How Much Does a Fireplace Remodel Cost in 2023?

Imagine curling up on a chilly evening in front of a beautiful fireplace, enjoying your favorite cup of hot chocolate—sounds dreamy, doesn’t it? Sadly, this vision can be ruffled if your fireplace looks like it belongs on a horror movie set.

Remodeling your fireplace can breathe new life into your living room. And aesthetics aside, it can boost the resale value of your home. 

Worried this revamp will scorch your bank account? Read on—

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Also, check out our free home renovation budget template.

Average Cost to Redo Fireplace in 2023

Renovating your fireplace can give your space a whole new vibe, and it won’t break the bank. 

On average, you’re looking at spending around $1,200 for a fireplace makeover. 

However, the cost can vary depending on what exactly you want to do. It could be as low as $400 or go up to $2,000.

Fireplace Renovation Cost Based on Different Upgrades

Your fireplace makeover cost will differ depending on the exact updates you choose to make. 

From a simple facelift to a complete transformation, we’re going to break down all associated costs so you know what you’re signing up for.

Reface fireplace cost

This is a smart process where you’ll only update the surface (outer look) of your fireplace without changing its heating operations. 

What you’ll spend on a refacing project largely depends on what materials you’re using: 

1. Wood paneling

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You can go for wood refacing if you want to crank up the cozy vibes of your fireplace. But remember that the International Code Council suggests keeping the wood at least six inches away from the fireplace opening.

And as for wood prices, it’s a mixed bag. 

You would be spending anywhere from just $1 a foot to over $12 per foot, depending on the type of wood you choose. You can also stain the wood if you’re feeling fancy.

2. Stucco or concrete refacing

When it comes to giving your fireplace a makeover, concrete is a wallet-friendly option. This material also gives you the flexibility to customize shapes and colors for a one-of-a-kind fireplace style.

A bag of stucco or concrete costs an average of $9, ranging between $4 and $10. One bag will likely be enough to cover 25 square feet in a one-inch-thick layer. 

Of course, this cost refers only to materials. If you choose to DIY the project, you’ll have to account for the cash you’ll need for tools. Hiring a professional, on the other hand, will add to labor costs.

3. Cost to tile fireplace

With a gazillion colors and design choices, tiles are all the rage in the renovation space.

Depending on your tile preferences, you’re looking at shelling out anything from $1 to $15 per square foot. 

But if you want to go all out with mosaics, be prepared to drop some around $30 to $50 per square foot.

4. Stone veneer

Stone veneer or faux stone is becoming increasingly popular because of its versatility. Plus, it’s affordable and easy to install yourself.

If you’re wondering about the price, the cost of installing stone veneer can be anywhere between $1,880 and $2,630, with an average of $2,250 (including labor costs).

Now, let’s talk about the different types of stone veneers you can choose from:

• Thin stone: It’s light, easy to cut, and about two inches thick.
• Full-dimension stone: This one is really durable and can be anywhere from two to six inches thick.
• Dry stack stone: If you want a cool stacked look, you’ll need stones that fit tightly together.
• Mortared stone: Similar to dry stack, but with mortar between the stones.

You can find budget-friendly stone veneers for around $6 to $9 per square foot. But if you’re looking for something premium, the average can range from $20 to $100 per square foot. 

5. Stone refacing 

Stone fireplaces may cost a bit more than other options, but they come with some cool advantages. First off, they look really nice, and you can personalize them by picking the type of stone you want. 

Plus, stones are super tough, good for the environment, and don’t require much upkeep. 

You’re looking at around $60 per square foot for quartz and granite and around $70 per square foot for slate and soapstone.

Repairing cracks

When remodeling, take the chance to fix any cracks in your fireplace. It’s important to always keep an eye out for them to make sure your fireplace and chimney are in good shape.

For instance, water exposure and the quality of the installation and materials can cause some pesky cracks. If you ignore them, you might end up with smoke and carbon monoxide seeping into your home. Yikes.

If you’ve got just a few cracks, you’re looking at an average repair cost of around $175. But it really depends on how serious the damage is and whether you hire a fireplace company or decide to DIY it. So costs can go up to about $300.

Cost to paint fireplace

Painting a fireplace is a quick and easy way to give your fireplace a makeover. 

Just slap on a fresh coat of paint in a new color. As long as you choose a paint that can handle the heat, you can let your imagination run wild.

Painting a fireplace will usually set you back somewhere between $350 and $650, including labor costs. It all depends on how much paint and equipment you need and whether you decide to hire a pro to do the job.

Installing a mantel

A mantel frames the fireplace, and although originally designed for functional purposes, it’s now a coveted design element in living spaces. 

In fact, mantel decor is an industry in itself—especially when it comes to seasonal items.

If you’re looking to install one, the price will vary based on which route you take: 

• Custom design: Average costs are $2,000 to $5,000 to cover a design from a professional and materials. Expect to pay labor charges of $500 to $1,000 on top of that. 
• Refurbished antique: You find an antique model and customize it to your fireplace. The price can range from $500 to $1,000. 
• Prefabricated: Easy to install and available in a variety of choices:
• $300 to $2,000 for wood.
• $8,000 to $20,000 for marble and limestone.
• $500 to $5,000 for cast-stone marble.

Changing the fuel source

Many homeowners consider switching up their fuel source. Some do this for cost savings and convenience, while others do it because of personal preferences.

Switching from a wood-burning fireplace to gas

This option is low maintenance and burns cleaner. If you choose to switch, expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $5,500. 

On average, it’ll cost you around $3,000, depending on the type of gas fireplace you choose. 

For instance, a gas fireplace insert will cost you anywhere from $500 to $3,500. 

Switching from gas to a wood-burning fireplace 

If the good ol’ traditional wood-burning fireplace is more your style, the installation will cost you anywhere from $835 to a little over $3,000. 

Don’t forget to factor in the chimney remodel and sweep services costs when you’re making this switch.

Chimney repairs are typically more affordable than rebuilds. Expect to spend anywhere from $150 to $7,000 on repairs (most homeowners pay close to $700). 

Meanwhile, a full chimney rebuild can cost between $8,000 and $10,000, on average. 

Safety Features for Fireplace Remodeling

Fireplaces are super captivating, but they can pose some risks if you don’t use them right. To stay safe, modern fireplaces have cool safety features that help prevent accidents.

Here are some upgrades you can consider:

Fire safety screen

A fire safety screen does different things depending on what kind of fireplace you have. 

If you’ve got a gas fireplace, it stops you from accidentally touching the hot glass. And if you’ve got a classic wood-burning one, it keeps the room safe from flames flying around.

You can find a safety screen for as low as fifty bucks, which is pretty affordable. But if you’re after something tailor-made, you might have to put in thousands of dollars.

Carbon monoxide alarm

One thing you have to factor in when it comes to safety is installing a carbon monoxide alarm. It’s actually mandatory to have one in some US states. 

So, when you’re sprucing up your fireplace, budget around $50 for a carbon monoxide alarm.

How Much to Redo a Fireplace: Additional Factors to Consider

Before you start with your fireplace makeover project, here are all the factors you’ll need to consider for an accurate budget—

Resurface fireplace: surround material costs

The fireplace surround is the outer framework of your fireplace. 

Aesthetically speaking, this is one of the most important parts of a fireplace—so homeowners put a good chunk of their budget into the surround.

Now, different materials have different price ranges—and some designs even mix it up with multiple materials. 

But here’s the cool part: You can customize your surround to fit your budget. 

Here’s a rough estimate of what your surround will cost you based on different materials:

Fireplace hearth replacement

A fireplace hearth is the floor inside a fireplace. 

You can use materials like brick or stone—but anything that won’t catch fire can do the trick.

The cost of redoing your fireplace hearth comes down to the material you choose: 

Labor cost of fireplace remodel

There are some remodels you can totally handle yourself, depending on your experience and the scale of the project. But you’ll probably need a pro for most fireplace facelifts. 

Let’s take converting a wood-burning fireplace to a gas-powered one as an example. For safety reasons, you definitely want to hire an experienced contractor for this job.

And if you’re looking to replace a deteriorating fireplace with a new one, that can be quite an overwhelming task for a newbie. 

Fireplace contractors usually charge around $125 for repair jobs. And if you’re considering refacing the surround, you can expect labor charges of at least $1,000. 

Of course, the cost can vary depending on the specifics of your project.

Indoor vs. outdoor fireplace restoration cost

Upgrading your outdoor fireplace will cost you a bit more than indoor fireplace refacing. We’re talking about an extra 10% or so—because not every material can handle the outdoors like a champ.

Thankfully, outdoor fireplaces come in super convenient prefabricated kits or models—so you can expect a smooth-sailing installation. 

These kits can range anywhere from $200 to $3,500. You’ve got some options to fit your budget.

Cheap Fireplace Remodel: Inexpensive Fireplace Ideas

Looking to update your fireplace on a budget? 

Here’s some advice for you— 

The cheapest way to give your fireplace a makeover is by decorating it with accessories like travel knickknacks or seasonal decor. 

But if you’re in the mood for a more significant change, there are a couple of affordable options to consider:

• Add a touch of paint to give your fireplace a fresh look. A different color can completely transform its appearance. 
• Install a new mantel, which can be a stylish focal point. 
• Go for a cost-effective electric fireplace if you’re open to a more modern approach. 

With wood fireplaces, regardless of the update you choose, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Before starting any modifications, make sure your chimney effectively filters smoke and that the materials you plan to use are fire-rated. 

It’s a good idea to have a professional perform a chimney cleaning and inspection to guarantee your family’s safety.

Tax Credits to Help You Save Money

Depending on where you live and the type of remodel you’re planning, you may be able to grab some awesome tax credits and incentives to reduce your overall expense. 

Currently, you can receive a whopping 22% tax credit if you go for a highly efficient wood stove or a larger residential biomass heating system in the US.

The best part? There’s no upper limit on this credit, meaning the amount you get back is solely based on the cost of the unit and installation.

To qualify for this credit, you need to purchase or install a biomass-fueled heater before December 31, 2023. 

Just make sure the product has a thermal efficiency of at least 75% based on the higher heating value (HHV) of the fuel. Not sure what products make the cut? Take a peek at the EPA-certified wood heater database.

Now, here’s a little extra perk for homeowners in Snohomish County, WA. The government has an incentive called the Puget Sound Wood Stove Program (PSWSP). 

This program gives you credit if you decide to swap out your old wood or coal-burning unit for something more efficient. 

You can get a discount of $1,500 to $2,000 on a qualifying clean heating alternative. That’s some serious savings right there.

To qualify for this credit, you’ll need to remove and recycle an old wood stove, wood fireplace insert, or coal-burning device that isn’t certified or doesn’t meet the 2020 EPA standard. 

Unfortunately, traditional brick fireplaces, zero-clearance fireplaces, and built-in units don’t qualify for this benefit. 

And what if you can’t get any tax credits? Turn to good old budgeting. Natalie Graham says she’s a huge fan of zero-based budgeting:

Don’t know where to start? Check out our free and ready-to-use budget templates:

Key Takeaways