A chimney cap typically costs around $300
A chimney cap costs about $300 to install or repair, with a typical range between $75 and $1,000. But the price will fluctuate based on the type of repair, the material used, and the dimensions of the chimney cap. Despite being simple in nature, a chimney cap is one of the most integral parts of the chimney system. They help keep debris and wild animals out of the chimney, allowing your fireplace to run safely.
| Low End | Average | High End |
|---|---|---|
| $75 | $300 | $1,000 |
How Much Is a Chimney Cap?
You can select from three types of chimney cap materials—galvanized steel, stainless steel, and copper.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel has the lowest durability out of the three, but also comes with the lowest cost. A galvanized steel chimney cap will cost anywhere from $15 to $200, depending on the gauge of the steel and the size.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel chimney caps are the next level up when it comes to strength and durability. These chimney caps usually last longer than their galvanized counterparts. Expect to pay around $50 to $500 for a stainless steel chimney cap.
Copper
Copper is considered the top tier of chimney caps. This type of cap has one of the most pleasant aesthetics while also standing up to debris, rain, snow, and critters. When shopping for a copper chimney cap, expect to pay around $150 to $900, depending on size and shape.
Chimney Cap Repair or Replacement Cost
Realistically, a broken or damaged chimney cap often isn’t worth it to repair. The price of materials needed and labor typically comes out to be the same price as replacing it, putting the price for both repair and replacement at around $350.
Chimney Cap Installation Costs
Beyond material and type of repair, a few details go into the chimney cap replacement process. You should think about cleaning the area before work begins and consider whether you want a custom cap or a prefabricated option.
Labor
Typically, labor makes up about 50% of the project's total cost. However, it's likely to take up more, as most homeowners often buy the chimney cap separately before a chimney repair company installs it.
Custom vs. Prefabricated Chimney Caps
Custom chimney caps have gained popularity in recent years. They allow you to choose more stylish options that wouldn’t necessarily be available from prefabricated options.
Custom chimney caps can range anywhere from $200 to $1,000, depending on the shape, colors, and type of material requested.
Prep Work
You should ideally have a clear spot for the chimney cap to go. Your best bet is to hire a chimney sweep to handle the job. Chimney sweeps cost anywhere from $130 to $380—and you can also ask if they install chimney caps.
How Much Does a Chimney Cap Cost to Replace or Repair Yourself?
If you’re familiar with a toolbox and you have a relatively flat roof (a pitch of 4/12 or under), you should be good to install the chimney cap yourself. In addition to the chimney cap of your choice, you'll need a ladder and a screwdriver. You'll save around $150 to DIY.
You may consider sealing your chimney while you’re installing the cap. The cost of sealing and capping a chimney is around $575 on average.
Remember, any time you're up on a ladder or your roof, you're taking some risk. That's why it may be better to call a professional to handle the job. But if you’re planning to replace or repair a chimney cap yourself, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with all the important parts of a chimney, which are illustrated below.
Frequently Asked Questions
A chimney cap is necessary to keep your fireplace running smoothly—and your home safe. One of the main reasons to install a chimney cap is that it helps keep away wild animals such as birds and squirrels, but it also serves as protection from debris entering the rest of the system.
Chimney caps have a solid top, but perforated sides so smoke can exit safely. If rain or snow falls downward, chimney caps can protect the chimney’s interior. Just note that if rain or snow blows in sideways, there’s a higher likelihood it will enter the chimney—but it's not often a cause for concern as long as you have a cap.
Most chimney caps will last anywhere from three to 25 years, depending on the material and climate. You can up your chances of a chimney cap lasting to the end of its typical lifespan by doing small repairs on it, as-needed. Keep in mind that it likely won’t last as long if you live in an area with lots of severe weather—no matter how much maintenance you do on it.
Ideally, your chimney cap should be at least eight inches above the top of the flue, though it's better if it's even higher. You want it to sit that high because it won't affect the chimney's draft, which pulls the smoke up and out of your chimney and away from your home.
