“Why does this thing barely put off any heat?”

f you’re a homeowner in Roanoke, Smith Mountain Lake, Salem, or surrounding areas, chances are you’ve looked at your fireplace at some point and thought…

👉 “This thing could look a whole lot better…”

Or maybe:

👉 “Why does this thing barely put off any heat?”

You’re not alone.

We replace outdated, inefficient fireplaces every single week at Skyline Hearth & Fire, and most homeowners are shocked at how much better their space—and heat output—can be.

Let’s break down your options and what actually makes sense here in Southwest Virginia.

🔥 Types of Fireplaces (What’s Right for Your Home?)



🔥 Gas Fireplaces (Most Popular Option)

Gas fireplaces have become the go-to for most homeowners—and for good reason.

✔ Pros:

• Instant heat and convenience
• Clean burning (no mess, no wood)
• Remote control / thermostat options
• High efficiency (serious heat output)

⚠ Cons:

• Requires gas line
• Higher upfront cost than electric

💡 Best for: Homeowners who want heat + convenience + a modern look

🔥 Wood Burning Fireplaces (Classic Feel)

Nothing beats the crackle and smell of real wood.

✔ Pros:

• Authentic experience
• No reliance on gas or electricity
• Great for rural properties

⚠ Cons:

• Lower efficiency (unless upgraded)
• More maintenance
• Requires wood storage

💡 Best for: Homeowners who love the traditional fireplace experience

🔥 Electric Fireplaces (Fastest Growing Trend)

Electric fireplaces are blowing up right now—and honestly, they’ve come a long way.

✔ Pros:

• No venting required
• Easy installation
• Lower cost
• Great for remodels and additions

⚠ Cons:

• Less heat than gas
• Not a real flame

💡 Best for: Quick upgrades, remodels, or design-focused spaces

🔄 Fireplace Remodels: The Biggest Transformation You Can Make

This is where things get fun.

Most homes in our area have:

• Outdated brick
• Inefficient vent-free systems
• Builder-grade fireplaces
• 
  

We turn those into:

👉 Modern, high-efficiency focal points
👉 Clean, updated designs
👉 Something you actually want to sit around

💡 Real talk:
A fireplace remodel can completely change the feel of your entire home.

💰 How Much Does a Fireplace Cost in Roanoke, VA?

Here’s the honest breakdown:

💵 Gas Fireplace Install:

• $5,000 – $12,000+

💵 Electric Fireplace Install:

• $2,500 – $7,000+

💵 Wood Burning Fireplace:

• $8,000 – $20,000+

💵 Full Fireplace Remodel:

• $10,000 – $25,000+

💵 High-End Custom Build:

• $25,000+
• 
  

What affects price?

• Venting requirements
• Gas line installation
• Framing & finishing work
• Material selections (stone, shiplap, tile)
• Unit brand and size
• 
  

🧠 Common Fireplace Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Keeping an inefficient vent-free system
• ❌ Installing the wrong size unit
• ❌ Poor venting design
• ❌ Mounting a TV without planning heat management
• ❌ Hiring someone who “kinda does fireplaces”

👉 Fireplaces are NOT a side trade. Done wrong, they’re unsafe and underperforming.

🏡 Why Homeowners in Roanoke Are Upgrading Fireplaces

People want:

• Better heat efficiency
• Updated modern looks
• A real focal point in their home

And honestly…

👉 Once it’s done, it becomes everyone’s favorite spot in the house.

🛠️ Why Choose Skyline Hearth & Fire?

We specialize in:

• Fireplace sales, service, and installation
• Gas, wood, pellet, and electric systems
• Full fireplace remodels and transformations
• Custom design + in-home consultation

👉 We don’t just install fireplaces… we fix problems and create showpieces.

📍 Serving Southwest Virginia

• Roanoke
• Salem
• Smith Mountain Lake
• Bedford
• Lynchburg
• Lexington
• Blacksburg / Christiansburg
• 
  

👉 Ready to Upgrade Your Fireplace?

If your current fireplace is outdated, inefficient, or just plain ugly…

Let’s fix that.

📞 Call: 540-595-9194
📍 Visit: 1619 Shenandoah Ave NW, Roanoke, VA

Or stop by the showroom and see what’s possible.