Is A Secondhand Fireplace A Great Idea Or A Disaster Waiting To Happen?

Maybe your existing fireplace has deteriorated, or you don't like its aesthetic. Perhaps you've moved into a home with a closed spot where a fireplace once was, and you'd like to open it up and put a fireplace back in. Or you want to switch from one kind of fireplace to another, such as wood-burning to gas or electric. 

Fireplaces are expensive and continue to increase in price with inflation. If you do your due diligence, buying a secondhand fireplace could be an amazing deal, but you need to consider numerous variables and ask a lot of questions. If your home has never had one, know the things to keep in mind before adding a fireplace, such as whether you'll need electrical wiring or a gas line installed. 

If you decide to proceed, you'll want to factor in installation costs, service and replacement parts, and the seller's history with the fireplace. A secondhand fireplace's effect on homeowner insurance rates and compliance with any local building codes and environmental regulations can also play into your decision. Even though you're not buying new, a reputable manufacturer is important because it indicates a durable product.

Among the questions to ask the seller before buying is why they are selling the fireplace, how much use it's had, and whether it has ever needed repairs. You'll also want to know how well the sellers maintained it and whether it's still under warranty. Inspect the fireplace's physical appearance, and reject it if you see too much deterioration.

Research installation before you buy. You could find it costs as much as the fireplace or even more if you need a chimney pipe installed. Ensure you can find an installer willing to take on the risk to install a secondhand unit, especially if it is older. If your home has never had a fireplace, consider the wisdom of opening up a wall for a used fireplace that may not have a lot of life left in it. Research the most reputable brands to see if your prospective purchase is among them. Find out if the secondhand fireplace you're considering is still being manufactured, if parts are available, and if you have someone competent and willing to service it. 

Bottom line: Yes, you can avoid disaster and get a sweet deal on a secondhand fireplace once you are armed with the right information. After you've installed your secondhand fireplace, consider fireplace design and decor ideas to help you stay warm all winter long.