Chimney Cleaning Costs

Though it is something most often associated with the children’s film, Mary Poppins, the job of the chimney sweep still exists today and is as important as it was in those long-ago days. The chimney sweep has been modernized, though, and although their work is still to keep the safety of the home as a priority, they use different tools and tactics. The cost of a chimney cleaning, however, varies based on a few factors.

The type of fireplace or apparatus in use, the type of fuel burnt, and the amount of maintenance previously done will all contribute to the cost of the cleaning. Additionally, the accessibility of the roof and frequency that the fireplace or woodstove is used may affect the price. The average is roughly $240, though fireplaces that are regularly maintained may come in cheaper.

Chimney cleaning: by type for a 12’x12’ chimney.

Other considerations and costs

• Interestingly enough, some chimney sweeps do not charge by the whole job but may instead just charge per hour. The average hourly rate is $75, while flat rates typically average out at around $200.
• Getting on a regular maintenance routine with your chimney sweep as well as using DIY methods and proper burning tactics can all combine to reduce the costs of annual chimney sweep service.
• If the chimney is attached to a wood stove, it is a good idea to know how to best operate that woodstove and to get it cleaned periodically throughout the year. Twice annually is a good routine and will cost around $100 for each visit by an expert. This will include removing the woodstove from a direct connection with the chimney and may result in an additional fee.
• Repairs are often part of the chimney sweep process, or at least the discovery of repairs needed. These are not included in the chimney cleaning cost and may be as incredibly costly as the need to replace a chimney liner, averaging around $3,500 or more, but it may also be as inexpensive as a new chimney damper, ranging from $200 to $500 or the replacement of a chimney cap, which can be as much as $700, but ranges lower than that at around $200.

DIY considerations

• Chimney cleaning is not really a DIY project and can end up being a very messy mistake. It is best to simply hire experts, have them use their special tools and skills, and enjoy a safe fireside season.

References

• Craftsman Estimator Costbook, complete series year 2019.
• Latest prices found on Home Depot and other vendor Web sites.
• Literature review of DIY Web sites.