How much does it cost to remodel a fireplace?
How much does it cost to remodel a fireplace?
$600 – $4,500 average fireplace refacing cost
$2,400 – $8,100 average cost to replace / rebuild
Average fireplace remodel cost
The average fireplace remodel costs $600 to $4,500 for refacing or $2,400 to $8,100 for a full replacement. Refacing a fireplace means replacing the material that surrounds the firebox. Replacing the mantel alone costs $500 to $5,000, depending on the size, material, and whether it's prefabricated or custom made.
| Remodel type | Average total cost |
|---|---|
| Reface | $600 – $4,500 |
| Paint | $350 – $650 |
| Complete replace / rebuild | $2,400 – $8,100 |
| Replace mantel only | $500 – $5,000 |
Cost to reface a fireplace by material
The cost to reface a fireplace depends on its size and material. Tile, stone, and brick are the most common fireplace surround materials.
| Material type | Average cost per SF installed | Average total cost (5 – 25 SF)* |
|---|---|---|
| Brick | $25 – $50 | $630 – $2,300 |
| Concrete | $5 – $25 | $530 – $1,600 |
| Metal | $15 – $50 | $580 – $2,300 |
| Stone | $50 – $150 | $750 – $4,800 |
| Stone veneer | $45 – $75 | $730 – $2,900 |
| Tile | $10 – $50 | $550 – $2,300 |
*Including material removal fee
If your fireplace is in good condition, consider making small changes rather than replacing the whole thing. Updating the mantel, safety screen, or hearth can make a big difference.
Fireplace renovation costs
Fireplace renovation costs depend on the material and extent of the project. Painting and making small repairs costs less than refacing or a full replacement. The following additional factors affect the final cost:
Demo & disposal – Removing the fireplace before a replacement costs $500 to $2,500. Removing the surround material costs $500 to $1,000.
Contractor rates – General contractors charge $50 to $150 per hour or $10% to 20% of the total project cost. Some professional fireplace installers charge $40 to $150 per hour.
Repairs – Fireplace repairs cost $100 to $2,000, depending on the level of damage and the fireplace type.
Cleaning / inspection – Chimney sweeps charge $150 to $375 on average for a cleaning and inspection. An inspection alone costs $55 to $130.
Mantel material – A mantel made of pine or metal costs less than marble or hardwood.
Hearth – Larger fireplaces typically have a hearth extension for safety purposes. Hearth extensions are usually made of the same material as the surround.
Safety screen – Fireplace screens cost $50 to $250 and are typically made of metal or glass.
Upgrades – Adding upgrades around the fireplace costs extra:
Recessed lighting costs $125 to $300 per can light for the lights and installation.
A programmable thermostat costs $100 to $340 installed.
Built-in shelving costs $300 to $850 per linear foot for labor and materials.
DIY paint / refacing kits – Painting the fireplace yourself costs $75 to $150 for paint, primer, and supplies. Premade resurfacing kits cost $200 to $1,000.
Cost to redo a fireplace
The cost to redo a fireplace depends on the project type. Converting a wood fireplace to gas logs costs less than a gas insert or a complete rebuild.
| Project | Average total cost |
|---|---|
| Convert wood fireplace to gas | $1,500 – $8,000 |
| Extending a gas line | $250 – $500 |
| Convert gas fireplace to wood | $100 – $300 |
| Rebuild the chimney | $1,000 – $15,000 |
Cost to paint a fireplace
Professional fireplace painting costs $350 to $650 on average. Brick staining costs $1 to $4 per square foot and offers solid or semi-transparent color options, including white limewashing. Paint comes in more colors than stain but lacks longevity as it sits on the brick surface instead of permeating it.
If you decide to paint your fireplace on your own, make sure to buy high-heat paint.
Cost to replace vs. remove a fireplace
Replacing a fireplace costs $2,400 to $8,100, depending on the size, fuel source, placement, and material. Prefab fireplace inserts are the cheapest to replace, while stone, masonry, and brick cost the most.
In comparison, the cost to build a fireplace where there was none before is $1,900 to $5,600, which includes the flue, vent, or chimney.
Fireplace removal costs $500 to $2,500 on its own for partial removal or $3,000 to $6,000 to disconnect, fully demolish, install structural support, and repair the walls, floor, and roof.
Fireplace remodeling FAQs
Does a fireplace increase home value?
Having a fireplace can increase a home's value by $1,000 to $5,000, especially if it matches the style of the rest of the home. When looking at houses, 60% to 65% of home buyers look for a fireplace. Gas fireplaces tend to add more value than wood-burning fireplaces.
What materials can I use to reface my fireplace?
You can use brick, tile, stone, stone veneer, concrete, or metal to reface your fireplace. In most cases, you can put the new material over the old brick or tile. Stone, tile, and brick are the most common materials used for a fireplace surround.
How long does it take to remodel a fireplace?
Remodeling a fireplace takes 1 day to 4 weeks, depending on the scope of the project and whether any of the components are custom-made. Painting or replacing a mantel takes less time than refacing or rebuilding a fireplace.
Who remodels fireplaces?
Handymen, professional fireplace installers, and general contractors remodel fireplaces. Their rates and skill levels vary, so make sure to hire someone experienced.
Getting estimates from fireplace remodel contractors
When hiring fireplace remodeling contractors near you, follow these steps:
Get at least three detailed, in-person estimates in person to compare.
Ask for recommendations from family, friends, or neighbors.
Read reviews and browse photos of previous work on HomeGuide and Google.
Choose a licensed, insured, and bonded company.
Ask for an itemized contract and warranty in writing.
Avoid paying in full or in cash before the work is done.
Questions to ask
Ask these questions before hiring a fireplace remodel contractor:
How long have you been installing and remodeling fireplaces?
Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
Will you use subcontractors for this project?
What materials do you recommend for my fireplace?
Will you pull any necessary permits?
Are materials and cleanup included in the quote?
How will you dispose of the debris, and is that included?
What's your plan for dust control inside the house?