Costs of installing a (gas) fireplace
Installing a fireplace costs on average between €1,000 and €3,900, depending on the type of fireplace (gas, wood, or electric) and the required work on the flue. For example, placing an insert fireplace into an existing open fireplace usually varies from €1,200 to €2,500, while a completely new installation including flue work is more expensive. In this price guide, you can read about the costs of installing a fireplace, which factors influence the price, and what to look out for when making your choice.
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What does installing a fireplace cost?
Installing a fireplace costs on average between €1,000 and €3,900, depending on the type of fire and the necessary adjustments to the flue. Placing an insert fireplace into an existing open fireplace typically costs €1,200 to €2,500 including installation, while installing a completely new flue can go up to €3,900. The hourly rate for installation is €75 per hour.
Fireplace installation cost breakdown
Description | Average costs |
|---|---|
Purchase fireplace | €1,000 - €3,000 |
Flue inspection | €150 - €200 |
Flexible lining in existing flue | €1,500 - €2,000 |
Installation of new twin-wall flue | €2,600 - €3,900 |
Install roof fan | €650 - €900 |
Construct completely new flue | €2,000 (surcharge) |
Place catalyst in flue | €600 - €2,000 |
When placing an insert fireplace into an existing fireplace, the total price is usually between €1,200 and €2,500, as you can often build on the existing flue. A completely new installation with a new twin-wall flue costs more due to the additional work involved. The costs for installing a wood stove therefore mainly depend on the state and suitability of the existing flue.
All mentioned prices include 21% VAT and labour. At Zoofy, you never pay call-out charges and the costs for installing a fireplace are clear upfront.
Fireplace costs per type of work
The costs for installing a fireplace vary greatly per type of work. Placing an insert fireplace into an existing fireplace is more economical than constructing a completely new flue. Below you can see what the various tasks cost.
Work task | Price indication |
|---|---|
Purchase fireplace | €1,000 - €3,000 |
Flue inspection | €150 - €200 |
Applying flexible lining | €1,500 - €2,000 |
New twin-wall flue | €2,600 - €3,900 |
Roof fan | €650 - €900 |
Completely new flue (surcharge) | €2,000 |
Place catalyst | €600 - €2,000 |
Price-determining factors when installing a fireplace
The costs for placing an insert fireplace in an existing fireplace vary greatly per situation. What makes one job simple can cause extra work in another. Below you can read which factors influence the total price.
Type of fireplace
Gas fireplaces work with a closed system and are easy to operate, making installation time shorter. Open fireplaces require more attention to ventilation and smoke extraction, which increases costs. Insert fireplaces combine the best of both worlds with a lift door but require an adapted flue. Electric fireplaces are the easiest to install because they do not require a flue, saving on labour and materials.
Condition of the existing flue
With a flue in good condition, costs are lower. If the flue is outdated or damaged, a flexible lining must be applied for safe smoke extraction. In case of severe damage, a completely new twin-wall flue is necessary, requiring more materials and labour.
Diameter and length of the flue
A diameter that is too narrow reduces the draught, preventing smoke from being discharged properly. Widening takes time and requires structural adjustments. If the length is insufficient, the flue must be extended. For extra draught, a fan can be placed on the roof, which involves extra material and installation work.
Relocating the flue
If you want the fireplace in a different spot in the room, the flue must be moved. This means new piping, extra penetrations through walls or ceilings, and connection to the existing system. The further the new location is from the old flue, the more work and material is required.
Installing a completely new flue
Without an existing flue, holes must be made in the roof, ceiling, and any upper floors. This requires precision work and extra material for the flue itself. The costs rise significantly as a result.
Brand and dimensions of the fireplace
More expensive brands often have better materials and longer warranties, but this increases the purchase price. Larger fireplaces require more material and are heavier, requiring more installation time and sometimes extra manpower.
Design options and finish
Curved glass, soapstone finish, corner fireplaces, and see-through fireplaces are more complex in construction and therefore more expensive. The finish after installation, such as a fire-resistant surround, plastering, and painting, requires craftsmanship and time. The more extensive the finish, the higher the installation costs.
Catalyst for environmentally friendly burning
A catalyst in the flue reduces harmful emissions during wood burning. Installing one requires extra material and installation work, increasing the price.
Urgency versus scheduled work
A rush job forces the professional to adjust their schedule, resulting in a higher rate. Scheduled work costs less as the professional can plan their routes more efficiently.
Weekend or weekdays
Work during the weekend costs more than on weekdays due to higher rates outside regular working hours.
Complexity of the job
Complex situations such as structural adjustments, working at height, or penetrating multiple floors require more time and expertise. Costs increase as the job becomes technically more complicated.
Region
In large cities, prices are often higher due to higher overhead and parking costs. In rural areas, costs are generally lower.
Timely maintenance
Addressing small problems with the flue immediately prevents large repairs later. Fully replacing a broken flue costs more than timely installation of a lining.
Extra costs and surcharges
Extra costs are situation-dependent. At Zoofy, you do not pay call-out charges.
Urgency surcharge: For urgent jobs, a surcharge often applies because the professional must adjust their schedule.
Weekend surcharge: Work during the weekend is more expensive than during the week.
Installation of a completely new flue: €2,000 extra when holes must be made in the roof, ceiling, and floors.
Flue inspection: €150 to €200 for checking the condition of an existing flue.
Roof fan: €650 to €900 for better draught.
Catalyst: €600 to €2,000 for more environmentally friendly burning.
Permits and inspections: A building permit may be required for a new flue or changes to the exterior facade. Gas fireplaces require a certified installer.
How does the professional work when installing a fireplace?
The installation of a fireplace proceeds in clear steps, from inspection to commissioning.
Intake and inspection: The professional assesses the location, checks the existing flue, and looks at ventilation options. For gas fireplaces, the gas connection is also checked.
Structural adjustments: If necessary, adjustments are made such as enlarging the flue, applying a flexible lining, or installing a completely new twin-wall flue with holes in the roof and floors.
Realising gas connection or flue: For gas fireplaces, the gas pipe is connected by a certified installer. For wood fireplaces, the flue is installed or adapted.
Placing the fireplace: The fireplace is placed in the designated spot and connected to the flue or gas pipe. With an existing flue, this is often simpler as the existing channel is usable.
Finishing and insulation: The professional places a fire-resistant surround and touches up plasterwork and painting using special fire-resistant boards.
Inspection and commissioning: The installation is checked for safety. Gas fireplaces undergo an inspection. The job takes on average 1 to 3 days, depending on the required flue work.
How can you save on installing a fireplace?
There are several ways to save on the installation of your fireplace.
Use existing infrastructure: Reuse an existing flue in good condition. This saves significantly in costs compared to installing a completely new flue.
Choose a freestanding stove: Freestanding models are often more affordable and easier to install than built-in fireplaces because fewer structural adjustments are needed.
Plan outside the heating season: Book the installation in the spring or summer. Avoiding weekend or urgent bookings saves on surcharges.
Good preparation: Ensure the workspace is clear and accessible. Remove furniture and fragile objects so the professional can start immediately, saving time and money.
Consider an electric fireplace: No flue required means significant cost savings and easier installation. Ideal for homes without a chimney.
Book via Zoofy: You get a fixed rate upfront, with no call-out charges and no surprises. You only pay after the job is completed.
Common problems with fireplace installation
When installing a fireplace, various problems can occur that affect operation and safety.
Poor draught due to incorrect dimensioning
A flue that is too small or too short provides insufficient draught, causing smoke to enter the home instead of being discharged. This problem often occurs when the existing flue proves unsuitable for the new fireplace.
Condensation in the flue
Incorrect materials or poor insulation lead to condensation in the flue. The moisture affects the flue, causing cracks and leaks that jeopardise safety.
Insufficient ventilation
Wood fireplaces need enough fresh air for combustion. A lack of ventilation reduces combustion quality and can lead to carbon monoxide build-up in the home.
Find the best professional for installing a fireplace
Professional installation is essential for safety and a well-functioning fireplace.
Professional installation: Installing it yourself is risky due to gas connections and flue work. A certified professional guarantees a safe installation.
Certification mandatory: For gas fireplaces, a certified installer is legally required. Ask about experience with your specific type of fireplace.
No call-out charges: At Zoofy, you never pay call-out charges.
Fixed price upfront: You know exactly what you pay before the professional starts, with no surprises afterwards.
Fast booking without quotation hassle: Book a professional directly and choose a time, without requesting quotes first.
Payment after completion: You only pay via QR code when the job is completely finished and you are satisfied.
Reliable professionals: All affiliated professionals are vetted and score an average of 9.2. Quality comes first at Zoofy.
Frequently asked questions about installing a fireplace
What does a fireplace cost including installation?
Installing a fireplace costs between €1,000 and €3,900, depending on the type of fireplace and the condition of the flue. For an insert fireplace in an existing fireplace, you often pay €1,200 to €2,500 including installation.
How long does it take to install a fireplace?
On average, installation takes 1 to 3 days. This depends on the complexity and whether flue work is required.
Can I install a fireplace in an apartment?
That depends on the presence of a flue and permission from the Owners' Association (VvE). An electric or bio-ethanol fireplace is often a good alternative without a flue.
What does a wood stove cost including installation?
The costs for installing a wood stove are between €1,000 and €3,900, including materials and labour. With an existing flue in good condition, costs remain lower.
Does my chimney always need to be swept?
Yes, for wood-burning fireplaces, annual chimney sweeping is often a legal or insurance requirement to prevent chimney fires. Gas fireplaces require less maintenance.
Can I install a fireplace without a chimney?
Yes, electric fireplaces and bio-ethanol fireplaces do not need a flue. This saves significantly on installation costs.
Is a fireplace suitable as primary heating?
A fireplace is usually used for atmosphere or as a supplementary heat source. For primary heating, an efficient heating system is recommended.
Do I need a permit for a fireplace?
A building permit may be required for a new flue or adjustments to the exterior facade. Gas fireplaces require installation by a certified professional.
Book a professional for installing a fireplace
Ready to have a fireplace installed? At Zoofy, you book a professional directly, without quotes and without call-out charges. You see exactly what it costs in advance, and Zoofy connects you with a vetted, reliable professional. You only pay once the work is done.