How Much Can a New Chimney Cost?

Masonry chimneys found on residential homes throughout the greater Toronto area have various original design variations which can influence a specific chimney replacement cost.

Interestingly; homes which are original to specific neighbourhoods in the GTA, often exhibit similar design characteristics involving their chimneys.

As an example: In the Etobicoke – Kingsway area, many homes typically have two or three flu chimneys using Range Rug brick (A mix of red and orange and brown hues); with a combed texture on the surface of the bricks.

As one progresses eastward into the Bloor West Village neighbourhood, and further into Swansea and High Park; a variety of original brick styles can be found. Red John Price bricks and Yellow Hue clay bricks can be found intermixed between individual houses on the streets of these neighbourhoods.

Particularly in High Park; tall three-story homes with difficult working access, add another dimension to the cost of the chimney replacement.

When considering many of the Neighbourhoods in Toronto which include Forest Hill, Wychwood Park,

The Annex, The Beaches, and so on; the bricks used, reflect the era in which the homes were built. In the context of rebuilding those chimneys to most accurately reflect the original brick styles can cost more than someone rebuilding the chimney with an ill-fitting “close match “ brick which is less expensive to purchase.

The costs associated with building or rebuilding a chimney are influenced by the following factors:

• The amount of scaffold required, including the time to erect and dismantle such.
• The access to the chimney for disposal of the older rubble.
• The access to get the new materials up ( Bricks and mortar).
• Time to match mortar colours to blend with existing brick or stonework mortar.
• The time to source the correct brick matches (often produced in older cities like Chicago) to reflect particular styles no longer made in the GTA.
• The personnel is required to dismantle the existing chimney safely and dispose of thereof lawfully.
• The time involved to replace inner chimney flues.
• The re-bricking of the new or replacement chimney.
• Resetting of gas liners (as if applicable)
• Protection of interior areas which may need care against dust infiltration
• Installation of pre-cast chimney caps or formed poured concrete caps ( large or heritage type chimneys)
• Design details such as corbelling or shadowing)
• metal flashings required at the base of the chimney to make the project watertight
• Installation of scotch pots if applicable.
• Installation of rain cap/animal screens to prevent animal intrusion.

If the chimney is a brand new build it can also involve:

• pouring a concrete pad or block foundation
• Construction of the hearth
• Installation of fire bricks
• Installation of dampers and building of the smoke chamber
• Completion of interior mantels
• Calculations and designs to ensure that the chimney draws properly.
• Permits and drawings /approvals

So the laundry list described above takes into account very specific requirements which are unique to each situation.

The most simple, good access chimney rebuild can range from around $2,500 to over $25,000, and beyond, for the installation of a custom chimney and fireplace depending on its; intricacy. Site conditions and finish details.

As with any trade installation; the quality of the work and the masonry company are reflected in the price.

Homeowners contemplating the rebuilding of an existing chimney or constructing a new chimney or fireplace; need to ensure they complete due diligence in verifying the masonry contractor’s experience and credentials, and insurance coverage including proof of WSIB in good standing and Fall Arrest training for all workers involved in the project.

Always be wary of low bids.

This signals either non-full compliance or that the understanding of direct and indirect costs to operate the Masonry Practice are not understood by the contractor.

As with any good result, experience is the foundation behind such work.

To learn more about the cost of a new chimney or other masonry requirements; visit www.avenueroadmasonry.com