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myCost of a Fake Chimney Breast
At a Glance
- The average cost of a fake chimney breast is £2,000
- Depending on the complexity of the job, it usually takes 1 to 3 days
- A pricing breakdown for different fake chimney breast types and scopes of work
- The key cost factors that affect the price of a fake chimney breast
- How to find and hire a qualified builder with MyJobQuote
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£2,000
Table of Contents
How Much is a Fake Chimney Breast?
The average cost to build a fake chimney breast is £2,000, with prices ranging from £500 to £3,000, depending on the size, materials, and installation complexity.
A fake chimney breast can serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, making it a versatile choice for homes. You might decide to install a fake chimney breast to provide a unique focal point in a room, or you might decide to use it to house entertainment systems or to create the appearance of a traditional fireplace.
Plasterboard, MDF and solid wood are commonly used for fake chimney breasts, largely due to their durability, longevity and ease of installation. The cost of adding a fake chimney breast can vary widely based on factors such as the dimensions, design complexity and any additional features like shelving, TV recesses or integrated lighting.
This is also the case with complex installations and fake chimney breasts with intricate designs, both of which require more labour and skill. The cost of having someone fit a faux chimney breast can vary slightly depending on where you are in the UK. You’re likely to pay more in busy, urban areas such as London, where the cost of labour and materials tend to be slightly higher.
Fake Chimney Breast Prices
Below we take a look at the various costs involved in having a fake chimney breast installed.
| Work Required | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Fake Chimney Breast Installation | £500 – £3,000 |
| Materials (per m2) | £10 – £50 |
| Labour (per day) | £150 – £250 |
| Waste Disposal | £100 – £300 |
| Faux Mantel | £400 – £600 |
| Modular Shelving | £300 – £1,000 |
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Labour Costs and Timescales
You can expect to pay around £150 to £250 per day in labour costs for constructing a fake chimney breast. This cost will vary depending on where you’re located, project complexity and contractor experience.
Basic, straightforward faux chimney breast installations usually take a day to complete, and labour costs typically range from £150 to £250. More complex builds - such as those with added features, complex designs or those that are larger than average - may take up to three days, increasing the cost of labour to between £450 and £750.
Supply Costs
The materials for a fake chimney breast can vary depending on the quality and desired look required. For a basic design, plasterboard and wooden framing are often used as a budget-friendly option. Alternatively, MDF is often used as a simple yet effective material.
For a more realistic finish, brick slips offer an authentic brick finish, albeit at a higher cost. Meanwhile, using stone veneers are generally a more affordable option, although both options provide a durable and premium look compared to using cheaper materials.
| Material | Estimated Supply Cost |
|---|---|
| Plasterboard | Approx £10 per sheet |
| MDF Boards | £10 – £20 each |
| Brick Slips | £25 – £50 per m² |
| Stone Veneers | £40 – £100 per m² |
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Cost Factors for a Fake Chimney Breast
Several factors affect the overall cost of a fake chimney breast. The main ones to consider are:
- Size — Larger designs require more materials and labour, which increases the overall cost. If you're working to a tight budget, keeping the dimensions modest is one of the most effective ways to reduce spend.
- Design complexity — Intricate details such as custom shelving, decorative mouldings, or TV recesses require more skill, time, and materials, all of which add to the price.
- Material choice — MDF and plasterboard are the most budget-friendly options, while brick slips, stone veneers, and solid wood are more durable but come at a higher cost.
- Electrical work — Adding lighting, cable management, or sockets for a TV or sound system requires a qualified electrician and will increase both labour and material costs.
- Additional features — Fireplace inserts, gas appliances, and ventilation requirements all add complexity to the installation and can significantly increase the final cost.
Types of Fake Chimney Breasts
There are three main types of fake chimney breasts, each of which serves a slightly different purpose.
- Aesthetic Fake Chimney Breasts - These are often made of decorative plasterwork or brick facades, designed solely for visual appeal, providing the look and feel of a traditional chimney breast without the functional elements.
- Fireplace Chimney Breasts - Fake chimney breasts can also be built to house electric or gas fireplaces, adding a warm, realistic ambience without the need for a full, functioning chimney.
- Media-Focused Chimney Breasts - Blending traditional design with modern function, incorporating built-in recesses for TVs, faux mantels, shelving or feature walls, without the need or cost of a full installation.
Feature Walls
A feature wall offers a focal point similar to that of a faux chimney breast without depth. Using wallpaper, wood panelling or exposed brick, you can create a wall that has a similar look as a chimney breast, but without the cost.
Feature walls are generally the least expensive option, with costs ranging from £50 to £400.
Faux Mantels
Faux mantels are standalone mantels attached directly to the wall, mimicking the appearance of a fireplace surround. These are often paired with decor like mirrors, candles or artwork to create a focal point in a room.
Faux mantels are simple to install and versatile in style, and they can be made from wood, plaster or stone. They are relatively affordable, with the average cost coming in at around £400 to £600.
Modular Shelving Units
Modular shelving is a versatile option that provides storage and functionality, as well as a decorative focal point. Modular shelving units are customisable in height, width and depth, and they can replicate the shape of a chimney breast.
The average cost of modular shelving units ranges from £300 to £1,000, depending on materials and size.
Hiring Contractors Checklist
- Research Various Contractors - It’s important to choose a contractor with experience in building a fake chimney, so be sure to do your research. You can also ask friends, family, and neighbours for recommendations or look at local forums.
- Check Qualifications - Building a fake chimney can be complicated, so you need to ensure you’re working with a contractor that’s qualified, licensed and has the right certifications. Make sure they have experience that’s relevant to your project.
- Look at Similar Past Work - It’s always a good idea to see a portfolio of similar projects, as this gives you peace of mind that a contractor can provide exactly what you’re looking for. Ask for references from previous clients to learn about their experience.
- Get Quotes from Multiple Contractors - You should get quotes from at least three tradespeople, which you can then compare with one another. Each quote should specify materials, the cost of labour and any additional fees.
- Clarify Materials and Labour Included - You need to ensure that each quote clearly states which materials and finishes are included in the price to avoid any unexpected costs. Confirm who will be responsible for purchasing, delivering and handling the materials and the cost of doing so.
- Discuss Timeline and Project Milestones - It’s a good idea to set a realistic timeline and confirm the estimated start and completion dates with your chosen contractor to ensure that you’re both on the same page. Agree on project milestones, which will give you an insight into whether the project is on track.
- Review the Contract - Before you jump into building a fake chimney, review the contract. Make sure that the contract includes the scope of work, payment terms, start and finish dates, and any warranties. If there are any problems along the way, you’ll have the contract to refer back to.
- Arrange for a Final Inspection - Before signing everything off and making the final payment, do a thorough inspection to make sure that all of the work has been completed to your satisfaction and you’re happy with the end result. Let the contractor know if any repairs or touch-ups are needed before the project is marked as complete.
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Removing a Fake Chimney Breast
The cost to remove a fake chimney breast varies from £500 to £3,000, with most tradespeople charging around £2,000 to complete the job. This includes removing the faux chimney breast, repairing the space, replacing it with slate or tile, and disposal of waste materials.
The cost of removing a fake chimney breast varies depending on the size of the chimney breast, the complexity of the job, the amount of work required and the finishing option chosen. In most cases, it's less expensive than removing a real chimney, as there is less structural work involved.
The process of removing a fake chimney breast starts with dismantling the faux chimney breast and disposing of any debris, which tends to require hiring a skip or waste removal services. Repairs are then usually needed to restore walls, floors and ceilings to their original condition, which can include plastering and painting.
Fake Chimney Stack Cost
A fake chimney stack is a decorative exterior structure fitted to a roofline, typically used to restore the appearance of a property after a chimney has been removed or where no chimney ever existed. These are often made from glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) or fibreglass, making them lightweight and low maintenance.
Prefabricated chimney stacks start at around £515, though the cost will increase depending on size, finish, and whether a twin-wall flue connection is required for a working stove. Professional fitting costs will also apply on top of the unit price.
If you're looking to restore the exterior appearance of your home after a chimney removal, a prefabricated GRP stack can be a cost-effective alternative to full masonry reconstruction.
How much does it cost to remove a fake chimney stack?
"Guessing that its a simple brick stack for up to two 9" flues, and access isn't any particular problem I think this job would cost up to £2,000.
If planning stated that the stack had to be there on the original build then I suspect it still would be subject to the same rules. If you don't check for permissions you may be told to put it back again."
If planning stated that the stack had to be there on the original build then I suspect it still would be subject to the same rules. If you don't check for permissions you may be told to put it back again."
FAQs
How Wide Should a False Chimney Breast Be?
There’s a lot of flexibility on how wide a false chimney breast should be, and it’ll largely depend on the size of the room. But, on average, most experts recommend false chimney breasts being between 130 cm to 140 cm wide.
Can a Fake Chimney Breast Be Installed in Any Room?
Faux chimney breasts can be installed in most rooms, depending on structural considerations and size, especially if heavy materials are used.
Can I Install a Fake Chimney Breast Without Hiring a Professional?
Yes, though you’ll need to have good DIY skills and a good understanding of what the installation requires. Most homeowners hire a professional, especially if electrical work is involved.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Fake Chimney Breast?
A basic installation will take between 1 and 2 days, while more intricate designs with features like recesses, electrical work or custom shelving can take slightly longer.
What Building Regulations Apply to a Fake Chimney Breast with a Fireplace?
If your fake chimney breast houses a fireplace, the work must comply with UK building regulations. Gas appliances must follow Approved Document J and be installed by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Any electrical work — such as wiring for lighting or a TV recess — must comply with Approved Document P, which sets out safety standards for domestic electrical installations.
Do You Need Planning Permission for a Fake Chimney Breast?
In most cases, planning permission isn't required for a fake chimney breast, as it's typically considered permitted development. However, if the work involves significant structural changes or masonry, building regulations may apply.
If your home is listed or sits within a conservation area, you may still need planning permission, particularly if the work affects the property's character. Planning applications typically cost £100 to £200, with a decision usually received within 8 weeks. Always check with your local council before starting work.
