How Much Does a Chimney Cap Replacement Cost in 2025?
Replacing a chimney cap costs an average of $300
Most homeowners spend between $75 and $500 for a new chimney cap, with an average cost of $300.
Chimney cap replacement cost factors include the cap type, shape, size, materials, and labor.
A chimney cap protects the flue from weather, debris, and curious wildlife.
Round or square caps fit most chimneys; oval or other shapes often call for a custom design.
Prefab chimney caps cost less, while custom versions push the price higher.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Installing a chimney cap costs an average of $300, but you could pay anywhere from $15 to $1,000, depending on size, shape, and material. Most homeowners spend between $75 and $500 to replace their chimney cap. The cap alone ranges from $15 for a prefab galvanized-steel model to $900 or more for a copper version.
A chimney cap seals the top of the flue, keeping rodents, nesting birds, and bats outside. It also blocks leaves, rain, and snow and stops stray embers or sparks from escaping. If your chimney doesn’t have a cap, add one as soon as possible to sidestep future problems and extra chimney and fireplace costs. If your current chimney cap is failing, contact a chimney pro promptly for replacement or repair.
Chimney Cap Replacement Cost Factors
Labor rates, cap size, and whether you choose a prefab or custom unit all influence the final price. How often you swap out a chimney cap is one of the biggest price drivers. Plan to inspect the cap every year and replace it roughly every five to 10 years—or sooner if you notice damage or heavy wear.
Here’s a closer look at the cost factors that impact your total chimney cap replacement price.
Size
A standard 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 (Inches) | Average Cost Range (All-In) |
|---|---|
| 6x6 | $50–$250 |
| 8x10 | $75–$300 |
| 8x17 | $100–$400 |
| 13x13 | $100–$400 |
| 14x37 | $200–$450 |
| 17x29 | $300–$500 |
Material
One of the biggest chimney cap cost factors is the type of material you choose. Galvanized steel chimney caps are the most affordable, costing as little as $15, while a copper chimney cap can cost $900 or more.
| Material | Average Cost Range (Unit Only) |
|---|---|
| Galvanized steel | $15–$200 |
| Stainless steel | $50–$500 |
| Copper | $150–$900 |
Chimney Cap Shape
The most common chimney cap shapes are round, square, and rectangular. Most retailers stock these shapes, so it’s easy to find prefabricated options at an affordable price. Oval chimney caps are less common, and custom cap shapes run the highest cost. A well-fitting chimney cap is key to avoiding chimney repair costs.
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 materials may require 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. However, if your chimney has an unusual shape or you want a unique style, you can order a custom chimney cap. These range from $200 to $1,000, including installation.
Labor
Labor makes up an average of half of the total project cost. If you need a chimney cap replacement during the off-season (winter), your local chimney cap installer may charge a higher rate due to the unfavorable and sometimes hazardous conditions. The ideal time to install a chimney cap is in the spring or fall when temperatures are warm but not too hot.
Chimney Cap Replacement vs. Repair
Repairs can be a cost-effective solution 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 severely damaged, it may be time for a replacement. If a major weather event has damaged your chimney and chimney cap, 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.
Budgeting for Chimney Cap Replacement
Chimney cap replacement 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:
Prep the area: Clear a path to the roof and move patio furniture so the pro can set up a ladder quickly.
Look for off-season deals: Many chimney parts go on sale right before winter, so ask suppliers about discounts.
Stay on top of maintenance: Regular cleanings and a chimney liner help your cap last longer. Hiring a local chimney sweep costs an average of $250 and is a worthwhile investment in maintaining your chimney.
Get multiple quotes: Contact at least three local installers to compare pricing and service.
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
Yes, a chimney cap is essential for keeping birds, squirrels, rain, and debris out of the flue. By stopping stray embers and blocking downdrafts, a chimney cap helps your fireplace run safely and efficiently. The cap also protects the chimney’s inner walls from moisture damage, saving you from costly repairs down the road.
Most chimney caps last anywhere from three to 25 years. Galvanized steel sits at the low end, while stainless steel, aluminum, and especially copper can exceed the 25-year mark. Annual inspections, quick repairs, and routine chimney cleanings all help the cap reach its full lifespan and keep the flue protected.
A good rule of thumb is to set the cap at least eight inches above the top of the flue. That clearance keeps the draft strong, lets smoke exit freely, and prevents back-puffing into your living room. Extra height also adds a little more protection from wind-driven rain and snow without hurting airflow.
The crown is the solid concrete or mortar slab that sits on top of the chimney stack and sheds water away from the masonry. The cap, mounted above the flue, adds the final layer of defense by blocking rain, animals, and embers while still letting smoke out. Working together, the crown guards the structure and the cap safeguards the flue.
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