Gas fireplace inserts can transform your living area, providing heat and a cozy glow without the expense and mess of wood. However, there are some costs to consider beyond the price of the insert itself. If you're planning to invest in this option, review some of the additional costs you'll need to factor into your budget.

What Costs Are Involved When Installing a Fireplace Insert?

1. Arranging the Permit

Before beginning work on your insert, you'll need to get a permit from your town or village to ensure the installation is inspected and up to code. This will often cost between $40 and $125.

Additionally, a new gas insert represents a capital improvement, so  sales tax is included in the purchase of materials. However, labor and delivery are not taxed once you complete the installer's capital improvement form.

2. Installing the Gas Line

Once you've chosen the perfect fireplace insert for your space, you'll need to install a gas line from the basement to the shut-off valve in the room, and then to the firebox. This part is generally charged by the foot.  Although, most fireplace contractors can run gas line, there are some that require a licensed plumber.  Should the pipe have to run outside and around the building due to slab construction under the fireplace, it'll should be installed by a licensed plumber.

3. Creating the Co-Linear Vent Liner System

The chimney vent consists of two air channels or tubes of flexible pipe, which are run from a cap at the top of the chimney and attach to the top of the insert. The  cap at the top of the chimney is then sealed to the masonry with silicone to prevent moisture, animals and additional air flow down the flue. If your roof is exceptionally high or too dangerous to climb, the installers will have to hire a lift truck, adding to the expense.

4. Adding the Insert

When it comes to installing the insert itself, many decisions can affect the price. First, you'll  to choose the materials, such as the insert body, the logs design, and the interior panel color, which can range from brick to flat black or reflective. Additionally, you'll be able to choose between finishes and designs for the face and trim panel, or design custom features.

4. Labor

The cost of labor includes the professional knowledge and skill required to install the materials, including the gas line, electrical tie-in and vent system. Installers must climb ladders with the venting components to feed down the chimney as well as carrying in the unit.  The final process of setting up the interior log display and fine-tuning the fireplace insert is best done by the manufacturer’s representative who sold you the unit and is most knowledgeable of the products features.

The most important thing to remember is that the enjoyment and popularity of a new gas insert is worth the costs involved and the value of your home will increase proportionally.  Start the process with a professional you and enjoy the beautiful and convenience of a new gas insert from Mendota, Jotul, or Kozy Heat.

If you need professional fireplace insert installation that’ll last, contact Cricket on the Hearth in Rochester, NY. This team offers an incredible variety of products and the expertise needed to make installation as easy as possible. They can usually finish installing an insert in just half a day, with total costs ranging from $4,500 to $7,000, depending on your selections and the length of the gas line. Visit their website to browse their selection of beautiful inserts by Mendota, Kozy Heat and Jotul and receive updates on their sales via Twitter. If you have any questions, call (585) 385-2420 or visit their showroom.