Installing a wood stove can completely change the atmosphere of a room. A wood-burning stove provides an additional heating source and creates a welcoming, cozy glow. According to Angi and HomeAdvisor, installing a wood-burning stove costs from $325 to $4,000, depending on the size and type of the wood stove, the installation location, the stove’s capacity, the total installation time, and the complexity of the job. A wood stove’s benefits include better heat than from a fireplace and multiple available placement options throughout the home. Fire safety needs to be a top priority with wood stove installation. Protection for the floor and walls and proper ventilation are important for wood stove installations as well. The addition of heat-resistant materials and inspection fees to ensure compliance with local building codes and wood stove manufacturer specifications can increase the price of installation.
- 1 Factors in Calculating Wood Stove Installation Cost
- 2 Additional Costs and Considerations
- 3 Types of Wood Stoves
- 4 Benefits of Wood Stove Installation
- 5 Wood Stove Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
- 6 How to Save Money on Wood Stove Installation Cost
- 7 Questions to Ask About Wood Stove Installation
- 8 FAQs
Factors in Calculating Wood Stove Installation Cost
How much does it cost to install a wood stove? Wood stove prices for installation are typically less than fireplace installation costs, but the overall expense depends on several factors. The pricing can differ from the national average due to stove type, material, and brand; heating capacity; chimney and liner installation; stove pipe installation; installation location; local labor costs; and permit fees.
Stove Type
Homeowners can choose between three types of wood stoves: catalytic, noncatalytic, and hybrid. Catalytic wood stoves are more appropriate for homeowners who are looking for sustained overnight burns and using the wood stove for a primary heat source. Noncatalytic wood stoves work well for supplemental heating or occasional use. A hybrid wood stove offers a cleaner burn than a noncatalytic stove thanks to a secondary combustion chamber with a catalytic combustor.
Quick Tip: If you’re unsure which stove type suits your home, consider your heating needs. For example, a catalytic stove might be overkill for a small cabin used only on weekends, while a hybrid could strike a balance for a family home needing consistent warmth.
Stove Material
The overall price of a wood stove hinges on the material. Typically made of cast iron or stainless steel, freestanding wood-burning stoves radiate heat evenly, with the cast-iron option able to hold heat for longer. There is minimal difference between the two materials, aside from personal preference, cost, and design aesthetics. Cast-iron wood stoves are available in different colors with an enamel finish, while steel stoves are almost always black with a simple design. Cast-iron wood stoves cost about 20 percent to 30 percent more than steel stoves. Also available are cast-iron stoves with soapstone panels, which have the ability to release heat slowly for many hours after the fire has been extinguished.
Stove Brand
Individual brands of wood stoves will range in price, while the installation costs will remain the same. Below are some popular brands of wood stoves and their average prices:
- Jøtul wood stoves: Made in Norway since 1853, Jøtul offers energy-efficient, clean-burning wood stoves in various shapes, sizes, and styles. These stoves cost from $1,000 to $3,700.
- Unforgettable Fire wood stoves: Designed for cabins, tiny houses, yurts, and RV conversions, these small stoves are also great for supplemental heating. They range from $4,800 to $5,200.
- Lopi wood stoves: Available in steel or cast-iron, Lopi stoves feature a GreenStart igniter button for easy fire starting. They cost from $900 to $1,500.
- Blaze King wood stoves: Known for up to 40 hours of burn time and 30 percent less wood usage, these stoves run from $2,200 to $4,000.
- Woodstock Soapstone wood stoves: Focused on quality, these hybrid stoves with cast-iron and soapstone cost between $2,400 and $4,300.
- Vermont Castings wood stoves: Offering catalytic, noncatalytic, and FlexBurn options, these cast-iron stoves range from $1,200 to $3,600.
Brand Insight: While Jøtul and Vermont Castings offer a range of aesthetic options, don’t overlook smaller brands like Unforgettable Fire if you’re heating a compact space. I once helped a friend pick a Lopi for their mountain cabin—its push-button igniter made starting fires a breeze, even on chilly mornings.
Heating Capacity
A wood stove’s heating capacity controls how much space it can heat. The most budget-friendly wood stoves are small, noncatalytic stainless steel options, which are good at heating small areas. Catalytic cast-iron wood stoves that heat larger areas are typically the most expensive. Below are the average costs based on heating capacity:
| Heating Capacity | BTUs | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 square feet | 24,000 to 54,000 | $1,500 |
| 2,000 square feet | 28,000 to 94,000 | $2,300 |
| 3,000 square feet | 38,400 to 152,000 | $2,700 |
Chimney and Liner Installation
Chimneys have exact specifications to pass building codes and safety requirements. They must extend at least 3 feet above the roof, 2 feet above anything within 10 feet, and 3 feet above the roof’s peak. If a chimney extends more than 5 feet, it needs a roof bracket for stability. A chimney cap is required to prevent birds from entering. Interior chimneys are preferred to reduce creosote buildup. The cost to build a 15-foot chimney ranges from $900 to $3,000, while a chimney rebuild costs between $1,000 and $5,000. Chimney liners, which prevent soot and creosote buildup, cost from $625 to $7,000, with aluminum and clay being the most budget-friendly options.
Safety Note: A friend of mine skipped the chimney liner to save money, only to deal with creosote issues later. It’s worth investing in a liner upfront to avoid costly cleanups or fire risks.
Stove Pipe Installation
The stove pipe, or interior flue, connects the wood stove to the chimney. Double-wall pipes are recommended for rooms with vaulted ceilings requiring over 8 feet of pipe, as they provide better insulation. Stove pipe installation costs from $100 to $550, depending on design and length.
Installation Location
Installation costs vary by location. A chimney installed along an exterior wall costs $2,300 to $3,200. Running a chimney through a vaulted ceiling costs $1,800 to $2,100, while a second-floor or attic installation ranges from $2,400 to $3,300.
Labor
Labor to install a wood stove ranges from $250 to $800, depending on complexity. Some professionals include chimney construction, stove fitting, and hearth pads in the price, while others charge separately. Labor costs also vary by region, with urban areas typically pricier than rural ones.
Permits
Permits for wood stove installation cost $50 to $250. Professionals usually handle permits, but homeowners should confirm to avoid issues.
Additional Costs and Considerations
When budgeting for a wood stove, consider additional costs like freestanding stoves versus fireplace inserts, wood-burning versus pellet stoves, gas fireplace conversions, customizations, and available tax credits or rebates.
Freestanding Stove vs. Fireplace Insert
Freestanding wood stoves are typically more expensive than fireplace inserts, which cost $700 to $6,500. Inserts, made of insulated glass and metal, fit into existing fireplaces and are more efficient than open fireplaces. Below are average costs for fireplace inserts:
| Fireplace Insert | Average Cost | Average Labor Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | $800 to $4,500 | $2,180 | $3,080 to $6,680 |
| Gas | $800 to $4,500 | $1,500 | $2,300 to $6,000 |
| Pellet | $1,500 to $5,000 | $525 | $2,025 to $5,525 |
| Electric | $200 to $1,500 | $225 | $425 to $1,725 |
Wood-Burning vs. Pellet
Wood stoves cost $325 to $4,000, while pellet stoves range from $1,000 to $3,100. Pellet stoves are cheaper to install, as they can be direct-vented without a chimney, but their fuel costs about $20 more per month than wood.
Gas Fireplace Conversion
Converting a gas fireplace to a wood stove costs $100 to $300, with additional expenses for masonry work ($40 to $75 per hour), chimney construction ($900 to $3,000), or repairs ($177 to $933). This can improve heating efficiency by 60 to 80 percent.
Customizations
A hearth, required for safety, costs $200 to $500 and can be customized with materials like slate or granite. The hearth must extend 18 inches from the stove’s front and 8 inches on the sides.
Customization Idea: A stone hearth can add a rustic charm to your space. I’ve seen granite hearths elevate a room’s look while keeping costs reasonable.
Tax Credits and Rebates
A $300 Residential Energy Credit is available for installing a biomass (pellet) stove with at least 75 percent efficiency. Some states offer up to $5,000 for replacing old stoves with EPA-certified models.
Types of Wood Stoves
Catalytic
Catalytic wood stoves trap smoke and particles in a chamber, burning them at a lower temperature for 72 percent thermal efficiency. They cost $1,700 to $4,400 and are ideal for primary heating but require regular cleaning of the catalytic combustor ($100 to $400 to replace).
Noncatalytic
Noncatalytic stoves, costing $400 to $2,900, are easier to ignite but less efficient (63 percent) and better for supplemental heating. They use more fuel and emit more particulates.
Hybrid
Hybrid stoves combine a secondary combustion chamber with a catalytic combustor for a cleaner burn than noncatalytic models, balancing efficiency and cost.
Benefits of Wood Stove Installation
There are many reasons to choose a wood stove over a traditional fireplace. The ability to produce much more heat in an efficient manner is the typical benefit that many homeowners acknowledge, but there are a few others to consider as well.
High Heat Output
The radiant heat from a wood stove warms a room faster than a furnace or fireplace, thanks to its metal construction that absorbs and radiates heat effectively.
Energy Efficiency
Modern wood stoves are highly efficient, with only 10 percent heat loss compared to fireplaces. Strict emissions regulations ensure longer-lasting fires with less fuel.
Low Emissions
Wood stoves burn combustion gases internally, reducing particulate emissions compared to furnaces using gas, coal, or propane.
No Electricity Requirement
Unlike pellet or electric stoves, wood stoves operate without electricity, ensuring warmth during power outages.
Versatility
Wood stoves can be installed in various locations, like garages, as long as a stove pipe can be run, offering flexibility for homeowners.
Real-World Benefit: A neighbor installed a wood stove in their garage workshop, turning a chilly space into a cozy retreat for winter projects. It’s a game-changer for non-traditional spaces.
Wood Stove Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Installing a wood stove yourself risks fire hazards or carbon monoxide poisoning. Professionals ensure proper chimney and stove pipe installation, adhering to local codes. Some areas restrict wood stove use due to air quality regulations, so consult a contractor.
How to Save Money on Wood Stove Installation Cost
- Avoid used wood stoves: New, EPA-certified stoves are more efficient, saving fuel costs.
- Consider the size: A properly sized stove prevents inefficiency or creosote buildup.
- Hire an experienced pro: Proper installation ensures better performance and safety.
- Shop around: Get at least three estimates to find the best deal.
- Use the right type of wood: Dry wood burns better, reducing fuel waste.
Questions to Ask About Wood Stove Installation
Asking the right questions can save money and ensure a smooth installation. Consider these:
- What experience do you have installing wood stoves?
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Can you provide examples of prior installations?
- Do you offer free estimates?
- What are the local building codes for wood stoves?
- Will you handle permits?
- How long will installation take?
- What warranties do you provide?
FAQs
Q: What is a wood stove catalytic converter?
A catalytic converter traps particulates and burns them at a lower temperature, boosting efficiency and reducing emissions.
Q: Is it legal to use a wood stove as a primary heat source?
Yes, if permitted locally and the stove meets overnight heating needs.
Q: Can I install a wood stove myself?
No, professional installation is recommended to avoid fire or carbon monoxide risks.
Q: How do I improve wood stove efficiency?
Keep the chimney clean, use dry wood, and ensure proper chimney size and installation location.
Q: What type of chimney is needed?
A Class A chimney pipe is required to vent high-temperature exhaust safely.
Q: How long does installation take?
Typically less than a day, depending on stove type and crew size.
Final Thought: Choosing a wood stove involves balancing cost, efficiency, and aesthetics. I’ve seen friends transform their homes with a well-placed stove, but safety and proper sizing are key. Consult a pro to get it right the first time.