Chimney problems are common, but the costs can feel confusing. Homeowners often ask us: how much is chimney repair, and what affects the price?
In this guide, we explain chimney repair costs in a clear, honest way. This content is educational only. Expert Chimney Team does not provide chimney repair services.
How Much Does Chimney Repair Cost?
Most chimney repairs cost between $300 and $7,500.
The price depends on:
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The type of damage
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The part of the chimney that needs repair
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Whether the repair is minor or structural
Small fixes cost less. Major repairs or rebuilds cost more.
Why Chimney Repair Costs Vary So Widely
Chimneys are exposed to heat, moisture, wind, and freezing temperatures. Over time, these forces cause wear.
From our editorial research, chimney repair costs vary because:
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Damage is often hidden
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Chimneys are built differently
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Safety standards require proper materials and methods
A cracked crown costs far less than a full chimney rebuild.
Chimney Repair Cost Breakdown
Average Chimney Repair Cost Ranges
Here are common price ranges homeowners see:
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Minor repairs: $300–$1,000
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Moderate repairs: $1,000–$3,500
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Major repairs or rebuilds: $3,500–$7,500+
These ranges reflect common residential chimney repair scenarios.
How Much Does It Cost to Repoint a Chimney?
Repointing fixes deteriorating mortar joints.
Typical repoint chimney cost:
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$500–$2,500
Price depends on:
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Chimney height
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Amount of mortar damage
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Accessibility
Repointing helps stop water damage and brick movement.
Brick Chimney Repair Cost
Brick damage can range from surface cracks to loose bricks.
Typical brick chimney repair cost:
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$750–$3,500
Minor brick repairs cost less. Structural brick failure costs more.
Chimney Masonry Repair Cost
Masonry repairs include bricks, mortar, and chimney structure.
Average chimney masonry repair cost:
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$1,000–$4,000
This work restores stability and prevents further deterioration.
Chimney Crown Repair Cost
The crown seals the top of the chimney.
Typical chimney crown repair cost:
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$300–$1,500
Cracked crowns allow water inside, leading to costly internal damage.
Chimney Flashing Repair Cost
Flashing seals the joint between the chimney and the roof.
Average chimney flashing repair cost:
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$300–$1,200
Replacing flashing costs more than sealing small gaps.
Cost to Replace Chimney Flashing
If flashing is badly damaged:
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Cost to replace chimney flashing: $800–$2,000
This repair helps prevent roof leaks and interior water damage.
Exterior Chimney Repair Cost
Exterior repairs focus on visible damage.
Typical exterior chimney repair cost:
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$750–$3,000
Exterior repairs often involve masonry and waterproofing.
How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Chimney Flue?
Flue repairs depend on the liner condition.
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Minor flue repairs: $300–$1,200
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Flue liner replacement cost: $1,500–$4,000
Flue damage affects draft and safety.
Stainless Steel Chimney Liner Cost
Many homeowners ask about liner prices.
Average stainless steel chimney liner cost:
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Materials: $900–$2,500
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Installation: $1,500–$4,000
The cost of stainless steel chimney liner installation depends on chimney height and diameter.
Cost of a Stainless Steel Chimney Liner
Overall range:
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$1,500–$4,000 installed
Stainless liners are durable and commonly used for safety upgrades.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Chimney?
The phrase “fix the chimney” usually refers to mixed repairs.
Typical cost to fix a chimney:
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$500–$3,500
This may include mortar repair, flashing sealing, or crown patching.
How Much Does a Chimney Cost to Replace?
Full chimney replacement is rare but sometimes necessary.
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How much does it cost to replace a chimney?
$4,000–$15,000+
Costs rise with:
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Height
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Roof access
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Masonry complexity
Cost to Rebuild Chimney Above Roof
Partial rebuilds are more common.
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Cost to rebuild chimney above roof: $3,000–$7,500
This repair is often required when the top section is unstable.
How Much Does It Cost to Rebuild a Chimney?
A full rebuild involves major labor and materials.
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How much does it cost to rebuild a chimney?
$8,000–$15,000+
This is usually a last-resort solution.
Chimney Repairs Cost by Type (Quick View)
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Repointing: $500–$2,500
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Crown repair: $300–$1,500
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Flashing repair: $300–$1,200
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Flue liner replacement: $1,500–$4,000
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Partial rebuild: $3,000–$7,500
Chimney Repair Cost Calculator: What Really Matters
While online calculators help, real costs depend on:
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Chimney height
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Roof pitch
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Access difficulty
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Extent of damage
Inspections provide the most accurate estimate.
What Raises Chimney Repair Costs?
Common cost drivers include:
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Hidden water damage
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Structural instability
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Old or unsafe liners
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Code compliance updates
Repairs discovered late usually cost more.
Is Chimney Repair Worth the Cost?
From a safety perspective, yes.
Chimney repairs help:
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Prevent fires
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Stop carbon monoxide leaks
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Protect home structure
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Extend chimney life
Delaying repairs often increases total cost.
Safety and Inspection Considerations
Industry guidance, including NFPA 211, recommends chimney inspections:
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Annually
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After damage
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Before major repairs
Inspections identify problems early.
Chimney Repair vs Replacement
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Repair: Fixes specific issues
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Replacement: Rebuilds entire structure
Repairs are far more common and affordable.
How Long Do Chimney Repairs Take?
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Small repairs: 1 day
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Masonry repairs: 2–5 days
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Rebuilds: 1–2 weeks
Weather and access can affect timelines.
FAQs
1. How much is chimney repair?
Chimney repair typically costs between $300 and $7,500, depending on the type of damage, chimney height, and whether structural or liner repairs are required.
2. How much does it cost to repoint a chimney?
Repointing a chimney usually costs $500 to $2,500, based on how much mortar needs replacement and how accessible the chimney is.
3. What is the most expensive chimney repair?
The most expensive chimney repair is a full chimney rebuild, which can cost $8,000 to $15,000 or more, especially for tall or complex chimneys.
4. How much does a stainless steel chimney liner cost?
A stainless steel chimney liner typically costs $1,500 to $4,000 installed, depending on chimney height, liner diameter, and installation complexity.
5. Is chimney repair worth the cost?
Yes. Chimney repair helps prevent fires, carbon monoxide exposure, water damage, and structural issues, making it a critical safety investment for homeowners.
Final Thoughts: Chimney Repair Cost
So, how much is chimney repair?
For most homes, expect $300 to $7,500, depending on damage and repair type. Small fixes cost less. Structural or liner repairs cost more.
Understanding chimney repair cost helps you plan, budget, and protect your home safely.
The Expert Chimney Team provides research-based guidance and practical tips on fireplaces, chimneys, and home safety. With 6 years of editorial experience, we help homeowners maintain safe, efficient, and well-functioning homes with clear, easy-to-understand advice. Read More
