Cost To Add Gas Fireplace Screened Porch

Cost to Add Gas Fireplace to Screened Porch

Adding a gas fireplace to your screened porch can be a great way to enhance your outdoor living space and make it more comfortable to use during the cooler months. However, before you start planning your installation, it's important to understand the costs involved. In this article, we'll break down the key factors that affect the cost of adding a gas fireplace to a screened porch and provide you with some helpful tips for estimating your budget.

Type of Gas Fireplace

The type of gas fireplace you choose is one of the biggest factors that will affect the cost of your installation. There are three main types of gas fireplaces: direct vent, ventless, and insert. Direct vent fireplaces are the most common type, and they require a vent pipe to be installed to the outside of your home in order to exhaust the combustion gases. Ventless fireplaces do not require a vent pipe, but they are less efficient than direct vent fireplaces and may not be allowed in all areas. Insert fireplaces are designed to be installed into an existing wood-burning fireplace.

Size of Gas Fireplace

The size of the gas fireplace is another important factor that will affect the cost of your installation. Larger fireplaces require more materials and labor to install, so they will typically cost more than smaller fireplaces. The size of the fireplace will also affect the amount of heat it can produce, so it's important to choose a size that is appropriate for the size of your screened porch. Generally, a fireplace with a heat output of 15,000 BTUs is sufficient for a 12 x 12 foot porch.

Materials

The materials used to construct your gas fireplace will also affect the cost of your installation. Fireplaces made from natural materials, such as stone or brick, will typically cost more than fireplaces made from man-made materials, such as concrete or metal. The type of finish you choose for your fireplace will also affect the cost. For example, a fireplace with a tile surround will typically cost more than a fireplace with a painted or stained finish.

Labor

The cost of labor to install your gas fireplace will vary depending on the complexity of the installation and the rates charged by the contractor you hire. The cost of labor will typically be higher for fireplaces that require a vent pipe to be installed or for fireplaces that are installed in difficult-to-access areas.

Other Costs

In addition to the cost of the fireplace itself, there are a few other costs that you may need to consider when budgeting for your installation. These costs may include: - The cost of a permit (if required by your local building code) - The cost of a gas line (if you do not already have one installed) - The cost of a chimney (if required) - The cost of a mantel or surround (if desired) - The cost of annual maintenance

Tips for Estimating Your Budget

To estimate the cost of adding a gas fireplace to your screened porch, you can start by getting quotes from several different contractors. Once you have a few quotes, you can compare the costs of different types and sizes of fireplaces and choose the option that best fits your budget. Here are a few additional tips for estimating your budget: - Be sure to factor in the cost of all of the materials and labor involved in the installation. - Consider the cost of any permits or inspections that may be required. - Shop around for the best prices on materials and labor.

By following these tips, you can get a good estimate of the cost of adding a gas fireplace to your screened porch and start planning your installation.