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5 Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Home Fireplace

Save time, money, and frustration with these expert tips

You don’t decide to buy a new gas, electric, or wood fireplace very often. Maybe once or twice in a lifetime? So when it’s time to invest in a new modern fireplace for your living room, where do you even start? And how can you avoid the common frustrations that might delay your home improvement project?

Save yourself time, money, and headaches by avoiding these 5 critical fireplace buying mistakes.

Table of Contents

1. Not Budgeting Properly for Your Fireplace Installation Project

2. Getting Overwhelmed by Complex Fireplace Types and Information

3. Purchasing a Gas or Electric Fireplace Without an In-Home Preview

4. Compromising on Fireplace Installation Quality and Safety

5. Abandoning Your Fireplace Project Because It Seems Too Complicated

Mistake #1: Not Budgeting Properly for Your Fireplace Installation Project

Because it’s such an infrequent purchase, a new gas or electric fireplace can be difficult to budget for. You need to consider not only the price of the fireplace unit itself but also the full installation costs. If you purchase a fireplace from a company that doesn’t handle installation, you’ll need to coordinate with a fireplace installer, an electrician, and possibly your local building department to understand the complete budget picture for your home renovation.

Every project is unique, but there are standard budget guidelines that can help you plan effectively. Our free video library provides detailed information on what you should budget for your entire project, ensuring you have realistic expectations when it’s time to make your purchase.

A properly budgeted fireplace project should account for the unit cost, installation labor, permits, additional materials, and potential electrical work.

Mistake #2: Getting Overwhelmed by Complex Fireplace Types and Information

The variety of indoor fireplace styles, fuel types (gas, electric, wood-burning), ventilation requirements, and industry terminology can be confusing for most homeowners looking to enhance their living room or family room.

The solution is finding a knowledgeable expert at your local fireplace store who can serve as both guide and educator, ensuring you understand all aspects of your fireplace before making a decision. We strongly recommend that no purchase be made until someone from your local store has visited your home, assessed your space, and answered all your questions.

“Investing in a fireplace without understanding the differences between direct vent, vent-free, and electric models is like buying a car without knowing if it runs on gasoline, diesel, or electricity.”

Your local fireplace store can help you navigate all these details with friendly expertise. They’re usually happy to answer your questions and guide you through the process.

Mistake #3: Purchasing a Gas or Electric Fireplace Without an In-Home Preview

If you’re investing thousands of dollars in creating a centerpiece for family gatherings, shouldn’t you be certain the product will work perfectly in your home?

The most reliable way to ensure satisfaction with your new fireplace is to work with a company that handles in-house installation and provides an in-home preview before purchase. This gives you a clearer understanding of how the fireplace will fit in your space, and any potential issues can be addressed in person rather than relying on third-party contractors.

An in-home preview allows professionals to check for proper venting options, clearance requirements, and structural considerations that photos or measurements alone can’t reveal.

Mistake #4: Compromising on Fireplace Installation Quality and Safety

Gas fireplace remote control

You’re introducing fire into your home, so safety must be your absolute priority. A professional installation guarantees this protection for your family. Before selecting an installation company, ask these critical questions:

  • How do they ensure all work meets or exceeds building codes?
  • Is the installation team part of the same company selling you the fireplace?
  • Do they document the installation process with photos to verify code compliance?
  • What happens if incorrect parts are ordered? (This can cause significant delays if the installer isn’t affiliated with the seller)
  • Does the installation company fully honor all factory warranties (both parts and labor)?
  • Do they offer comprehensive free estimates for the entire project?

Your friendly neighborhood fireplace store can provide a no-obligation estimate for your complete project, often at no cost.

Mistake #5: Abandoning Your Fireplace Project Because It Seems Too Complicated

Family in front of wood stove

There’s no denying that installing a fireplace involves multiple steps—but that doesn’t mean it should be overwhelming. The right company will break down the process into simple, manageable phases.

Choose a company that can clearly outline their installation process from start to finish. If they can’t explain their project workflow in under 30 seconds, consider looking elsewhere.

Our proven process for successful installations follows these straightforward steps:

1. Find the perfect fireplace for your specific needs and home design

2. Schedule a free in-home preview with a certified hearth professional

3. Enjoy a safe, efficient, and stress-free installation

Adding a modern fireplace to your home is one of the smartest home improvement investments you can make in terms of property value, energy efficiency, comfort, and lifestyle enhancement. By avoiding these 5 common fireplace buying mistakes, you’ll ensure a smoother, more satisfying experience from selection to installation.