Maybe your old fireplace is looking a bit rough, or you just want a different style. Or perhaps you moved in and the fireplace spot has been blocked off, and you’d love to open it up and add a new one. Or maybe you want to switch the fuel type – from wood to gas or electric. Fireplaces aren’t cheap, and the prices just keep going up. If you do your homework, snagging a used fireplace could be a real steal. But there’s a lot to consider and questions to ask. And if your home has never had one, you’ll need to think about adding electrical wiring or a gas line. If you decide to go for it, make sure to factor in the costs of installation, service, and replacement parts. You’ll also want to look into how a secondhand fireplace could affect your home insurance and whether it meets local building codes. Even though it’s not brand new, it’s important the manufacturer has a good reputation so you know it’s built to last.
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Do your homework before buying and secondhand fireplace
Ykvision/Getty Images You’ll want to know why the current owners are selling, how much use the fireplace has had, and if it’s ever needed repairs. Find out how well they maintained it and if it’s still under warranty. Take a close look at the physical condition, and don’t buy it if you see a lot of wear and tear.
Research the installation process before you commit. It could end up costing as much as the fireplace itself, or even more, if you need a new chimney pipe. Make sure you can find someone willing to install a used fireplace, especially an older one. And if your home has never had a fireplace, think hard about whether opening up a wall for a secondhand one that may not have much life left is a good idea. Look into the most reputable brands to see if your potential purchase is one of them. Find out if the secondhand fireplace is still being made, if parts are available, and if you can get someone to service it.
The bottom line is: Yes, you can absolutely score a great deal on a used fireplace if you do your homework. Just make sure you’re armed with all the right information first. And after you’ve got it installed, consider getting it maintained regularly.
