How much does a second-floor gas fireplace with vertical venting through the attic cost to install in Ottawa?

A second-floor gas fireplace with vertical venting through the attic typically costs $4,500 to $8,500 installed in Ottawa, with the higher cost reflecting the additional complexity of routing vent pipe through multiple levels and properly sealing roof penetrations. This is roughly $1,000 to $2,000 more than a main-floor installation due to the extra venting materials, labour time, and roof work required.

The vertical venting adds several cost factors specific to Ottawa's climate. Your TSSA-licensed gas fitter will need to run the vent pipe through the attic space and create a weatherproof roof penetration that can withstand Ottawa's extreme temperature swings and heavy snow loads. The vent pipe requires proper support brackets every 6 to 8 feet, insulation clearances in the attic, and a high-quality roof flashing system to prevent ice dam formation and water infiltration. In Ottawa's climate, cheap flashing around vent penetrations is a recipe for expensive interior water damage within a few years.

The fireplace unit itself runs $2,000 to $4,500 for a quality direct-vent model suitable for a bedroom or family room. Installation labour adds $1,500 to $2,500, while the vertical venting materials and roof work contribute another $1,000 to $1,500. You'll also need a gas line run to the second floor if one doesn't already exist, which adds $300 to $800 depending on the route from your meter or existing gas lines.

Critical considerations for second-floor installations: The vent pipe must maintain proper clearances to combustible materials throughout its run, especially in the attic where insulation and wooden framing are present. The roof penetration requires careful attention to ice and water shield installation around the flashing. Many Ottawa homes have complex rooflines that make vent routing challenging, potentially increasing costs. Always verify that your contractor is TSSA-licensed for gas work and experienced with vertical venting installations.

When you're ready to get quotes for this project, you can browse experienced gas fireplace installers through the Ottawa Construction Network directory at justynrookcontracting.com/directory to compare local contractors who specialize in multi-level installations.