A fireplace insert is a sealed box that is placed (inserted) into an existing masonry fireplace. As a result, the old inefficient wood fireplace is upgraded to a new high-efficiency wood, gas, or propane fireplace that will produce more heat and use less fuel.

A fireplace insert is basically a stove, wood or gas, that is designed to be inserted into a fireplace that is already there. Usually a wood burning fireplace built with the home will get an “insert” put inside of it. Inserts are the most common thing that we do.

You can generally tell you have a fireplace insert if the firebox is metal and surrounded by a steel shell. To know for sure what type of insert you have, look for the nameplate under the grill by the pilot light and gas valve.

How much does a fireplace insert cost? Most fireplace inserts and a professional installation cost about $2,000 to $4,000, depending on the state of your existing chimney and the model you select.

Installing a wood stove or a hearth insert typically costs an average of $3,000-$4,000, including the stovepipe and labor costs, according to the Hearth, Patio, & Barbecue Association.

An alternative solution to pulling out your zero clearance firebox is to add a gas fireplace insert into an existing zero clearance wood burning fireplace. This new gas insert will be more convenient and will operate more efficiently than your old wood burning zero clearance fireplace.

Many people have often asked if they can install a wood burning insert into a builder grade fireplace and the short answer is yes you can. Now wood burning inserts can also be placed in prefabricated fireplaces, but again you are going to need to be careful on what insert you buy as not all inserts will work.

Masonry fireplaces and chimneys are constructed on site from stone or brick and mortar, and are part of the home’s structural design. Typically, these fireplaces and chimneys are built as the house is built.

Secondly, yes, they are extremely energy-efficient, as opposed to traditional wood-burning or natural gas fireplaces. In fact, many people use masonry fireplaces to heat a room or rooms in their homes. A masonry fireplace is also the cleanest way to burn firewood, which helps minimize air pollution.

The firebox of a concrete or masonry fireplace shall have a minimum depth of 20 inches (508 mm). The throat shall be not less than 8 inches (203 mm) above the fireplace opening. The throat opening shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in depth.

Masonry fireplaces are often the most expensive due to the exquisite craftsmanship that goes into building them. On average, masonry fireplaces cost between $3,500 and $5,600. However, they can cost up to $10,000 or more for larger and more detailed designs built by a stonemason.