Last updated on March 31st, 2022
Cost to build a fireplace
Want to add a fireplace to your home? In this guide find out the average cost to build a fireplace in the UK for different types of fireplace.
Fireplaces have been central features in homes for centuries, and they’re still one of the most popular ways to heat a room and add character at the same time. In this guide, we look at the average cost to build a fireplace in the UK and the various options available.
If your current home doesn’t have a fireplace, fret not. You can have a fireplace built, ready for your own cosy evenings in front of the fire. Read on to find out how much it will cost to install your new fireplace.
| Type of fire | Range - Low | Range - High | Average cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Build / install fireplace | £600 | £3,850 | £2,000 |
| Create fireplace and install entire chimney system | £1,900 | £3,500 | £2,750 |
| Build / install brick fireplace | £920 | £3,850 | £1,770 |
| Build / install a stone fireplace | £600 | £3,450 | £1,380 |
| Build / install gas fireplace | £500 | £700 | £600 |
| Build / install wood burning fireplace | £550 | £3,000 | £1,775 |
Our costs are ballpark averages – get a local tradesperson to quote now
How much does it cost to build a fireplace?
The average cost to install a fireplace will depend on the type of fireplace you want to create and can range from £600 – £3,850. Installing a small pre-made fireplace unit will be quite a lot cheaper than the cost to build a large bespoke stone fireplace.
If your home has an old fireplace that has been closed up, you can open up the fireplace and restore it to its former glory. For information about prices, check out our guide on the cost of opening up a fireplace.
How much does it cost to build a fireplace and chimney?
If you want to have an entire fireplace and chimney system installed, you’ll need to first create a fireplace and then install the new chimney breast. The cost to install a fireplace and chimney is in the region of £1,900 – £3,500.
How much does it cost to build a wood burning fireplace and chimney?
In order to create a wood-burning fireplace you can either add a wood burner to an existing fireplace or create a new fireplace and hearth. Here are some of the average options for the cost to build a wood burning fireplace:
Cost to build a wood burning fireplace with an existing fireplace
- Use existing flue – £550
- Install a new flue in an existing chimney – £1,150
- Install an external twin wall flue system – £2,550
Cost to build a wood burning fireplace with a new fireplace
- Use existing flue – £900
- Install a new flue in an existing chimney – £1,500
- Install an external twin wall flue system – £3,000
To find out more about the price of wood burners, check out our guide to the cost of wood-burning stoves.
How much does it cost to build a gas fireplace?
If you’re looking to install a non-chimney gas fireplace, you’ll be looking at a cost of around £500 – £700. This includes the supply and installation cost of a new gas fireplace.
As with all gas-related installations, we always recommend hiring a qualified gas engineer to carry out any work involving gas fires.
Cost to build an outdoor fireplace
To add a fireplace feature to your garden, the average cost to build an outdoor fireplace or fire pit is around £300 – £1,000. You can find out more about prices in our fire pit cost guide.
How much does it cost to build a stone / masonry fireplace?
For a more striking feature in your home, stone/masonry fireplaces are a great option. The average cost to build a stone/masonry fireplace ranges from £600 – £3,450, depending on the size, the complexity of the fireplace design, and the quality of materials used.
Unless you’re experienced in dealing with stone and masonry work, you’ll want to hire a professional to design and install your stone fireplace.
How much does it cost to build a brick fireplace?
Brick fireplaces are one of the most common choices for British homeowners and offer a classic style to your home. The average cost to build a brick fireplace is in the region of £920 – £3,850, depending on the size of the fireplace, the quantity and quality of bricks, and the labour costs.
Fireplace installation cost calculator
If you want to calculate the cost to install a fireplace in your home, you need to factor in all of the key considerations that will impact the price.
First up, the size and type of fireplace will have a major effect on the quotes you’ll receive. As you can see in the table above, some fireplaces cost more than others and creating one in a small chimney breast will cost less than in a wide country-kitchen style fireplace.
Another major factor is how much work needs to be done to create a safe fireplace. Do you need a completely new chimney system added, or is it a case of using the existing one and just replacing the fireplace? Beyond this, labour costs will make up a fair amount of your fireplace installation cost, with rates being higher in London and the South East than elsewhere in the UK.
As an example, building a wood-burning fireplace using an existing chimney system, with the installation of a new flue may cost you £1,500.
Quotes for the cost to build a fireplace
We always recommend obtaining at least three quotes from fireplace specialists. Our request a quote feature is perfect for getting quotes – you post details about the job you want doing and we’ll send it out to local tradespeople in your area. Try it out – it’s quick and easy!
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