How Much Does Chimney Replacement Cost?

Homeowners typically pay $3,000 on average to replace their chimneys. However, they can pay as little as $1,000 or as much as $15,000, depending on the chimney size, type, and rebuilding method. This guide will cover each major cost factor to help you see how it can impact the total price. 

Rebuild Chimney Stack Cost

A chimney stack is the part of your chimney above the roofline. Its purpose is to transport gases and smoke from your fireplace through the roof and away from your home. A damaged chimney stack can lead to bricks popping out, your chimney breaking apart, and hinder fumes from leaving your fireplace efficiently. The average cost to rebuild a chimney stack is $500 to $3,500. 

Chimney Stack Extension

Some homeowners may need to extend their chimney to improve ventilation or get it up to code. Extending a chimney stack costs around $1,000 to $3,000, with the material (like brick and metal), its height, and how far the damage is all impacting the price. 

Full Chimney Rebuild Costs

The average chimney replacement costs about $10,000. Larger chimneys or more complex projects—such as dealing with fire damage, a leaning chimney stack, and mortar deterioration— can cost significantly more. Contact a chimney repair pro for an estimate.

Partial Chimney Rebuild Costs

Not all homeowners will need a total chimney replacement. A partial chimney rebuild might be for you if you only have damage at the top of your chimney, like a few missing, cracked, or crumbling bricks on your chimney stack. This method is best for small chimneys that don’t require scaffolding. The price of a partial chimney rebuild costs around $1,000 to $4,000.

Chimney Replacement Cost Factors

Various elements of this project will affect the total project cost. Below, we cover chimney replacement cost factors in-depth. 

Materials

The type of material your chimney has will influence the cost of this project. For example, a metal chimney can cost $5,000 to $10,000 to replace, while a brick chimney can range from $4,000 to $15,000 because you’ll need additional bricks to replace your chimney and the necessary labor to install them. 

Chimney Cap Replacement

If you need to replace your chimney cap because it’s damaged, it can also add to the total project fee. The average cost to replace a chimney cap is around $350.

Fireplace Replacement

Replacing your fireplace will also increase the total project cost. The cost to install a fireplace is typically $900 to $4,000, depending on the material, fireplace removal, and if you need to install gas pipelines. Additionally, the cost to remove a fireplace can range from $4,000 to $10,000, based on if you need a partial or complete removal. 

Chimney Replacement vs. Repair

If you have an older chimney that has sustained damages like large structural cracks or a broken flue liner, it might be time to replace your chimney. On the other hand, if your chimney only has minor damages you caught early on (like a few loose bricks), repairing your chimney makes more sense. The cost to repair your chimney is $460 on average. 

One of the most significant factors to consider when replacing or repairing your chimney is the cost. If it’s more cost-efficient to replace it versus spending money on a costly repair, a total chimney replacement is what you may need. 

DIY vs. Hiring a Chimney Professional

Chimney projects may seem like a doable project for DIY-ers with a ladder. But the high risk of injury and potential for an improperly built chimney make this a safer and more cost-efficient project to leave to a chimney repair company near you. A wrongly built chimney can lead to leaks, leaning chimney stacks, and cracks, resulting in dangerous structural issues, fire risks, and a more costly repair job to fix the damages. 

FAQs

When should I replace my chimney?

A properly maintained chimney won't likely need a full replacement in your lifetime. In fact, the world's oldest chimneys were built in the 12th century. However, parts of your chimney will need replacing over the years.

Remember that annual inspections and maintenance are essential to maximizing your chimney's life span. The average cost of a chimney inspection is $450. Hiring a pro to check your chimney yearly helps ensure that each part lasts as long as possible.

How much does a new brick chimney cost?

Hiring a mason or bricklayer to install a new brick chimney costs anywhere from $60 to $200 per linear foot. A 15-foot chimney may cost $900 to $3,000. Installing a brick fireplace adds another $2,000 to $5,000 to the project, totaling $2,900 to $8,000. 

How much does it cost to repair a brick chimney?

Most homeowners spend between $180 and $1,000 repairing a brick chimney. Fixing 10 or fewer bricks costs about $180 to $500; more bricks will cost around $750 to $1,500.

The most common chimney repair is cleaning the creosote buildup. Creosote is a byproduct of combustion gases common in wood-burning fireplaces. Since creosote is a flammable substance, an extensive buildup can increase the risk of chimney fires. Chimney sweeping costs around $250 and is best done by a local chimney sweep since they'll often inspect other elements of your system simultaneously.

What causes cracks in a chimney?

Chimney cracks come from a few main causes: water expansion, improper installation, or low-quality materials. Water is acidic, and when it combines with creosote, dampers (the door at the base of your flue) that control airflow in your chimney can rust and fail. The water can destroy existing mortar and damage wood near the fireplace, such as ceilings and floors. If a chimney is improperly installed or made with inexpensive materials—with mortar being the biggest culprit—water can seep in faster and cause quicker cracking.