A chimney liner costs $2,500 on average, but it may cost somewhere between $1,500 and $5,000, depending on the materials, labor, chimney condition, and other factors.
Chimney liner costs can vary significantly depending on the material, size of the chimney, and local labor rates. For instance, a small job can cost as low as $625, but if your chimney is larger or you use more expensive materials, chimney liner installation costs can go as high as $7,000.
A chimney liner is a protective covering inside your chimney, and it serves several purposes. First, chimney liners protect your chimney from corrosive gases and creosote residue that wear away the masonry over time. In addition to protecting the bricks, a chimney liner—also called a flue liner—improves the heating efficiency of your fireplace and reduces fire risk.
Chimney liners run the length of your chimney flue. Common materials for these flexible tubes include stainless steel, clay, terracotta, and thermocrete. Depending on the materials (and how often you get your chimney cleaned), a chimney liner should last 15 to 25 years.
Always make sure a trusted chimney sweep near you thoroughly inspects the liner every year. A chimney sweep cleaning costs just $255 on average and can keep your chimney running safely and efficiently through the years.
When estimating your chimney liner cost, consider key factors, such as the anatomy of your chimney, size of the flue, units connected to it, the liner material, and labor.
Depending on the type of chimney liner you choose, the cost of materials will be between $10 and $250 per square foot. Stainless steel, for example, is more expensive than aluminum, which is typically sold in a kit including all materials. Clay is less costly than steel at around $10 per square foot, and it is known for its safety ratings and strength.
Additionally, some materials, like aluminum, can only be installed in gas fireplaces, and others, such as cast-in-place options, require more labor and specialized equipment to install. Insulation can also add to the cost.
| Material | Cost | Fireplace |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel | $65 per square foot | Wood and gas |
| Aluminum | $100–$300 | Gas |
| Clay | $10 per square foot | Wood |
| Cast-in-place | $25 per square foot | Wood and gas |
Labor costs make up a significant portion of the overall cost to replace your chimney liner and can vary locally. Expect to pay between $400 and $1,250. The amount of labor depends on the type of material you choose and the condition of your chimney. For example, if the existing liner needs to be removed, the project will require more labor.
Before a pro installs your liner, arrange for a professional chimney inspection, if you haven’t had one recently. (Often, you’ll learn that you need to replace the liner because of what the pro finds during your inspection—in which case you won’t have to worry about this separate cost.)
Chimney inspections allow professionals to clean your chimney and keep an eye out for any common chimney problems. During the inspection, the professional can assess the state of your liner and determine if it needs repairs or a full replacement (and if so, what material to use). On average, a chimney inspection costs $250.
Depending on where you live, you may also need to obtain a building permit before having a pro install a new chimney liner.
Chimney liner installation costs can vary significantly depending on several factors. The material you choose can have the largest impact, but these factors also affect the final price:
Have your chimney cleaned before installing a liner so all surfaces are spotless before the liner materials are installed or poured. A chimney cleaning will cost approximately $125 to $250.
The height and width of the flue and chimney can affect the price of materials and labor. The standard diameter of a chimney is 6 to 8 inches. It may cost more to install a liner if you have a chimney that is not a standard size or one that is older than a few decades.
More than the chimney itself can impact the cost to replace the chimney liner. For instance, the height and pitch of your roof may affect labor costs.
In general, local masons will charge more if your roof is higher or if the roof has a steeper slope, simply because there’s more risk involved, which necessitates working more slowly and carefully.
The material you choose for your chimney liner will impact the overall cost of the project. Here are the options to compare when planning your budget.
| Type of Chimney Liner | Cost |
|---|---|
| Stainless steel | $65 per square foot |
| Aluminum | $300 per kit |
| Clay/terracotta | $10 per square foot |
| Cast-in-place | $25 per square foot |
| Ceramic sealant | $5,000 per chimney |
Stainless steel liners cost an average of $65 per square foot. Many fireplace pros recommend steel for its strength and relatively high safety rating. It comes in either a rigid or flexible form and has a lifespan of approximately 15 to 25 years.
Aluminum liners cost an average of $100 to $300 for the entire project kit. While this material costs considerably less, it can only be installed in gas fireplaces and used at low temperatures because it can corrode easily. Ask your pro if an aluminum liner is a safe and feasible choice for your chimney. Aluminum has a lifespan of 5 to 15 years.
Clay, ceramic, and terracotta cost an average of $10 per square foot. While the material itself is very affordable, there are significant labor costs for installation, which can make the total installation cost higher. These materials will not corrode or conduct heat, but they can crack when exposed to high temperatures over time. Clay, ceramic, and terracotta are not recommended for modern gas appliances and can be costly to replace, fix, or retrofit. These materials have a lifespan of 50 years.
Cast-in-place—also commonly referred to as poured-in-place—liners cost an average of $25 per square foot. This is a labor-intensive option that requires a lot of material and specialized equipment to execute, which drives up the price. The installer pours a cement-like mixture around rubber tubing and removes the tubing once the mixture is dry. Cast-in-place liners strengthen the structural integrity of the chimney, so it can withstand high heat and resist corrosion. These liners have a lifespan of 50 years.
Ceramic sealants like Thermocrete cost an average of $5,000 per chimney. This option can only be used to repair an existing chimney liner that is structurally sound with minimal surface damage. Ceramic spray coats the chimney walls, acts as a sealant, and fills in existing cracks. It can improve the energy efficiency of older chimneys and has a lifespan of 50 years.
Labor does make up a large portion of the overall cost to replace a chimney liner, but you shouldn’t try to cut costs by DIYing the installation yourself. Chimney liners are crucial to the structural integrity of your fireplace, but they’re also important for fire safety. For that reason, we always recommend working with a professional.
Find a chimney liner installer near you to assess your chimney, determine which chimney liner material will work best, and install it. Get at least three quotes before hiring a pro, and rely on online reviews, as well as referrals from family and friends, to narrow down the list.
A chimney liner lasts between 15 and 25 years on average, but the material of the liner can have a huge impact on how long it lasts. For instance, aluminum liners may only last five years while a cast-in-place liner can last as long as 50 years. Regular chimney inspections and cleanings can ensure you get the longest lifespan out of your liner.
Creosote is released from burning wood and is composed mostly of tar. It sticks to the chimney liner since it can be found in small amounts in the smoke from wood burning in the fireplace. It is very flammable and can even lead to chimney fires. Annual inspections as well as periodic chimney cleanings can help keep creosote under control.
A chimney without a liner is not recommended. Chimney liners protect the surrounding structure from heat, reducing the risk of fire or structural damage. Just as important, liners prevent carbon monoxide and other toxic gases from leaking into your abode by guiding smoke and gases out more effectively. Remember, installing a liner ensures safety and extends the life of your chimney.
Yes, you can install a liner in an old chimney that is in good working condition. In fact, it's often necessary for safety and efficiency. Older chimneys may lack liners or have deteriorated ones, leading to heat damage, gas leaks, or reduced performance. Installing a stainless steel, clay tile, or cast-in-place liner improves safety, protects the chimney’s structure, and boosts energy efficiency. This upgrade can extend the life span of an old chimney while meeting modern safety standards.
