What this covers
A new fireplace can be a site-built masonry firebox and chimney, a factory-built wood or gas unit with its own listed chimney or vent, or an electric unit that needs no venting. The company helps choose the type for the room and the house, then plans the route of the chimney or vent, frames the chase or wall to the clearances the manufacturer and the code set, installs the hearth extension, and finishes the surround and mantel. Gas units are connected by a licensed gas fitter. Where a permit is required, the company pulls it and schedules the inspection.
When to call
- A great room, den or basement that you want built around a fireplace.
- A fireplace lost in a fire or removed during a rebuild.
- An old fireplace that cannot be repaired and needs replacing.
What to expect
- ChooseWood, gas or electric, and site-built or factory-built, are decided for the room.
- Plan ventingThe chimney or vent route, clearances and any permit are worked out.
- BuildThe chase or wall is framed, the unit and venting are set, and gas is connected where used.
- Finish and inspectHearth, surround and mantel are finished and the installation is inspected.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
What are clearances?
The minimum distances between a fireplace or chimney and anything that can burn, such as framing, trim and a mantel. The manufacturer's instructions and the local code set them, and the inspector checks them.
Does every fireplace need a chimney?
Wood-burning fireplaces do. Many gas units vent through a wall with a direct-vent pipe, and electric units need no venting at all.
Can a fireplace go in a basement?
Often, yes. A direct-vent gas or electric unit is the usual choice because it does not need a full chimney, though the vent route still has to work.
Related: Gas fireplace inserts · Fireplace refacing · Gas line installation · All specialty interiors
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.