How Much Does Chimney Cap Replacement Cost in 2025?
Highlights
Most homeowners spend between $125 and $1,000 on chimney cap replacement, with an average cost of $300.
Chimney caps are essential for protecting against weather, debris, and wildlife.
Standard chimneys are round or square, so oval or other shapes may require a custom cap.
Prefabricated chimney caps are more affordable, while custom designs are pricier.
Expect to spend between $100 to $200 on labor to replace a chimney cap.
Installing a chimney cap costs $300 on average but can range from $125 to $1,000 depending on the material and size. The chimney cap itself can cost between $25 for a prefab galvanized steel unit and $800 or more for a copper chimney cap. Factor in an additional $100 to $200 for professional installation.
A chimney cap is an important component of your chimney system because it closes off the top of the flue. Chimney caps prevent rodents, nesting birds, and bats from entering your home. They also keep out leaves and precipitation and prevent dangerous fireplace embers and sparks.
If your chimney doesn’t currently have a cap, it's important to install one as soon as possible to avoid problems and prevent extra chimney and fireplace costs. If your current chimney cap is failing, contact a pro promptly for replacement or repair.
Average Chimney Cap Replacement Cost
| Average Cost | High Cost | Low Cost |
|---|---|---|
| $300 | $1,000 | $125 |
Chimney Cap Replacement Cost Factors
The total cost of your chimney cap installation varies depending on factors like labor rates, size, and whether you opt for a prefabricated or custom chimney cap.
Size
The typical single chimney cap can be as small as 8-by-8 inches (square) or 8-by-13 inches (rectangular). Most chimney caps come at a set price per size.
| Chimney Cap Size (in Inches) | Average Cost Range (Including Installation) |
|---|---|
| 8x8 | $250–$300 |
| 8x13 | $300–$400 |
| 8x17 | $350–$400 |
| 13x13 | $350–$450 |
| 13x17 | $400–$500 |
| 14x37 | $600–$700 |
| 17x29 | $600–$650 |
Material
The biggest chimney cap cost factor is the type of material you choose. Galvanized steel chimney caps are the most affordable (as little as $25), while the typical copper chimney cap can reach $800 or more.
| Chimney Cap Material | Average Cost Range (Unit Only) |
|---|---|
| Galvanized steel | $25–$200 |
| Aluminum | $40–$400 |
| Stainless steel | $50–$500 |
| Copper | $200–$800 |
Chimney Cap Shape
The most common chimney cap shapes are round, square, and rectangular. Most retailers stock these shapes, so it’s usually easy to find prefabricated options at an affordable price. Oval chimney caps are less common, while custom cap shapes run the highest cost. A well-fitting chimney cap is key to avoiding chimney repair costs.
| Chimney Cap Shape | Average Cost Range (Including Installation) |
|---|---|
| Round | $300–$600 |
| Square | $350–$600 |
| Oval | $350–$650 |
| Rectangular | $385–$650 |
| Custom | $450–$850 |
Chimney Type
Most chimneys are made of masonry, which means you can use a standard prefabricated chimney cap. However, non-standard chimney types made from metal or other types of stone may need a custom cap. If you need to cap two or more flues, you’ll have to purchase a larger cap, which could double the price.
Custom vs. Prefab
Prefabricated chimney caps are the most affordable option, with an average cost of $200 to $650 with installation. However, if your chimney has an unusual shape or you want a unique style, you can order a custom chimney cap. These typically range from $450 to $850, including installation.
Labor
Professional chimney cap installation typically costs between $100 and $250, depending on local labor rates and the complexity of the installation.
If you need a chimney cap installed in the off-season (winter), companies may charge a higher rate because of the unfavorable (and sometimes dangerous) conditions. The ideal time to install a chimney cap is in the spring or fall when temperatures are warm but not too hot.
Decorative Finishes
A basic chimney cap can cost as little as $25, but if you want one with decorative finishes to enhance your home’s aesthetic, expect to pay on the higher end of the range, from $400 to $800.
Chimney Cap Replacement vs. Repair
The average cost to replace a chimney cap is around $300, while repairs typically range from $100 to $250. Repairs can be a good way to save money if your chimney cap has minor damage, such as a dent, crack, or small leak. Repair may also be the preferred option if you’ve invested in a custom chimney cap that may be difficult or costly to replace.
However, if your chimney cap is rusted or fully broken, it may be time for a replacement. If your chimney and chimney cap have been damaged by a major weather event, you may also want to consider a chimney inspection to ensure everything is working properly. In some cases, chimney removal or rebuilding your chimney may be more cost-effective than repairs if your chimney has suffered significant damage.
Does Replacing a Chimney Cap Increase Home Value?
While replacing your chimney cap doesn’t guarantee an increase in home value, it can potentially add value by protecting your chimney. New chimney components in good condition are an asset to potential buyers, so a replacement is often a good idea if your old chimney cap is broken. Investing in a new chimney cap can also boost curb appeal and increase the aesthetic appeal of your home.
Budgeting for Chimney Cap Replacement
Chimney cap replacement typically requires professional expertise, particularly since it requires climbing onto the roof. However, there are several steps you can take to help your replacement process stay budget-friendly:
Prepare your space: Your chimney pro will need to climb onto the roof, so it’s important to provide easy access and a clear space for the ladder. Remove deck furniture or other obstructions beforehand to ensure the process goes smoothly.
Shop for sales: The busiest season for chimney work is spring through fall, so many chimney products go on sale just before winter. Shop around or contact your chimney company to see if they can access discount rates.
Practice good chimney maintenance: Keeping your chimney clean and using a chimney liner can prolong the life of your chimney cap and minimize the need for replacement. Chimney sweeps cost an average of $250, but they are important for keeping your chimney functioning well.
Contact several pros: Reach out to multiple chimney cap installers in your area to compare quotes and find the right fit.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chimney caps are necessary to keep animals, water, and debris from falling into your home. They also control the wind to minimize the risk of a backdraft. If you use your fireplace, a chimney cap is crucial to keep dangerous embers from flying out the top of your chimney.
No, chimney caps do not keep rain out entirely. However, chimney caps minimize rain and ice accumulation inside the chimney, preventing significant water or ice buildup in your home. They must remain partially open to allow exhaust to escape. As such, they do not provide a completely waterproof barrier.
Chimney caps can last three to 25 years or longer, depending on the quality of the material. Galvanized chimney caps tend to have shorter lifespans, but stainless steel, aluminum, and copper caps can last more than 25 years, making them some of the soundest chimney cap investments you can make.
Generally, the top of the chimney cap must be at least five inches above the top of the flue. If you hire a handyperson for your chimney cap installation, they can advise on the size and type of cap to purchase.
Chimney crowns—similar to chimney chase covers—are flat areas directly beneath the chimney cap. The installer reinforces the top of the chimney with mortar or concrete to shed water and provide a protective cover for your chimney, sealing the top. A chimney cap is still necessary to protect the flue against weather and animals.
