Many homeowners find themselves debating whether or not to fix an old, outdated fireplace in their home. Fireplaces can be a charming and cozy focal point in a living space, but repairing and updating an aging fireplace can also be quite expensive. There are a few key factors to consider when determining if fixing an old fireplace is worth the investment.
Page Contents
- 0.1 Does the fireplace still function properly?
- 0.2 What’s your primary goal in using the fireplace?
- 0.3 What repairs does the fireplace need?
- 0.4 What’s the current condition?
- 0.5 When was the fireplace last serviced?
- 0.6 Are building code updates required?
- 1 Pros of Fixing Up an Old Fireplace
- 2 Cons of Fixing an Old Fireplace
- 3 Factors to Consider in Your Decision
- 4 Conclusion
Does the fireplace still function properly?
The first question to ask is whether the fireplace still serves its primary purpose in providing heat and ambiance. As fireplaces age, the chimney and flue can accumulate residue and damage that prevents proper ventilation and airflow. Cracks in the firebox or failing structural components can also lead to inefficient combustion and smoke escaping into the living space. Here are a few signs your fireplace may not be functioning properly:
- Smoke or odors entering the room when lit
- Weak draft that allows smoke to billow out
- Trouble igniting or sustaining a fire
- Excess soot or creosote buildup in the chimney
- Crumbling bricks, broken damper, or rusted metal components
If your fireplace exhibits any of these issues, repairs would be needed for it to work correctly. The extent of repairs needed directly impacts whether fixing it up is worthwhile.
What’s your primary goal in using the fireplace?
Before investing in fireplace repairs, think about how you want to use it. Is your main priority decor and ambiance, an auxiliary heat source, or cooking over an open flame? Your intended use should guide whether updating the fireplace makes sense.
If you mainly want a decorative focal point, cosmetic changes like paint, tile, or a new mantel to refresh the style may suffice. For frequent fires, more extensive repairs to the interior firebox, flue, and chimney would provide functional use. And for cooking, surface area and ventilation matter most. Be realistic about how you want to use the space.
What repairs does the fireplace need?
The cost to update or refurbish a fireplace largely depends on the repairs and upgrades needed. Here are some common fireplace fixes and their average price ranges:
| Repair Type | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| Chimney crown repair | $200 – $500 |
| Chimney repointing/rebuild | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| Flue repair | $350 – $650 |
| Damper replacement | $450 – $950 |
| Gas line install/repair | $500 – $1,200 |
| Firebox rebuilding | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Screen/doors | $600 – $1,500 |
| Mantel installation | $500 – $2,500 |
Major rebuilds or structural repairs tally up in the thousands. Cosmetic updates typically cost less. Get an inspection and itemized quote to understand your budget.
What’s the current condition?
Carefully look over the current physical state of your fireplace. Check for:
- Loose or missing bricks in the firebox or chimney
- Rust, holes, or damage to the metal damper
- Soot stains or creosote that needs cleaning
- A securely attached and sealed chimney cap
- Cracks or damage to the chimney crown
- Issues with the hearth or flooring in front
Fireplaces in disrepair require more work and investment to restore. Weigh repairs needed against the value restoring it adds to your home.
When was the fireplace last serviced?
Like any household system, fireplaces need periodic maintenance to operate safely and effectively. If you’re unsure of the last time it received servicing, repairs are likely overdue. Schedule chimney inspection and cleaning as a starting point before considering larger renovations. Routine fireplace maintenance every few years avoids more expensive future repairs.
Are building code updates required?
Older fireplaces often fail to meet current building safety codes. Depending on where you live, updates may be necessary for it to pass inspection. Common required fireplace updates include:
- Adding glass doors or screens
- Installing a chimney cap
- Updating to code-compliant chimney materials
- Enlarging hearth size
- Improving ventilation
Review your local and state fireplace codes to assess potential costs of mandatory changes.
Pros of Fixing Up an Old Fireplace
Rehabilitating an aging or damaged fireplace has several potential perks that make repairs worthwhile for many homeowners.
Adds visual interest
An updated fireplace serves as an elegant focal point and conversation starter in living areas and dens. Refinishing the brick or stonework and modernizing the mantel transforms the look of the whole room. Warming up the appearance also boosts a home’s appraised value.
Increases home comfort
On chilly evenings, nothing beats gathering in front of a cozy, crackling fire. Repairing your existing fireplace saves the cost of adding a new one. Proper repairs also increase energy efficiency, circulating heat into the home.
Reduces safety risks
Older fireplaces pose major fire and smoke risks if not updated to current safety building codes. By modernizing dated components like chimney dampers and caps, firebox linings, and smoke chambers, repairs drastically reduce the chance of household hazards.
Saves architectural history
Vintage fireplace styles reflect the original architecture and era of the home itself. Preserving these unique historic design elements maintains the home’s character and craftsmanship.
Provides outdoor ambiance
Outdoor fireplaces let homeowners extend entertaining and relaxation into alfresco living areas. Upgrading backyards with an outdoor fireplace feature creates a luxurious oasis for evening enjoyment.
Allows more design options
Replacing a wood-burning fireplace with a gas model opens up more design choices. Switching to gas logs or a ventless fireplace means eliminating the need for venting infrastructure. Gas models also provide climate control and simplify start up.
Cons of Fixing an Old Fireplace
On the other hand, there are also some potential downsides to consider for fireplace repairs.
It’s costly
As shown in the repair cost table above, rehabilitating a fireplace can range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs up to $10,000 or more for a complete remodel. Complex structural and ventilation issues run up the price tag quickly.
It’s time consuming
Tackling a major fireplace overhaul takes time, often weeks to complete more extensive upgrades. The living space may be unusable or unsafe for a period during the construction dust and debris.
The payoff is limited
If you don’t use the fireplace often, investing thousands into repairs may not feel justified. Focus first on essential home upgrades that get more daily use and add greater value.
Newer models are more efficient
Older fireplaces inevitably allow more heated air to escape up the chimney. By comparison, newer fireplace designs employ tighter seals, double or triple pane doors, and recirculating systems to retain warmth better.
Maintenance is still required
While repairs may fix current issues, you’ll still need periodic upkeep like chimney sweeping and inspection in the coming years. Repairs don’t eliminate all future maintenance needs.
Building code changes could be triggered
In some cases, the permitting process for repairs triggers modern building upgrades or additions that are required by current code. This tacks on unexpected costs.
It may not match your decor
Even with cosmetic upgrades, the style of an old fireplace may feel dated or incongruous with your home’s current design scheme. In that case, replacement may suit your needs better than restoration.
Factors to Consider in Your Decision
When weighing the pros and cons, also take the following into account as you decide whether refurbishing your aged fireplace is the right solution:
- How often will the fireplace be used?
- What’s your primary function – heat or ambiance?
- Do you prefer the look and style of the existing fireplace?
- How disruptive and invasive will repairs be?
- How do repair costs compare to a full replacement?
- Are you planning further living space renovations?
- How important is energy efficiency to you?
- How soon do you want the project completed?
- What’s the expected lifespan of an upgraded fireplace?
- Are you willing and able to strictly follow safety precautions and maintenance?
Your contractor can also help you think through considerations specific to your fireplace and how you hope to enjoy it for years to come.
Conclusion
Reviving an old fireplace to its former glory requires weighing costs, benefits, time requirements, and safety considerations. For fireplaces in fairly sound structural shape that hold sentimental value, restoring it as part of a larger living space remodeling project can be worthwhile. Complete rebuilds for deteriorated fireplaces may be better suited to replacement. Consult with your local fireplace professional to conduct an inspection and get tailored recommendations for your specific needs and budget. With some advance planning and smart prioritization, refreshing your aging fireplace can result in a cozy, eye-catching hub that you and your family enjoy for decades.