Many homeowners choose to install a log burner because they create a cosy and inviting space in the home, others are more practical and buy for the energy-saving benefits! If you're thinking about adding a wood burner to your home, you may be wondering if it will add value to your property. There are several reasons why a wood burner can potentially increase the value of your home, in addition to providing warmth and ambience and here’s why! 

Contents

The Appeal of a Wood Burner
How Much Value Can a Log Burner Add to Your Property?
Why Does a Log Burner Add Value to Your House?
Costs to Consider Before Installing a Log Burner

There are several reasons why a wood burning stove would be appealing to potential buyers of your property and in turn, could increase the value of your home. Log burners have many practical attributes as well as looking incredibly stylish and snug. A wood burner adds a cosy and rustic charm to almost any room and by creating a warm and inviting atmosphere this can really increase the overall attractiveness that your home can offer.

Log burners have certainly increased in popularity over the years and thanks to their sustainability and efficiency they are back in fashion! With a renewable energy source, wood burners are seen as a sustainable heating option and with new more efficient eco models they can help reduce heating costs as wood is a relatively cheap fuel source when compared to gas, oil & electricity. 

Overall, the presence of a wood burner can make your property stand out and attract buyers who appreciate the aesthetic and practical benefits that a log burner offers.

A log burner can be a long-term home investment, while initial setup costs are something to bear in mind, they can help you save money in the long term by helping you reduce your reliance on the grid and rising energy tariffs.

We’ve read various home improvement articles and it is it’s widely suggested that a log burner could increase the value of your home by as much as 5%. According to the House Price Index, as of July 2023, the average house price in the UK sits at £289,824, this means adding a wood burner to your home could increase the value of it by almost £15,000. If you decide to install a wood burner to try to improve the attractiveness of your home remember to deduct the cost of the log burner and the installation costs to calculate your overall profit.

With concerns about the rapid increase in energy costs and the environment, home buyers will be heavily focused on how energy-efficient your home is. The energy efficiency and cost savings associated with a wood burner can be appealing to potential buyers. By investing in a wood burner, you’ll enhance the comfort and aesthetics of your home, but you also have the potential to make your home more cost-effective when it comes to the energy needed to heat it.

There is no doubt that selling your home can be a stressful time and you’re going to be faced with huge competition for other homes in the area. It is essential that your property stands out from the rest and a log burner can do just that! We’ve put together the main reasons why a log burner adds value to your house and explained why.

1. Makes your home energy efficient - One of the main reasons why a wood-burning stove can increase the value of your property is its efficiency and potential energy cost savings. Wood burners are known for their ability to efficiently heat a space, providing warmth and comfort while reducing the need for other heating sources. This can result in lower energy bills and long-term cost savings for homeowners. Additionally, wood is often more affordable than other fuel sources such as gas or electricity, making it a cost-effective option for heating. Potential buyers who are conscious of energy efficiency and cost savings may be attracted to a property with a wood burner already installed.
2. Adds warmth & charm - Another great reason why a wood burner can increase the value of your property is because it creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere. The warm glow and crackling sound of a wood burner can instantly make a space feel more welcoming and comfortable. This can be especially appealing to potential buyers who are looking for a home with a cosy ambience. Whether it's a living room, bedroom, or even an outdoor patio, a wood burner can transform any space into a cosy retreat. Not only does this enhance the overall appeal of your property, but it also adds value by creating a unique selling point that sets your home apart from others on the market.
3. Long-term investment - Because a wood burner is made from high-quality steel or cast iron when you invest in a log burner it will last a very long time. There is also very little maintenance required, other than an annual chimney sweep there are no electronic parts that can fail or that will need to be replaced like a gas boiler or heat pump. This makes wood burners incredibly attractive to those wanting a reliable heat source without the hassle.

Before installing a wood burner in your home, there are several important factors you should consider. First, you need to ensure that your home is suitable for a log burner. This usually means that you’ll need to have a working chimney, if you don’t have a chimney then you’ll need to factor in the cost of constructing one or fitting a flue system. You should also check with your local authority to see whether there are any regulations in your area required for installing a wood burner. For example, if you live in a smoke-controlled area you’ll need to ensure you purchase a stove that is DEFRA approved if you plan on burning firewood.

Another important factor to consider is the initial cost of the wood burner and the installation fees. Wood burners can vary dramatically in price, so it's important to set a budget and determine how much you are willing to spend on the project. For a home with a pre-existing chimney, the purchase and installation of your log burner could cost around £3,000, depending on what model you have in mind. You should also consider the ongoing costs of purchasing firewood and maintaining the burner as you’ll need to have your chimney swept annually.

Finally, consider the potential impact on your home's resale value. While a wood burner can increase the value of your property, it may not be appealing to all buyers. Some people may prefer other heating options or have concerns about storing wood and re-fuelling requirements of a wood burner. It's important to weigh the potential benefits against any potential drawbacks before making a decision. If you’re interested in hearing about alternative heating solutions to a wood-burning stove read our dedicated guide.