Installing a wood burning stove can transform your home. It provides warmth, adds charm, and can lower heating bills. But one of the first questions homeowners ask is: how much does it cost to install a wood burning stove?
In this guide, we’ll break down wood burning stove installation cost, factors that affect pricing, and what to expect when planning your installation. This way, you can budget smartly and make an informed decision.
How Much Does a Wood Burning Stove Installation Cost?
On average, the wood burning stove installation cost ranges from $1,500 to $5,500, depending on the stove type, installation complexity, and your home’s layout.
Here’s a quick pricing overview:
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Small or freestanding stove installation: $1,500 – $3,000
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Standard wood stove installation with chimney or flue: $2,500 – $4,500
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Complex installations or insert installations: $3,500 – $5,500
This includes materials, labor, and standard safety requirements.
Why Wood Burning Stove Installation Costs Vary
Several factors affect the total cost of wood burning stove installation:
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Type of stove: Freestanding stoves are usually cheaper than inserts. Log burners can cost more because of flue and hearth requirements.
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Chimney or flue setup: If your home needs a new flue or chimney modifications, installation cost increases.
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Home layout and access: Installing on upper floors or tight spaces adds labor costs.
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Hearth and ventilation: Proper hearth protection and ventilation are required for safety, and may increase cost.
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Additional features: Glass doors, blowers, or heat shields can add to total wood stove installation cost.
Wood Burning Stove Installation Cost Breakdown
1. Wood Stove or Log Burner Price
The stove itself is a major factor. Prices include:
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Freestanding wood stove: $700 – $2,500
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Log burner: $1,200 – $3,000
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Wood stove insert: $1,500 – $3,500
Higher-end models with larger output or premium finishes increase your total cost.
2. Chimney or Flue Installation
If your home doesn’t have a suitable flue, costs rise. Options include:
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New stainless steel flue: $800 – $2,000
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Installing through existing chimney: $500 – $1,500
Proper installation ensures draft efficiency and safety, preventing smoke and carbon monoxide issues.
3. Hearth Installation
A compliant hearth is mandatory for safety. Costs vary:
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Basic hearth pad: $200 – $500
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Custom or extended hearth: $500 – $1,200
4. Labor Cost
Professional installation ensures compliance with local codes. Labor cost depends on:
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Stove type
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Chimney complexity
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Access to installation site
Typical labor: $600 – $2,000
5. Additional Components
Some homes require extra parts:
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Heat shields: $100 – $400
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Wall thimbles: $50 – $150
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Venting components: $100 – $500
These ensure safety and efficiency.
Average Wood Stove Installation Cost by Type
| Stove Type | Average Installation Cost |
|---|---|
| Freestanding wood stove | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Log burner | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Wood stove insert | $3,500 – $5,500 |
| Wood burning stove insert | $3,500 – $5,000 |
How Much to Install a Fireplace vs Wood Stove?
Many homeowners compare costs with fireplace installation:
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Standard fireplace installation: $2,000 – $6,000
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Wood burning stove installation: $1,500 – $5,500
Wood stoves are often cheaper and more efficient than building a new fireplace.
Cost to Put in a Fireplace or Wood Burner
Here’s a quick guide for common questions:
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How much to put in a fireplace: $2,000 – $6,000
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How much to install a wood burning stove: $1,500 – $5,500
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Wood heater installation cost: $1,500 – $4,500
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Log burner installation cost: $2,000 – $4,000
Fireplace Cost vs Wood Stove Cost
A full fireplace build can cost $3,000 to $10,000, while a wood stove offers similar warmth and ambiance at a lower price. Stoves also require less space and can be installed in more locations.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Wood Burner or Log Burner?
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Freestanding wood burner: $1,500 – $3,000
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Insert or wood stove insert: $3,500 – $5,500
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Wood burning stove with new flue: $3,000 – $5,000
Factors Affecting Price
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Home access and installation complexity
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Local building codes and inspections
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Type of stove or insert
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Hearth, flue, and venting requirements
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Additional safety components
Planning ahead reduces surprises.
Average Wood Stove Installation Cost
Considering all materials and labor, the average wood stove installation cost is roughly $2,500 – $4,000 for a standard single-story home.
Wood Stove Installation Cost vs Fireplace Cost
Wood stoves often have a lower initial cost and higher efficiency:
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Wood stove efficiency: 70–85%
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Fireplace efficiency: 20–30% (traditional)
They provide heat faster and are easier to maintain.
DIY vs Professional Installation
Installing a wood-burning stove yourself is not recommended. Risks include:
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Fire hazards
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Improper ventilation
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Non-compliance with building codes
Professional installers ensure safety, proper draft, and compliance.
Safety Considerations
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Follow local building codes
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Install heat shields where required
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Ensure adequate clearance from walls and furniture
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Install carbon monoxide detectors
These steps prevent fires and protect your family.
How Long Does Installation Take?
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Freestanding stove: 1 day
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Insert stove or complex chimney setup: 2–3 days
Weather and home access can affect the timeline.
Is Wood Stove Installation Worth the Cost?
Yes. Benefits include:
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Lower heating bills
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Efficient heat distribution
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Cozy atmosphere
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Potential increase in home value
A properly installed wood stove is safe, efficient, and long-lasting.
FAQs
1. How much does it cost to install a wood-burning stove?
The average cost to install a wood-burning stove ranges from $1,500 to $5,500, depending on stove type, chimney or flue requirements, and installation complexity.
2. What is the cost to put in a fireplace with a wood stove?
Installing a wood stove in a fireplace typically costs $2,500 to $4,500, including labor, flue setup, and hearth installation. Complex setups can exceed $5,000.
3. How much is a log burner installation?
Log burner installation costs usually fall between $2,000 and $4,000. Factors affecting price include chimney height, venting, and stove size.
4. Does wood stove installation include a chimney or flue?
Not always. If your home requires a new chimney or flue, additional costs of $500 to $2,000 may apply for stainless steel or other flue materials.
5. Is it cheaper to install a wood stove or build a new fireplace?
Wood stove installation is generally cheaper, costing $1,500–$5,500, compared to building a new fireplace, which can range from $3,000 to $10,000, while providing similar heat and ambiance.
Final Thoughts
The cost of installing a wood-burning stove varies from $1,500 to $5,500, depending on stove type, flue requirements, and installation complexity. Understanding all components—stove, hearth, flue, and labor—helps homeowners budget accurately and ensures safe installation.
Whether installing a freestanding stove, log burner, or insert, professional installation is critical to protect your home and maximize efficiency.
The Expert Chimney Team provides research-based guidance and practical tips on fireplaces, chimneys, and home safety. With 6 years of editorial experience, we help homeowners maintain safe, efficient, and well-functioning homes with clear, easy-to-understand advice. Read More
