How Much Does Wood-Burning Stove Installation Cost? [2025 Data]

Wood-Burning Stove Installation Cost Factors

The cost of installing a freestanding wood stove depends on several factors, including its type, material, and size. Here are some things to consider when budgeting for a new wood-burning stove.

Types 

There are two main types of wood-burning stoves—catalytic and non-catalytic—and the type you choose will impact your overall project cost. Catalytic wood stoves are more efficient than their non-catalytic counterparts, which also makes them more expensive. You can also choose a hybrid wood stove, which combines catalytic and non-catalytic technologies. Hybrid models offer elements of both worlds: heating efficiency with the simplicity and aesthetic appeal of a traditional wood stove.

Material

The stove’s material also influences its cost. Wood-burning stoves are made from cast iron or steel, with cast iron being the pricier option.

Heating Capacity and Size

A wood stove’s heating capacity indicates how much space it can heat. As you shop for stoves, manufacturers may describe each product’s heating capacity in square footage and British Thermal Units (BTUs). They’ll also list the maximum log size in the firebox.

As you may have expected, stoves with higher heating capacities and larger maximum log sizes come with heftier price tags. 

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a good rule of thumb is that a wood-burning stove rated at 42,000 BTUs can heat 1,300 square feet, while a stove with a 60,000-BTU output can heat a 2,000-square-foot space. However, the BTUs you need depend on your climate, floor plan, and amount of insulation. Colder temperatures, as well as spaces without open layouts, need higher BTUs. Heating multiple rooms or floors requires a large, high-efficiency wood stove.

Labor and Prep Work

On average, labor costs for a wood stove installation project range from $500 to $3,000, but they can vary significantly depending on the required work. 

For example, let’s say you’re installing a wood stove from scratch. Not only will your contractor have to set up the stove itself, but they may also need to install other necessary features, including a ventilation system, non-combustible wall coverings, and a hearth pad. All of this extra work will increase your labor costs. 

But if your project is more straightforward (for example, replacing an existing wood-burning stove or already having a working ventilation system), you’ll pay less in labor.

Permits

Installing a wood stove often requires permits. Permitting costs vary by location but average $50 to $250. Your contractor should pull these permits on your behalf, but it doesn’t hurt to double-check with them.

Wood-Burning Stove Ongoing Costs

In addition to the upfront costs of wood stove installation, you should consider ongoing expenses, including operating costs and maintenance.

Operating Costs

As the name suggests, a wood-burning stove runs on wood, so account for this expense if you plan to install one. The cord sells logs, and a full cord of wood costs $120 to $900, depending on your location and the type of wood. You’ll need at least two cords if you plan to use your stove as your primary heat source during the winter.

Maintenance

You should empty the ashes, clean the glass, and dust the exterior of your wood stove regularly. These are easy tasks that can be completed in under an hour.

You should also schedule an annual chimney inspection to ensure your chimney is clean, undamaged, and debris-free. The average inspection costs $450, but it can range from $100 to $5,000, depending on the condition of your chimney and the work required.

Repairs

When performing routine maintenance on your wood stove, it’s a good idea to inspect its components simultaneously, including the gasket, baffle, and bricks. If anything is damaged or malfunctioning, you may need to call a professional to repair or replace the broken parts. 

Here’s how much you can expect to pay for common wood-burning stove repairs: 

Cost of Common Wood-Burning Stove Installation Add-Ons

While you’re in the process of installing a wood-burning stove, you might decide to tackle some related projects at the same time. Here are some common add-ons and their costs:

• Chimney repair costs: $160–$750

• Fireplace removal costs: $4,000–$10,000

• Fireplace remodeling costs: $400–$2,000

• Flooring installation costs: $1,500–$4,900

How to Save Money on Wood Stove Installation

Installing a wood-burning stove can get pricey, but these tips may help you cut costs: 

• Install during off-peak season: Fall and winter are the busiest seasons for wood stove professionals. You might score a discount if you can wait until spring or summer to install a new stove.

• Compare prices: Get bids from at least three wood stove installers in your area. This will allow you to compare contractors on price and weigh their experience, customer service, and communication.

• Research tax incentives: By installing or switching to a high-efficiency wood stove, you may be eligible for tax credits or rebates. These programs are available from the federal and many state governments, which you can learn more about on the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Star website. Pellet stove installations may qualify, as well.

DIY Wood Stove Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

Labor makes up a significant chunk of the cost of installing a wood stove, so if you’re on a tight budget, it may be tempting to tackle the installation yourself. However, this isn’t a DIY-friendly job, so don’t try it.

Incorrect wood stove installation can increase the risk of fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, and damage to your stove or home. Hiring a local wood stove company ensures your stove is safe and compliant with local laws and building codes.