How Much Does Firebox Repair or Replacement Cost? [2025 Data]
Firebox repair or replacement costs $455 on average, but it can cost between $160 and $750, depending on the project's scope and details.
Firebox replacement costs between $160 and $750, for an average cost of $455, depending on your firebox's age, style, and the extent of the issue. If your local chimney inspector spots a problem with your firebox—the important structure inside your fireplace that houses fire—here’s what you can expect to pay based on exactly what’s wrong.
What Is a Firebox?
First off, what is a firebox? Within the anatomy of your fireplace, the firebox is the brick-and-mortar area that comes in direct contact with the flame. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), there are two main types of fireboxes: masonry and prefabricated.
Masonry fireboxes are hand-laid with firebrick and fire-resistant mortar. Prefabricated fireboxes include a metal panel that’s built to fit your chimney, which is also typically lined with metal.
How Much Do Fireboxes Cost to Install by Fireplace Type?
When it comes to estimating the cost of installing a new firebox, the price will differ based on the type of fireplace. Not only do the different materials affect the price, but experts will also charge you based on the complexity of your fireplace system.
Here are the main types of fireplaces and their average firebox installation costs:
| Type | Average Installation Cost |
|---|---|
| Masonry fireplace firebox | $1,300 |
| Wood-burning stove firebox | $1,700 |
| Gas fireplace firebox | $2,000 |
| Prefabricated fireplace (including full system) | $2,500 |
What Factors Influence the Cost to Repair or Replace a Firebox?
Older and more complex fireplace designs will cost more to fix. Smaller, prefabricated fireplace will be less expensive. Some of the the major cost factors include the following:
Whether you have a prefabricated or masonry fireplace
The firebox size
The firebox age and the last time it was updated
The extent of the repair and whether you need a full replacement
Where you live
Whether the original prefabricated panels or bricks are still available
What Kind of Firebox Repairs Can I Get on My Budget?
If your firebox needs to be fixed, how do you prepare your budget for the necessary work? Here are some common price ranges to expect for firebox repair and new installations.
| Budget | Repairs You Can Afford |
|---|---|
| $100–$500 | Chimney inspection, small repairs like replacing bricks |
| $500–$1,000 | Significant mortar tuckpointing, full prefab panel installation |
| $1,000–$2,000 | New firebox and cover |
| $2,000+ | All the above plus junk hauling and repairing any other chimney damage |
How Long Does a Firebox Last?
The lifespan of a firebox can depend on several factors, including the type of material, how well it's maintained, and how often you use it. Here are some guidelines for different kinds of fireboxes.
Masonry Firebox
A masonry firebox, made of bricks or refractory concrete, can last for several decades if properly constructed and maintained. With regular inspections and occasional repairs, it can remain in good condition for 20 to 50 years or even longer.
Metal Firebox
Metal fireboxes, often found in prefabricated or wood-burning stoves, have a shorter lifespan than masonry fireboxes. Depending on the quality of materials and usage, they may last anywhere from 10 to 20 years.
Gas Fireplace Firebox
Gas fireplaces typically have fireboxes made of materials like refractory panels or steel. The lifespan of these fireboxes can vary, but with proper maintenance and care, they can last 15 to 25 years or more.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Firebox by Repair Type?
| Firebox Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Replace chimney liner | $2,500 |
| Replace mantel | $500–$1200 |
| Gas line connection | $45 per hour |
| Insulation and sealing | $250 |
| Cracks | $200–$500 |
Because the firebox connects to the rest of the fireplace, fixing it often requires replacing or repairing other parts of your fireplace, including the following.
Ventilation and Draft Adjustment
It might be necessary to adjust the damper, flue, or replace the chimney liner at around $2,500 to ensure proper airflow and efficient combustion.
Surrounding Materials
You may need to replace the hearth or mantel, which costs between $500 and $1,200.
Gas Line and Connections
If you're replacing a gas firebox, a pro must disconnect and reconnect the gas line and ensure all connections are secure and leak-free, starting at around $45 per hour.
Insulation and Sealing
Air gaps or openings around the firebox will need sealing to prevent heat loss and smoke leakage, starting at $250.
Cracks
If you notice any signs of wear and tear on your firebox, it’s time to call in a qualified professional to solve the issue. Small cracks may cost $200 to $500 to repair, but large cracks can cost much more.
Cost of Common Masonry Firebox Repairs
Understanding the potential expenses and considerations involved in these repairs can help you make informed decisions to maintain the warmth and charm of your hearth.
| Repair Type | Average Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Tuckpointing mortar | $5–$25 |
| Brick replacement | $34–$40 |
Tuckpointing Mortar
Tuckpointing costs $5 to $25 per square foot. This is the process of grinding away cracked or crumbling mortar joints between bricks and replacing it with new mortar. Tuckpointing helps prevent heat transfer and moisture infiltration while eliminating damage that could lead to a long-term chimney collapse, which is far more expensive to repair.
Brick Replacement
If just a few individual bricks in a firebox are compromised, brick replacement can be done for $34 to $40 per square foot. A mason or chimney sweep uses an angle grinder to cut out the damaged bricks and replace them with a crack-resistant firebrick. The process creates a lot of hazardous dust, which requires additional labor to contain and remove properly.
Cost of Common Prefabricated Firebox Repairs
For homeowners aiming to preserve their fireplace's functionality and safety, it's crucial to grasp the possible expenses linked to typical repairs for prefabricated fireboxes.
| Repair Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Prefabricated panel replacement | $360–$750 |
| Firebox replacement | $1,500–$2,500 |
Prefabricated Panel Replacement
Prefabricated panel replacement costs $360 to $750. The panels in a prefabricated firebox are integral to its structure. The more fire and heat they're exposed to, the more they wear and become susceptible to damage, so you must replace them regularly.
Firebox Replacement
Firebox replacement costs $1,500 to $2,500, depending on the type of firebox. For example, metal fireboxes are relatively inexpensive compared to stone fireboxes, which require additional labor and materials.
Additional Firebox Replacement Cost Factors
Here’s how your bill will break down, plus a few ongoing expenses.
Construction permits cost $150 to $2,000 on average.
Fully removing your old fireplace and chimney costs between $500 and $2,500 on average.
Junk hauling professionals cost $60 to $700 on average.
Hiring a local chimney sweep to clean your fireplace costs $250 on average.
Chimney inspections cost $450 on average.
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of fuel to run your fireplace as well as insurance costs.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Inspecting and repairing a chimney requires highly specialized training. Organizations like the National Fireplace Institute and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offer certifications for qualified professionals.
In other words, repairing a firebox is not a DIY job. Find a professional chimney repair pro near you who can recommend the best materials and a team of contractors for the job.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to costquotes@angi.com. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Handbuilt masonry fireplaces are likely what comes to mind when we think about curling up by the fire at the end of the day. But bricks in the firebox and chimney tend to be heavy, which is not ideal for homes with weak or damaged foundations.
Prefabricated fireboxes come with a full flue and chimney system, significantly reducing the price and installation time. However, if you need to replace the panels down the line, you are locked into the same model or something very similar.
Cracks in the chimney can be very serious, depending on their location and size. Even small cracks can become serious over time if left unrepaired. Cracks allow heat and moisture to deteriorate your chimney and harmful carbon monoxide gas to seep into your home. Small cracks can often be caulked, while large cracked sections may require full replacement.
Deciding when to replace your fireplace depends on its condition and your preferences. Replacements may be necessary if your fireplace shows extensive damage, safety issues, or inefficiency. Signs include deteriorating masonry, cracked firebox panels, or a faulty chimney. Aesthetic reasons, such as outdated design, can also drive replacement. Wanting something more sustainable and energy-efficient is another good reason to replace your old fireplace.
Regular fireplace servicing is vital for safety and efficiency. You must inspect and clean wood-burning fireplaces annually to remove creosote buildup and address potential issues. Gas fireplaces benefit from annual inspections to ensure proper functioning and safety. More frequent servicing may be necessary if you use your fireplace extensively or live in an area with harsh winters. Always consult a local professional to establish a suitable servicing schedule for your fireplace.
