A wood-burning fire is undeniably cozy, especially when unwinding after a long day.
Many homes in North America either have a built-in fireplace or a wood stove unit. But between a wood stove vs fireplace, which is better?
When choosing between the two wood burning solutions, there’s a lot to consider, including the installation and running cost, safety, life span, and heat output.
We’ll take a closer look at both of these heat sources, highlight the main features, and discuss the most notable differences between a wood stove and a fireplace.
The average price for each is around $2,500 for a wood stove installation vs $4,000 for a fireplace.
To get started on installing a new heating system, contact our local pros for FREE ESTIMATES!
Wood Stove vs Fireplace – What Are They?
You can probably differentiate between a wood stove and a fireplace. To understand their similarities and differences, it’s essential to define them properly.
A fireplace is a pretty large structure with ventilation, designed to burn and contain a fire.
Naturally, fireplaces are made from fire-resistant materials like stone or brick. Other structural elements of a fireplace are a firebox and hollow flue.
The firebox, which can vary in size, is where you place and burn firewood. It’s connected to the flue that leads to the house’s chimney.
Fireplaces have a long history and were the only indoor heat source for centuries. Nowadays, even though they are a popular heat source, they’re also ornamental.
A wood stove is a more modern heating source and could also be considered a household appliance.
The wood stove has a firebox and ventilation pipe and connects to a chimney, just like a fireplace.
Because it usually has a larger ventilation pipe, a wood stove can heat larger spaces.
It might seem as though wood stoves are obsolete, but that’s not accurate. Many homeowners include wood stoves as the primary or secondary heat source in their dwellings.
Wood Stove vs Fireplace Total Cost
If you’re considering the best ways to heat your home, fireplaces and wood stoves may be your top choices.
Of course, the overall cost is often the most critical factor for many homeowners.
So, what is the average total cost of installing a fireplace or a wood stove?
While the price may vary depending on many factors, installing a wood stove costs between $320 and $4,000 on the low and high end. The national average for a wood stove stands at about $2,500.
The installation cost of a fireplace ranges between $700 and $8,000, but the average is around $4,000.
| Cost | Wood Fireplace | Wood Stove |
|---|---|---|
| Low-End | $700 | $320 |
| Average | $4,000 | $2,500 |
| High | $8,000 | $4,000 |
Cost To Install A Wood Fireplace vs A Wood Stove
We’ve discussed national price averages and defined the expected range. But it’s crucial to understand what factors impact such significant differences in cost.
Before we address each element that increases or decreases the price of a fireplace or wood stove, it’s vital to note that fireplaces are more expensive.
Unless you’ve purchased a home with an existing fireplace, hiring a contractor to install the fireplace will be a significant investment.
Wood stoves can also be pricey, but they’re generally more affordable and easier to install.
Did you know? Fireplaces are excellent for zone heating. They are remarkable at heating a single room while other rooms remain colder. A fireplace creates a cozy ambiance, and the fire typically burns very hot.
Factors That Impact Wood Fireplace Installation Cost
If you’re keen on installing a wood fireplace in your home but are wondering about the cost, here’s what you need to keep in mind.
| Additional Cost | Wood Fireplace |
|---|---|
| New Flue | $400-$1900 |
| New Firebox | $350-$4,000 |
| Fireproof Wall Panel | $100 |
| Chimney Liner Installation | $1,000-$2,000 |
Materials
Without question, one of the most significant factors that drive the cost of the fireplace is the material.
Most non-combustible materials are pricey, whether you choose stone, brick, marble, or poured concrete.
Wood-burning fireplaces are usually more expensive than gas or electric because they need special coverings too.
Labor
Installing a fireplace is not a DIY project unless you have ample experience and know precisely what you’re doing. Therefore, homeowners will need to find a reliable fireplace installer.
Unlike installing an electric fireplace that typically only requires a specialized insert, wood-burning fireplaces feature a more complex installation.
Also, decorative masonry work will cost more.
Ventilation
Your fireplace needs to meet local building codes, including paying extra attention to proper ventilation.
Wood-burning fireplaces require suitable ventilation in order to eliminate toxic fumes and smoke that can otherwise endanger household members. This is another cost to consider if your home doesn’t already have an existing fireplace and adequate ventilation.
Customization
Fireplaces can be incredibly versatile, ranging from small, wood-burning areas to large, luxurious embellishments.
When discussing fireplace customization, the total cost can end up going over $20,000-$30,000, but can also be just $100 extra for adding a single fireproof wall panel on the nearby wall.
Remodeling
If your home has an existing fireplace you want to remodel, you’ll need to prepare for additional expenses.
For example, a brand-new flue can cost between $400 and $1,900, and replacing a firebox is around $350-$4,000.
Chimney Liner Installation
It’s crucial to keep safety as a priority when installing a fireplace.
Sometimes that includes a new chimney liner that protects the house from catching fire.
Generally, a new chimney liner costs between $1,000 and $2,000.
Removing or Converting an Existing Fireplace
If you’ve purchased a home with an old and non-functional fireplace, you may need to replace it entirely instead of repairing it.
This process often uncovers unforeseen issues like wood rot and chimney leaks.
These repairs add up, along with removing the broken flue and firebox.
If you’re converting a fireplace from gas to wood, it will cost extra.
Pro Tip: Proper maintenance is the key to fireplace and wood stove safety. It’s crucial to keep carpets and furniture away from the fire source and check for damage before each use. Installing a smoke detector and carbon monoxide sensor can make a critical difference.
Factors That Impact Wood Stove Installation Cost
If you’re more partial to the idea of a wood stove but aren’t sure whether it fits into your budget, here’s what you need to keep in mind.
Stove Type
Homeowners have three options when choosing a wood stove: catalytic, non-catalytic, and hybrid.
The catalytic wood stove is ideal for sustained overnight fires and if you’re planning to use the stove as a primary heat source.
Non-catalytic wood stoves are designed as supplemental heat sources, perfect for occasional use.
The hybrid version combines the two properties by including two burning chambers.
Stove Material
The bulk of the wood stove price revolves around the construction material.
There are two prevalent options: cast iron and stainless steel.
Cast-iron stoves are around 30% more expensive than stainless steel, and are more visually appealing and versatile.
Cast-iron stoves may have soapstone panels that help release heat slowly and many hours after the fire is extinguished.
Labor
While installing a wood stove is less complicated than building a new fireplace, the labor cost will affect the price.
Whether you need a new ventilation system or chimney repair, the installation can range between $250 and $800.
Stove Brand
Because the wood stove is an appliance, homeowners can research brands and find units that appeal to them the most.
Some brands import wood stoves from Scandinavia, while others design and manufacture them in the U.S.
Some of the most well-known wood stove brands include Jøtul, Blaze King, Lopi, Unforgettable Fire, Woodstock Soapstone, and Vermont Castings.
Heating Capacity
A wood stove’s heating capacity will also affect its price.
The smallest stoves have a 1,000-square-foot heating capacity, are non-catalytic, and are usually made from stainless steel.
Stoves that can heat more than 3,000 square feet and feature cast-iron construction and catalytic combustion have the highest heating capacity.
Cost to Run a Wood Fireplace vs A Wood Stove
When buying a wood-burning fireplace or stove, homeowners must consider the firewood cost.
Typically, you can purchase a cord (128 cubic feet) of firewood, but half or third cords are also available.
How much firewood you’ll need largely depends on your area’s winters.
If your winters are particularly long or harsh, you may require four to five cords of firewood per season, each ranging between $150 and $500, depending on the type of wood and your location.
Some homeowners purchase logs and prepare the firewood independently, which is significantly less expensive.
But which is more costly, running a fireplace or a wood stove? It all depends on how you intend to use them.
If a fireplace is meant to be the primary heat source, it will be more expensive.
Wood stoves are more energy efficient and don’t require the amount of firewood as the fireplace.
Did you know? There are around 35 fireplaces and chimneys in the White House. Fireplaces were the primary heating sources for many years, and the building’s northwest corner was the most difficult to heat.
Which Is Safer: The Wood Stove Or The Wood Fireplace?
It probably doesn’t surprise you that the wood stove is considered the safer option between the two.
Typically, the wood stove has a door made from fire-resistant material that prevents direct contact with the fire.
Both fireplaces and wood stoves might be dangerous if not used properly.
Protecting small children and pets from getting too close to these heating sources is crucial.
Still, fireplaces require special attention when it comes to safety, so let’s discuss ways to make these heat sources safer for everyone.
Prevent Creosote Buildup
Creosote is a highly flammable wood-burning byproduct. It continuously builds up inside the chimney and can ignite.
It’s advisable to clean creosote as often as possible, but you can also do a lot to prevent it.
Always use dry and seasoned wood, have professional fireplace inspections at least once per year, and make sure there’s enough air in your fire.
Use a Chimney Flue Cap
One of the potential dangers of owning a fireplace is that small animals, like birds, can enter or throw items down the chimney.
An excellent prevention strategy is chimney flue cap installation.
This can also be a DIY project if you’re comfortable climbing to the roof.
Install a Fireplace Screen
Fireplaces are gorgeous, but the small embers may jump out and burn the carpet or hardwood floor because they don’t have glass doors or screens like a wood stove.
Instead of worrying about this issue, consider installing heat-proof glass or a screen.
Organize Fireplace Accessories
Fireplace safety measures include keeping matches, lighters, pokers, and other accessories hidden away from small children.
Having the smoke detector and fire extinguisher nearby is an important preventative strategy.
A Comparison Of The Heat Output: Wood Stove vs Fireplace
We’ve touched on this difference somewhat, but it’s vital to highlight it.
A wood stove has a much greater heat output than a wood-burning fireplace. A wood-burning stove has an 80% heat output efficiency, whereas a fireplace has only 25%.
In fact, wood fireplaces are considered some of the least efficient heat sources.
While a fireplace can be the primary heat source in hot climates with few cold days, they are generally not the best option in northern areas.
Stove vs Fireplace: Which Is Easier To Install?
In most cases, installing a fireplace is much more complicated than installing a wood stove.
New fireplaces require complex masonry work and often need a new chimney constructed.
Wood stoves need an exhaust pipe and proper ventilation, but don’t require a chimney. Also, a wood stove is a single unit that you can quickly assemble.
What’s The Average Life Span Of A Stove vs A Fireplace?
With proper maintenance, fireplaces and wood stoves can last for decades.
Fireplaces usually have a longer life span than stoves. The fireplace’s complex structure and installation ensure they remain functional for many years.
With routine cleaning and inspections, fireplaces can stay in excellent condition and look great for generations.
When it comes to wood stoves, the quality of the material and construction matter a lot. A small stainless steel stove is unlikely to last past 10 years, but a larger cast-iron stove may serve for decades.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check whether you need a permit to install a wood stove in your home. Typically, the permit costs between $50 and $250, and the price may vary depending on your location.
The Environmental Ratings Of Wood Stoves And Fireplaces
Wood-burning heat sources are more environmentally sustainable than coal, natural gas, and fossil fuels.
Wood is a renewable energy source, thus a great choice for homeowners with a more eco-friendly mindset.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ratings for fireplaces and wood stoves.
According to the EPA, fireplaces are not considered primary heat sources, but wood stoves are.
It’s vital to point out that the EPA has ratings for specific fireplace and wood stove manufacturers and models. So consider whether the model you’re considering has an EPA rating.
Wood Stove vs Fireplace – Similarities And Differences Summarized
What do wood fireplaces and stoves have in common?
The most obvious answer is, they both use wood as a heat source.
Another similarity is that they come in many designs and styles.
But perhaps it’s best to focus on their differences and see how they compare.
- A fireplace is fixed construction, whereas you can relocate the wood stove.
- Fireplaces usually don’t have doors, whereas wood stoves do.
- Fireplaces are less energy efficient than wood stoves.
- Fireplaces require more safety measures than wood stoves.
Wood Stove vs Fireplace: Pros And Cons
Choosing a wood stove or a fireplace for your home can be challenging, so weighing in on all the pros and cons is essential.
Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of the two heating sources.
Wood Fireplace Pros:
- The stunning focal point of any living space
- Creates a cozy and relaxing ambiance
- Typically increases the overall value of a home
Wood Fireplace Cons:
- Not practical for larger spaces due to low energy output
- Expensive installation and repairs
- Requires regular cleaning and inspections
Wood Stove Pros:
- Much higher heat output and better energy efficiency
- More flexible when it comes to placement
- Safer because the firebox is sealed with a door
Wood Stove Cons:
- Hot to the touch and potentially dangerous
- Maintenance required for optimal performance
- Many cheap and low-quality models
Extra Features Of A Wood Stove
There is another wood stove advantage many homeowners will appreciate.
Most notably, you can use a stove for cooking, provided you have the right equipment.
You can cook a meal on your wood stove with cast iron pots and pans, grilling baskets, and heat-proof gloves.
This comes in handy if you live in an area with frequent power outages or if you need a meal preparation solution for a cottage.
Can You Put A Wood Stove In A Fireplace?
Yes, you can put a wood stove in an empty fireplace.
It’s a fantastic solution for those who want a fireplace’s appearance but a wood stove’s heating quality.
It’s crucial to have enough space for the stove to fit, along with a fully functioning chimney. You will also likely need to install a flue liner.
Wood Stove vs Fireplace – Which One Is Best?
As with most purchase and home improvement choices, a lot of the decision comes down to personal preference, needs, and budget.
Still, as an overall heating solution, wood stoves are better.
They burn less firewood, cost less to install, and produce much more heat than fireplaces.
On the other hand, it’s hard to deny the appeal of a wood-burning fireplace and the effect it creates.
Conclusion
The wood stove is the obvious answer when choosing between a fireplace and a wood stove when you need a new primary heat source.
Even the EPA doesn’t consider fireplaces anything but a secondary heat source.
Still, fireplaces are excellent for zone heating and reducing utility bills when the weather gets very cold.
But wood stoves are practical, freestanding appliances that feature a rustic look. They can also be pricey, but there are some affordable solutions.
Whichever you choose, keep in mind that you’ll need to organize the firewood purchase and develop a fire safety routine.
You may need to check with your home’s insurance company as well.
Both a fireplace and a wood stove will deliver that cozy, wood-burning sound and scent you can enjoy in your home for years to come.
