How Much Does a Chimney Replacement Cost in 2026?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Replacing a chimney costs an average of $9,300, with most homeowners spending between $3,100 and $15,400, depending on the materials used. Whether your chimney is old and deteriorating or has sustained damage, understanding the factors that influence the cost can help you budget effectively for your chimney replacement project.

Chimney Replacement Cost by Material

The materials you choose for your chimney significantly impact the replacement cost. Here are typical costs per linear foot based on material:

Chimney Rebuilding Costs by Scope

Below are the costs associated with various types of chimney rebuilding tasks.

Stack Rebuild

The chimney stack—the visible part of your chimney above the roofline—plays a crucial role in venting gases and smoke safely out of your home. Damage to the chimney stack, such as popping bricks or structural deterioration, can compromise its function and safety. Rebuilding a chimney stack typically costs between $1,500 and $4,000.

Stack Extension

Extending your chimney stack to improve ventilation or meet building codes typically costs between $500 and $3,000, depending on the materials, additional height required, and any existing damage.

Full Rebuild

On average, a full chimney replacement costs around $9,300. For larger or more complex projects—such as those involving fire damage, a leaning chimney, or extensive mortar deterioration—costs can exceed $20,000.

Partial Rebuild

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 about $1,500 to $4,000.

Chimney Replacement vs. Repair

Deciding between repairing and replacing your chimney depends on the extent of the damage. For minor issues like a few loose bricks, repairing is often the best option, with chimney repairs costing homeowners around $460 on average. However, if your older chimney has significant structural damage—such as large cracks or a broken flue liner—replacing it might be more cost-effective in the long run.

DIY vs. Hiring a Chimney Professional

While it might be tempting to tackle chimney projects yourself, the high risk of injury and potential for improper construction make it wiser to hire a professional. An incorrectly built chimney can lead to leaks, leaning stacks, cracks, and dangerous structural issues—resulting in fire risks and costly repairs. To ensure safe and proper replacement, it's best to hire a chimney professional near you with the expertise to do the job right.

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.