How much does fireplace repair cost?
How much does fireplace repair cost?
$100 – $2,000 average repair cost
Average fireplace repair cost
A fireplace repair costs $100 to $2,000, depending on the scope of the damage and the part that needs to be fixed or replaced. Gas and electric fireplace repairs tend to cost less to repair than wood-burning fireplaces. A repairman typically charges $150 to $800 to fix fireplace cracks.
| Fireplace type | Average repair cost |
|---|---|
| Gas | $200 – $1,000 |
| Electric | $100 – $900 |
| Wood-burning | $200 – $2,000 |
| Gel | $150 – $850 |
Fireplace repair cost by service
Fireplace repair costs vary depending on the service. Small parts like thermopiles, valves, and igniters are relatively simple and cost less to replace than bigger parts.
| Part | Average repair cost |
|---|---|
| Firebox | $150 – $1,000 |
| Thermocouple | $150 – $350 |
| Thermopile | $150 – $300 |
| Valve | $150 – $300 |
| Igniter | $90 – $150 |
| Flue | $1,000 – $7,000 |
| Smoke chamber | $500 – $2,000 |
| Leak | $200 – $1,500 |
| Chimney | $200 – $700 |
| Crack | $150 – $800 |
| Pilot light | $100 – $350 |
Gas fireplace igniter replacement cost
A gas fireplace igniter costs $90 to $150 to replace, including labor. This component uses electricity to ignite the gas and start the fire. Over time, the igniter may stop working from age or damage.
Gas fireplace pilot light replacement cost
Replacing a gas pilot light costs $100 to $350 on average for the part and labor. Fireplaces that use a pilot light have a small flame that is on continuously, as opposed to an electric igniter system that only lights the gas when needed.
Fireplace thermocouple replacement cost
Fireplace thermocouple replacement costs $150 to $350 total. The thermocouple sends electrical signals that open and close the valve, which controls the flow of the gas. Without a thermocouple, the pilot light wouldn't work.
Fireplace crack repair cost
Minor fireplace crack repairs cost $150 to $800 for labor and materials, depending on the severity and location. Cracks in hard-to-reach places may cost more to fix than easily accessible areas.
Cost to replace a thermopile
The total cost to replace a thermopile is $150 to $300. A thermopile connects two or more thermocouples to generate more electricity and detect thermal energy. Fireplaces that use thermopiles instead of thermocouples are more powerful and can connect to thermostats.
Firebox repair cost
Firebox repair costs $150 to $1,000, depending on the material and damge. The firebox is the compartment in which the fire burns and is usually made of metal, brick, or stone. Metal fireboxes are prone to cracking, warping, and sometimes rust.
Fireplace gas valve replacement cost
Replacing a fireplace gas valve costs $150 to $300 on average. The gas valve controls the flow of fuel. Contact a plumber or repair service right away if you smell gas or your gas valve isn't working, as a gas leak can cause health problems or a house fire.
Chimney repair cost
Chimney repair costs $200 to $700 for minor jobs like fixing flashing, cracks, or replacing a chimney cap. Extensive chimney repairs cost $1,000 to $3,500 and include crown replacement, brick spalling, rebuilding, or fixing a leaning stack.
Smoke chamber repair cost
Smoke chamber repair costs $500 to $2,000, which is more than other parts because it's hard to access. A smoke chamber is a large compartment shaped like an upside-down funnel that sits between the firebox and the flue and allows the smoke to rise towards the chimney.
Flue repair or replacement cost
Flue repair or replacement costs $1,000 to $7,000 because it's difficult to access. Full replacements are somewhat rare but are necessary when there's major damage or deterioration. If your flue doesn't open and close properly, it will either trap smoke in the home or let outside air inside.
Ask your fireplace repairman if they offer yearly service subscriptions. Many companies offer discounted rates for cleaning and inspections for regular customers.
Cost to repair vs. replace a fireplace
Repairing a fireplace is almost always cheaper and easier than a full replacement:
Remodeling – A fireplace remodel costs $600 to $4,500 for refacing or $500 to $5,000 for a new mantel.
Fireplace install – Installing a new fireplace costs $1,900 to $5,600 for materials and labor.
Gas insert – A gas fireplace insert costs $2,000 to $5,000 installed on average.
Removing a fireplace – Fireplace removal costs $500 to $2,500. Removing the fireplace and chimney costs $3,000 to $6,000.
Convert to gas – Converting a wood fireplace to gas costs $1,500 to $8,000.
Fireplace inspection and cleaning cost
Chimney sweeps charge $150 to $375 on average for a cleaning and inspection, depending on the type of fireplace and how much buildup there is inside. An inspection alone costs $55 to $130.
Before any extensive projects, home inspectors charge $360 to $400 to inspect the chimney, flashing, and roof.
Fireplace repair FAQs
Who repairs gas fireplaces?
Professional fireplace repair companies and some plumbers repair gas fireplaces. Most fireplace service companies offer a range of services regardless of your fuel type.
How often should a fireplace be serviced?
Have your fireplace cleaned and inspected once per year to keep it in working order and catch any issues early on. Gas fireplaces do not have soot buildup like wood-burning fireplaces but tend to work better when serviced every year.
Does homeowners' insurance cover fireplace repair?
Most homeowners' insurance policies cover chimney and fireplace repairs, but coverage varies from company to company. Check with your homeowners' insurance provider to make sure you're covered.
Getting estimates for fireplace service
Follow these steps when hiring a fireplace repair service near you:
Get 3+ in-person estimates to compare.
Browse reviews and pictures on HomeGuide and Google.
Ask for references from previous projects.
Choose a licensed, insured, and bonded repairman.
Ask for an itemized estimate in writing.
Avoid paying in full before the work is done.
Questions to ask
Ask these questions before hiring a fireplace repairman:
How long have you been working with fireplaces?
Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
Do you need to order any parts for this repair?
Will you get any necessary permits?
Are materials and cleanup included in your quote?
How do you handle any on-the-job damage?
Will you give me an estimate and receipt in writing?