How Much Does a Chimney Liner Installation Cost in 2024?

The national average for a chimney liner installation costs $2,675, with most homeowners paying anywhere from $1,650 to $3,700.

A chimney liner might seem trivial, but its significance in enhancing safety and functionality cannot be overstated. By containing combustion byproducts and preventing heat transfer to surrounding walls, it ensures heating system efficiency and safeguards your home from potential hazards.

And knowing how much a chimney liner installation costs is important if you’re considering relining your flue. Homeowners can expect to spend between $1,650 and $3,700 for a professional installation, while the national average cost is around $2,675.

However, the overall costs can span from a modest $608 to a more substantial $6,483, reflecting the intricate balance between desired quality and specific conditions.

Average Chimney Liner Costs in 2025

National Average Cost$2,675
Typical Price Range$1,650 – $3,700
Extreme Low-End Cost$608
Extreme High-End Cost$6,483

To keep your family safe from house fires, you need to keep your chimney working properly. You also need an equally efficient flue liner. Installing a new liner costs around $2,675, on average. But for most homeowners, the total cost of a chimney liner installation typically ranges from $1,650 to $3,700.

However, as with any home improvement project, the final expense depends on numerous factors, including the type of chimney liner material, the size and condition of the chimney, roof height, the number of connected appliances, and more.

Homeowners seeking the most cost-effective solution might spend as little as $608, while complex installations may need an investment of around $6,483.

Chimney Liner Cost Estimator by Material

The choice of material holds the key to both the cost and effectiveness of your chimney liner installation. These materials have different levels of durability and longevity, directly impacting the overall expense. Here’s a breakdown of popular liner materials and their associated costs:

Chimney Liner MaterialTypical Price Range (per linear foot)
Aluminum$5 – $28
Cast-in-place$29 – $224
Stainless steel$20 – $78
Terracotta (clay)$8 – $16
Thermocrete (ceramic)$50 – $210

Aluminum

Aluminum chimney liners, which cost around $5 to $28 per linear foot, are a cost-effective solution – ideal for moderate-temperature applications. Their lightweight nature makes them relatively easy to install. These liners offer resistance against corrosion and are particularly useful for gas appliances. However, their suitability for high-heat environments may be limited.

Cast-in-Place

If you want a custom-fit solution, cast-in-place chimney liners are constructed directly within the chimney. Expect to pay between $29 and $224 per linear foot for this approach that ensures a seamless and well-insulated lining. Cast-in-place liners can adapt to irregular chimney shapes and sizes, enhancing their efficiency in heat containment and combustion byproduct ventilation.

Stainless Steel

Renowned for their durability, stainless steel chimney liners are versatile and effective across various heating applications. With a cost of around $20 to $78 per linear foot, their corrosion resistance and ability to withstand high temperatures make them well-suited for wood-burning, gas, and oil-burning appliances. They’re also relatively easy to install, offering a reliable and long-lasting option.

Terracotta (Clay)

Terracotta clay tile liners exude a traditional aesthetic while offering moderate durability. These liners, costing just around $8 to $16 per linear foot, are known for their heat retention properties – enhancing the draft and efficiency of the chimney. However, they might require more regular maintenance due to their susceptibility to cracking over time.

Thermocrete (Ceramic)

If you can spare $50 to $210 per linear foot, you can choose this premium ceramic material. Thermocrete can provide excellent insulation, contributing to enhanced energy efficiency. These liners are suitable for a wide range of appliances, including wood, gas, and oil-burning systems. They create a smooth and insulated pathway for exhaust gases, reducing the risk of creosote buildup and improving overall chimney performance.

Other Factors That Affect Cost

Apart from the material, other variables affect the total cost of a chimney liner. These include the kind of liner you choose, how big your chimney is, your roof’s details, and how tricky the installation is. Explore these cost factors to get a clear picture of why the cost is what it is.

Type of Chimney Liner

Choosing the right type of liner is another pivotal factor affecting overall installation costs. Each type offers a distinct blend of attributes that influence both performance and pricing. Let’s delve into the various liner types and their corresponding costs:

Type of Chimney LinerTypical Price Range (per linear foot)
Single-wall liners$20 – $40
Double-wall liners$40 – $90
Rigid liners$22 – $50
Flexible liners$18 – $100

Single-Wall Liners

At a cost of around $20 to $40 per linear foot, single-wall liners are straightforward and economical, often used for gas appliances. While they provide a basic level of protection, they may not be suitable for higher-heat applications, which could influence their overall cost-effectiveness.

Double-Wall Liners

If you need an added layer of insulation and durability, you can opt for double-wall liners. This design suits a broader array of heating systems, offering improved heat containment and enhancing chimney efficiency. You can expect to pay between $40 and $90 per linear foot, depending on the quality of materials and insulation used.

Rigid Liners

Often constructed from stainless steel, rigid liners are favored for their robustness and smooth interior surfaces. These liners facilitate efficient venting and can be particularly beneficial for wood-burning appliances. Considering the liner diameter and material quality, these liners can cost anywhere from $22 to $50 per linear foot.

Flexible Liners

For chimneys that are not straight, you need flexible liners. At around $18 to $100 per linear foot, these liners are versatile solutions that can adapt to complex chimney shapes. While some options are more expensive than rigid liners, the cost can vary significantly based on material, insulation, and compatibility with specific heating systems.

Size and Condition of the Chimney

The next fundamental factor that influences the cost of installation is the dimensions and health of your chimney.

A standard chimney typically ranges around 12 inches by 12 inches and reaches a height of around 25 feet. Larger and taller chimneys might involve more labor and materials, increasing the overall cost of installation. Conversely, shorter chimneys need a more straightforward installation process, potentially reducing expenses.

Before installing the liner, a thorough assessment by a chimney professional can determine the condition of your chimney. If deterioration, creosote buildup, or structural issues are present, you must address these concerns to ensure the liner’s effectiveness and prolong the lifespan of your chimney system.

Number of Connected Appliances

The number of appliances connected to your chimney will affect the cost of installation. Every appliance, whether a furnace, water heater, fireplace, or wood stove, adds an extra layer of complexity to the installation process. Each connection requires careful consideration of venting requirements and compatibility with the chimney liner.

A single appliance installation might entail a simpler and more straightforward setup, potentially leading to a more cost-effective installation process.

However, as the number of appliances connected to your chimney increases, the project’s intricacy expands – translating to higher costs. Chimneys servicing multiple appliances may require more intricate liner designs, additional connectors, and enhanced insulation to accommodate various heating systems.

Roof Slope

Your roof’s incline, known as its slope or pitch, directly affects the complexity and intricacy of the installation process – influencing both labor intensity and safety considerations.

  • Low-sloped roofs: Homes with low-sloped roofs – gentle inclines – often present a more accessible installation terrain. The ease of maneuvering on these roofs typically results in a smoother installation process, potentially reducing labor hours and costs.
  • High-sloped roofs: As the slope of the roof increases, so does the challenge of installation. Working on steeper roofs necessitates extra safety measures, specialized equipment, and careful navigation. These factors collectively contribute to a longer installation timeline and elevated costs.
  • Fluctuations in pitch: Homes with varying roof slopes, such as those with dormers or complex architectural designs, can introduce additional intricacies. Since the workers must navigate changing angles and execute precise installation methods, it can impact both the labor required and the overall cost.

Home Height

The vertical expanse or stories of your home can add complexity to the work. A single-story house differs significantly from a multi-story home when it comes to material and labor requirements.

  • Single-story homes: Installing a flue liner in a single-story home often involves a more straightforward process. With accessible rooflines and reduced elevation challenges, the installation tends to be less labor-intensive. Also, it will require less materials than multi-story homes with taller chimneys.
  • Multi-story homes: For a home with multiple stories and longer chimneys, the complexity of liner installation mounts in tandem with its height. Venting a chimney from a higher roofline demands additional precautions and specialized equipment, which can extend the installation timeline and elevate costs.

Labor Costs

The expertise of chimney professionals will affect how well the installation goes, as well as the cost of labor.

Liner installations involve many processes, including checking the chimney, fitting the liner correctly, and working on the roof and appliances. The cost of labor usually falls between $75 and $150 per hour, but this range isn’t just numbers – it represents a lot of experience, dedication, and know-how that goes into a perfect installation.

The details of your project decide how long the installation takes to complete. If it’s a simple job, it might be on the lower end of the cost range. But if it’s more complicated, like dealing with multiple appliances, a tricky roof, or fixing other components of the chimney, it might take more time and make the overall cost go up.

Insulation

Adding insulation helps your chimney work more efficiently. However, it will add an extra $8 to $15 per square foot to the cost of installation.

But with insulated chimneys, less heat gets lost, the airflow is better, and you avoid having water buildup. Plus, the energy you save from keeping heat in can save you money in the long run.

Permit

Getting a permit for the liner installation will usually cost between $25 and $200. While it might cause a small delay, it’s a crucial step to ensure the installation is done safely and follows the local rules and building codes.

Chimney Accessibility

How easy it is to reach your chimney directly changes how the installation goes. If your chimney is easy to get to and there’s nothing blocking the way, it’s usually quicker and simpler to put in the liner. This means less work time and labor costs.

But if your chimney is in a tight spot or has things blocking it, the installation gets more complicated. Contractors might need to work around things like vented skylights or other parts sticking out from your roof to reach the chimney. This more complex work can make the installation take longer, which means more work time and higher costs.

Insurance and Warranties

Check if the installation team carries liability insurance. While it might not have a direct impact on the cost of installation, it helps safeguard against unexpected events. Liability insurance covers accidents or damages that might occur during the installation process, protecting both the professionals and your property.

Most chimney liners often come with manufacturer warranties. But you should check if there’s also a warranty for the installation. Warranties can provide invaluable coverage against potential issues down the road. Even if these warranties contribute to a slightly higher upfront cost, they offer long-term value by ensuring the durability and performance of your chimney.

Regular maintenance can help ensure the chimney works well and prevents carbon monoxide poisoning. It’s also crucial to check the chimney’s condition, clean away buildup, replace old flashing, and repair broken parts. These services work together to keep your chimney system in top condition.

Chimney Inspection

Before any chimney relining project, it’s vital to get a thorough chimney inspection first. This inspection helps figure out the condition of your existing liner as well as the chimney. You need all the details about your chimney’s condition before starting the installation. This crucial step shows any problems that might cause trouble during installation or affect how well the liner works later.

These chimney inspections, which cost around $165 to $2,035, don’t just find hidden issues like cracks, weak parts, or too much buildup inside the chimney, but it also ensures your chimney is ready for the new liner. By dealing with these issues before they become a problem, homeowners can prevent unexpected difficulties during installation and ensure the new liner works well for a long time.

Chimney Sweep

Your chimney needs a professional sweep, priced at around $110 to $290, at least once a year. The chimney cleaning crew will clean the inside of the chimney flue and eliminate dirt, soot, and creosote buildup. This careful cleaning service gets the chimney ready for the new liner, making sure it’s clean and ready to work well.

However, these cleaning services do more than just clean the chimney. It works like getting a canvas ready for a painting. By getting rid of creosote and clearing any blockages, a chimney sweep before the installation ensures the new chimney liner works great and is safe to use.

Flashing Installation

Along with your chimney relining project, it might be a good time to check if your chimney and roof flashing need replacements. If so, you can expect to spend anywhere between $412 and $1,107 for the flashing installation.

While it might add to your expenses, it’s crucial for keeping your chimney and roof from letting water into your home. This way, your home stays safe from leaks and water damage. Also, it’s super important to have strong flashing because water could mess up how well the liner works.

Chimney Repair

Before you start putting in a new liner, it’s a good idea to get the chimney repaired if needed. Expect to spend around $200 and $1,050, but this repair work fixes any problems like worn-out bricks, cracks, or parts that are falling apart in the chimney. By dealing with these problems beforehand, the new liner will have a strong base to work on.

Cost of Chimney Liner by Location

Where you live also matters. Your location affects the cost of installation because of things like how much people get paid for work, the rules in your area, and how easy it is to get the materials you need.

  • Urban cities: In bustling urban areas, labor rates are higher due to the cost of living and demand for skilled professionals. Additionally, local building codes and regulations might introduce specific requirements that impact the installation process, potentially influencing the overall cost.
  • Suburban areas: Suburbs often exhibit a blend of labor rates and regulatory considerations that fall between urban and rural extremes. The cost of installation could be influenced by accessibility, permitting processes, and proximity to professional services.
  • Rural regions: In more rural settings, labor rates might be relatively lower, aligning with the local economic landscape. However, factors like distance from suppliers and professionals could influence material and labor costs, shaping the overall installation expenses.

FAQ

When should I replace my chimney liner?

Chimney liners should be replaced when they exhibit signs of deterioration, damage, or inefficiency. Cracks, flaking, or corrosion in the liner can compromise its ability to contain and vent smoke and gas safely. If you notice increased creosote buildup, draft issues, or water infiltration, it’s time to consider replacing the liner.

It’s not a good thing to let your chimney liner corrode. Regular inspections by a professional can help determine the condition of your liner and guide you on when to replace it.

Can I DIY install a chimney liner?

If you’re a pro when it comes to do-it-yourself home improvement projects, you may try installing the chimney liner yourself or with the help of your friends who are also DIY enthusiasts. DIY kits are available, with aluminum chimney liner kits priced around $100 to $350 and stainless steel kits from $400 to $600.

However, you must understand the complexities involved. Proper installation requires specialized knowledge, safety precautions, and adherence to building codes. Hiring a professional ensures correct sizing, proper insulation, and compliance with safety standards, which are critical for optimal chimney performance and safety.

What are the benefits of installing a chimney liner?

Flue liners enhance safety by containing smoke, gas, and sparks, preventing them from infiltrating your home’s structure. Liners improve draft efficiency, optimize appliance performance, and prevent creosote buildup that can lead to chimney fires.

It also can help protect masonry chimneys from corrosion caused by acidic byproducts, prolonging their lifespan. Overall, these liners provide a safer, more efficient, and longer-lasting chimney system.

Do I still need to install a chimney cap if I already have a chimney liner?

Even if you have a liner in place, it’s still a good idea to put a chimney cap on top. While a flue liner serves to direct combustion byproducts from gas fireplaces, a chimney cap offers an added layer of protection. It acts as a safeguard against debris such as leaves, twigs, and foreign objects that could potentially obstruct the chimney flue.

Additionally, the cap prevents animals from nesting in the chimney, reducing the risk of blockages and hazardous situations. Some caps also feature spark arrestors, helping prevent sparks and embers from igniting combustibles and causing house fires.

Along with the cap, a chimney crown is a smart thing to have as well. It helps keep water from seeping into the chimney walls, which can cause damage. If you’re not sure what cap or crown to get, talk to a chimney professional. They’ll help you pick the right ones for your chimney to keep it safe and working well.

What is the best chimney liner material?

The choice of the best chimney liner material depends on your heating system, budget, and intended use. Stainless steel liners are versatile, durable, and suitable for most heating systems. Aluminum liners are cost-effective and ideal for gas appliances. Terracotta and ceramic liners offer traditional aesthetics and excellent insulation properties.

But regardless of the material you choose, remember to fully open the damper when you’re using the fireplace to allow proper ventilation and smoke to escape. And when the fireplace is not in use, close the damper properly to prevent drafts and heat loss.

Final Thoughts

Your appliances will work well if the air moves better. And having the right chimney liner installed means your home is safer from leaks, chimney fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning.

With a typical price range of around $1,650 to $3,700 and a national average cost of $2,675, chimney liner installation can help make your home cozy and safe without putting a big strain on your budget.Want to make your chimney work even better and be safer? Get in touch with a local chimney professional to request a quote and take the first step in fortifying the backbone of your chimney.

Note: RoofGnome may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.

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Melanie Joseph

After discovering her passion for writing through her beauty blog, Melanie left her engineering job in California, became a writer, and never once looked back. When she isn't writing, she loves dipping in the pool, tending to the garden, or doing simple home improvement projects.