Fireplaces are a symbol of cosy and traditional homes in the UK.
Many people love the idea of gathering around them on cold nights.
So, do fireplaces add value to houses?
Let’s find out.
Fireplaces in the UK
Like most civilisations, fires were the centrepiece for many homes in early Britain.
Before the Norman Conquest (1066 – 1071 AD), they were often open fires in the centre of rooms beneath a chimney. These were known as hearths, used for cooking, tool-making, keeping warm, and more.
The Normans brought with them early versions of modern fireplaces. Built into walls with chimneys, they improved ventilation and space management.
Over the centuries, new designs and technical features emerged. These included andirons (firedogs) and grates.
In the 1742, Benjamin Franklin invented the Franklin Stove. It increased heat and reduced smoke from fireplaces. They made their way back to Britain in the following decades.
Central heating first entered residential properties in the 1830s in London. But it wasn’t until a century and a half later, in the 1970s, that they overtook fireplaces in Britain.
And in the 1990s, electric fireplaces become popular.
Health issues of fireplaces
Modern medical findings show that fireplaces are not good for health.
This knowledge appears to be widely unknown though. But healthier alternatives, such as wood burners (see below), are popular.
Fireplaces in the UK today
In the United Kingdom, approximately 11.2% of properties have a fireplace.
Some regions perform above average in this category, such as the south-west, at 13.7%. Meanwhile, London has fewer fireplaces than average, at 10.4%.
You’re more likely to find fireplaces in period properties. Meanwhile, in new build houses, they are rare. Other modern properties with a fireplace tend to be electric.
Fireplaces are most common in the living area of your house. Your property will almost certainly have a chimney if that’s the case, unless it’s electric.
Fireplaces and added house value
Yes, a fireplace adds value to a house.
This is a well-liked feature that lots of buyers feel positively about. Some experts suggest that your house value will increase by up to 5% when it’s got a fireplace.
Some buyers offer more on a house with a fireplace because of its aesthetic beauty. Others like its functionality and homely associations.
Different types of fireplaces and their impact on house value
If a fireplace is already in your home, you’ll need to figure out which type of fireplace it is.
Some types are considered more valuable than others. But different buyers may have different preferences
Wood-burning
You’ll find split opinions about this type of fireplace. It’s the most ‘traditional’ type, yet requires more maintenance.
It’s also a less eco-friendly approach, which some home buyers are conscious about.
Buyers who appreciates this traditional aesthetic might make 5% higher offers. But more eco-conscious buyers may even reduce their offer, if they plan to get rid of it.
Gas
Gas fireplaces are usually the most popular. This is because they are easy to use and highly convenient.
You could expect a 5% increase in house value, approximately, with this type of fireplace.
Electric
This is undoubtedly the most ‘modern’ type of fireplace. It’s safe and eco-friendly and also very easy to use. Your costs are likely to be lower month-on-month, compared to other types.
If the aesthetic of your electric fireplace is appealing, then it can increase house value by up to 5%.
But you’ll still find buyers who prefer the appearance of a traditional fireplace. They may feel that the electric option is less authentic.
How much does a fireplace cost to install?
When an existing fireplace is in your house, it’ll be far less expensive. This is because the chimney infrastructure already exists.
You can expect to pay around £1,000 for installing a fireplace in this situation.
If there has never been a fireplace in your house before, it will cost much more. A chimney needs to be installed. Around £3,000 is a common price in this situation.
An electric fireplace is the least expensive in this scenario. Around £1,000 is standard, even if you’ve never had a fireplace before.
Wood-burning fireplaces are the most expensive, followed by gas fireplaces. And electric fireplaces are the least expensive.
How much does a fireplace cost to maintain?
It depends largely on the type of fireplace.
For example, electric fireplaces involve almost no maintenance. Meanwhile, wood-burning fireplaces need a lot of maintenance.
For a wood-burning fireplace, a chimney sweep is important. This can cost around £80 per visit.
Meanwhile, for a gas fireplace, it could cost the same amount for a full service.
Little and often is the best approach with a traditional fireplace. Some of the tasks you could do yourself, if you want to save money. This includes:
- Ash removal
- Cleaning
- Adding more wood.
For inspections on your fireplace, you should pay an expert. You may not be qualified and experienced to spot potential faults yourself. Prices will go upwards of £100 most of the time.
Fireplaces impact on EPC ratings
Yes. If a traditional fireplace is installed, this often reduces your EPC rating. Especially if it hasn’t been maintained well.
There may be heat loss, poor insulation, and an impact on your heating system.
Keep in mind that your EPC rating is related to your property value, too. So, this is a detail worth considering.
Electric fireplaces have a minimal impact on your EPC rating. This is because they don’t have some of the drawbacks of a ‘traditional’ fireplace listed above.
Insurance for a fireplaces
This will usually be covered by your home insurance.
Your monthly payment will be slightly higher, but not by a lot. And you don’t usually need to take out any other type of insurance.
