Replacing a chimney costs an average of $9,300 including removal of the old chimney or between $3,100 and $15,400, depending on materials.
Nothing makes a home feel cozier than a fire on cool nights. But it’s important to make sure the fireplace and chimney are in good working order.
Whether your chimney is old and worn or it has cracks and damage, there are many reasons you may want to replace a chimney. Typically, the expense of chimney replacement begins at approximately $3,100 and can go up to about $15,400, resulting in an average cost of $9,300. The total cost for chimney replacement or installation is influenced by various factors, including the type of materials used, the chimney's dimensions, and the overall chimney type. These elements play a significant role in determining the overall cost for the project.
The size of the project can vary based on whether you are replacing part of the chimney or opting for a complete chimney rebuild. Keep in mind that the cost to replace a chimney can increase for taller chimneys of 10 feet or more.
A full chimney removal and replacement costs more than $5,000, and extensive rebuilding projects can cost upward of $20,000. You’ll need a full replacement for extensive damage, such as a leaning or crumbling chimney.
A partial chimney rebuild costs about $1,500 to $4,000. This type of reconstruction may include rebuilding the stack from the roofline upward.
You may need to extend your chimney for better ventilation or to meet building codes, which will cost about $500 to $3,000.
Chimney replacements are a dangerous job that often require a structural engineer and a masonry expert. Expect to spend about $500 for a structural engineer, plus $50 to $75 an hour for masonry work. If you remove an old chimney, a demolition crew will cost around $50 per worker per hour.
Because materials play a very important role in chimney repair costs, let’s take a closer look at how much some popular materials tend to cost.
Replacing a brick chimney will cost $60 to $200 per linear foot. Additionally, if you wish to add a brick fireplace, it may require an extra $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the specific design and size.
Stone chimneys generally incur higher replacement costs compared to brick. The cost of replacing a stone chimney can range from $80 to $250 per linear foot, with additional expenses for any stone fireplace additions.
Metal chimneys offer a more affordable option for replacement. The cost of replacing a metal chimney typically falls within the range of $40 to $120 per linear foot. However, it's essential to consider any additional costs for integrating a metal fireplace if required.
Whether you need to freshen up the mortar of your chimney or replace the chimney stack or crown, many factors can impact the cost of replacing a chimney.
You may need a permit to replace a chimney, especially for removing the old chimney. Permits will cost about $20 to $150, depending on your location.
The size of the chimney directly affects the overall cost of replacement. Larger chimneys require more materials and labor for the replacement process, leading to higher expenses. The bigger the chimney, the greater the amount of materials needed, such as bricks or stones, which adds to the overall cost. Additionally, larger chimneys may require more time and effort for the labor, further contributing to the increased replacement cost.
There are several types of fireplace replacement options. For example, preserving elements like the hearth is possible when replacing only a chimney stack, reducing costs. Full replacement means dismantling the entire fireplace, increasing expenses. Adding a new fireplace or dealing with asbestos can also influence costs. Choices in materials and design play a role in determining the overall cost of the project.
Here are the costs for fireplace replacements, including the price of removing the old fireplace.
| Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Gas Fireplace | $5,300–$7,200 |
| Electric Fireplace | $700–$4,700 |
| Wood Stove | $3,400–$5,300 |
| Stone Fireplace | $4,500–$6,400 |
Mortar on a chimney lasts 25 to 30 years, while chimney crowns may survive up to 75 years. To ensure your chimney is safe, have your chimney inspected and maintained by a chimney sweep once a year, which will cost around $250.
Signs your chimney may be at the end of its life include:
Leaning
Leaking
Crumbling or deteriorating bricks
Cracking in the chimney crown
Chipping or cracking in the mortar
Discoloring in the wall or ceiling around the chimney
Rust appearing in the firebox or damper
Whether or not you should repair or replace a damaged chimney depends on your budget and the chimney’s condition. Minor repairs, like chimney parging, may be more affordable than a complete replacement. However, when there is more significant damage, replacing an old chimney is cheaper, safer, and easier. A chimney that is not structurally sound may collapse or catch fire.
Improperly built chimneys can cause fire risks, and there is a danger of the chimney collapsing during a removal or a rebuild. Even if you’ve had luck with some risky DIY projects in the past, this is one project you don’t want to take a chance on. Instead, hire a local mason to ensure the chimney is built safely.
Chimney installation costs are also something you’ll need to budget for. Installations and replacements are complex tasks that should be left to chimney repair professionals near you. As key structural components of a home, DIY attempts can be dangerous and compromise the safety of residents. Non-experts lack the expertise to ensure proper installation, risking structural integrity and potential hazards. Additionally, working on the roof for masonry work requires specialized skills and safety measures that only professionals possess. Entrusting chimney projects to qualified experts ensures the job is done safely and efficiently, protecting both the home and its inhabitants.
Chimney cracks can be caused by various factors. One primary reason is exposure to extreme weather conditions, such as freeze-thaw cycles, which can lead to the expansion and contraction of masonry materials. Other causes include the settling of the building's foundation, poor construction, inadequate chimney maintenance, and water infiltration. Over time, these factors weaken the chimney's structure, causing cracks to develop. If left unaddressed, the cracks can worsen, leading to further deterioration and the need for chimney replacement. Regular chimney inspections and timely repairs can help prevent significant damage and prolong the chimney's lifespan.
Yes. Sealing a chimney is a crucial step to protect it from water damage. Applying a waterproof sealant or chimney water repellent can create a protective barrier, preventing water from seeping into the masonry. This is especially important for new chimneys, as the initial sealing helps to preserve the chimney's structural integrity and prevents potential cracks caused by water infiltration. Regularly inspecting and reapplying the sealant as needed ensures that the chimney remains well-protected from water and extends its lifespan. Proper chimney maintenance, including sealing, is essential for keeping your chimney in good condition and preventing costly repairs in the future.
If your chimney has been damaged by tornadoes, lightning strikes, storms, or a fire, then homeowners insurance will likely cover a chimney replacement. However, damage caused by high winds or earthquakes may not be covered, and insurance doesn’t usually cover replacements for old or worn chimneys.
