero Clearance Prefabs
Now that you know the general information about these units, lets talk about a number of the main benefits of installing one in your home:
- Versatility: As illustrated in the types section above, ZC prefab fireplaces are incredibly versatile and customizable. Due to the minimal clearance of combustibles and various venting options, these systems are eligible for nearly any household installation. From mansions to mobile homes, you can experience the warmth and coziness of a beautiful indoor fire.
- Improved Efficiency: Many people dont realize that open-hearth masonry fires arent efficient ways to heat your home. Their heating efficiency can be as low as 8-10%, while ZC can be as high as 70-80%.
- Easy Operation: In the cases of gas and electric models, you can achieve a beautiful fire within seconds. Controllable switches and remote controls operate the vibrant flames. Of course, wood-burning isnt quite so simple. For tips on building the perfect, long-lasting wood-burning fire, check out this blog post!
- Many Styles: Whether youre looking for a rustic, traditional, or modern zero clearance fireplace, we guarantee each will flawlessly add financial and aesthetic value to your home. But while there are many available styles, that doesnt mean every option is the right one for your specific home.
You should always schedule an inspection with a certified professional chimney technician before making any decisions!
Site-built see-through fireplace with black surround.
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