When during new-home construction should I choose and order the fireplace?
Pick it before framing is finished — ideally at the framing and rough-in stage, well ahead of drywall. The fireplace decides the wall framing, the venting route, the gas-line stub, and any electrical for a blower, and you want all of that chased while the walls are open. On lead time, order it weeks ahead so it's on site when framers need it.
Why 'before drywall' is the rule
A direct-vent fireplace needs a sealed coaxial pipe running out a sidewall or up through the roof, and that path gets framed for during rough-in — not carved out later. The same window is when the gas line gets stubbed to the fireplace location and a blower's electrical outlet gets run. All of it is cheap and clean while the framing's open, and expensive once there's finished drywall and stone in the way.
Coordinate with your builder early
We work right alongside your general contractor: we own the appliance, the venting, and the permitted, pressure-tested gas line, and your builder owns the framing and the finish. The handoff only works if we're in the conversation at rough-in, before the trades close up the walls. Bring us the plans early and we'll mark exactly what the framer needs to leave for us.
Give the order enough runway
The unit itself is special-ordered to your size, fuel, and front — natural gas if you're on the Asheville or Hendersonville mains, propane if you're building out in the county. Lead times vary by brand and model, so order early enough that the fireplace is on site when it's time to set it, rather than becoming the thing that holds up your framing schedule. Call (828) 545-0525 to get on the calendar.
Related questions
- Should I take the builder's standard fireplace or upgrade through a specialty showroom?
- How long does it take to get a fireplace after ordering it?
- Does installing a fireplace require cutting into my walls or roof?
- Who coordinates the gas line, electrician, and finish work — me or the fireplace company?
- When should I order a fireplace to have it installed by winter?
- How long does a gas fireplace last?
Still deciding? Talk to a real installer.
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