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How Much Does Chimney Damper Replacement Cost?
A chimney damper is one of the numerous elements that enhance the quality and safety of the house. A question that comes to mind regarding a damper replacement is probably like the following; What is the need for this? What is a chimney damper, and why one would think of replacing it instead of going with a chimney damper repair, how much would it cost, and is it worth it? These are all concerns that should be addressed especially in this case considering the context of a chimney damper, which happens to be a component of the heating and ventilation system in the room.
Is Chimney Damper Replacement Worth the Investment?
Let us address this common concern and answer it directly instead. A chimney damper installation may seem just another cost, and you will be wrong in your assessment as it is an important component which improves the energy efficiency, convenience and most importantly the safety of your house. When a fireplace is not in use, effective dampers prevent the cold air from entering the house thus reducing the amount of heating needed hence reducing the heating bills. Many people do not realize this, but a chimney damper also prevents the chimney system damage due to weather changes over time. For this reason, replacing a chimney damper contributes to the safety and efficiency of the house.
How Much Does Chimney Damper Replacement Cost?
The price range of replacing a chimney damper might differ widely due to various determinants like the type of damper, the cost of labor and other repairs that might be required. Considering how much competitors charge and the average costs across major types of products, let us highlight the reasons for such costs and the range of costs you should expect.
- Types of Chimney Dampers and Their Replacement Price
There are two major categories of chimney dampers. These are throat dampers and top sealing dampers. Both dampers have certain advantages and certain price ranges.
-Throat Dampers- The throat section above the firebox contains the fireplace dampers, which are the conventional ones. Throat dampers also tend to be less expensive, costing about 150-300 dollars in material. However, they are usually less efficient in keeping out the drafts, as compared to the top sealing dampers. Additionally, there are costs for the installation of the throat dampers which range from 200 to 400 dollars, depending on the difficulty of installing and labor costs in the region. Replacing a throat damper, on the other hand, may cost anywhere between 350 and 700.
– Top-Sealing Dampers: Top-sealing dampers are fitted at the extreme top of the chimney. This quality allows for tighter closure and is energy effective in this way that it does not only help block wind and draughts but also animals, dirt and rain from going down the chimney. They are however pricey; usually in the range of three hundred and fifty to five hundred dollars there are also materials required – instalment is easy, generally – around two hundred to four hundred dollars. This means that the total cost for that will fall between five hundred and nine hundred However, usually the energy cutback makes this type of chimney damper replacement worth the cost.
- Labor Costs
Labour cost varies with the geographical location and skills of the contractors involved. In general, labour for replacing a damper ranges anywhere from $200 to $500 depending on the job complexity, how it further depends on how high the chimney is, and whether other related services are needed. It is always a good idea to hire a qualified expert as he will make sure the damper works perfectly after it is installed.
- Additional Repairs or Services
Sometimes, additional work needs to be carried out on the chimney, such as some masonry work or structural alterations, for instance, these too will be chargeable. In some cases, for example, a few small cracks or a bit of general wear, repairs may be charged in the sum of $100 – 200; however, larger problems are able to incur several hundred dollars more or even additional.
- DIY vs. Professional Installation
Some homeowners may feel that replacing a damper would be an easy enough task for them to do, to cut down on labor costs. A homeowner can purchase a DIY damper replacement kit, which ranges from $100 to $300, depending on the type of damper purchased. Professional installation is the best solution even if it will cost you extra. This is because attempting to install a damper on your own may result in several issues. First, it may be improperly fitted thereby resulting in energy wastage due to drafts escaping through the damper. Further, damages may occur to the house such as structural and cosmetic damages which can be quite expensive to rectify in the future. Therefore, it is sensible to incur the costs of hiring the best professionals to do the installation.
Final Words
Chimney damper replacement may look like an insignificant step; it is, however, a key aspect when it comes to the comfort, efficiency and safety of the home. Such an investment is justifiable especially if you manage to acquire a top sealing damper which promises better sealing and longevity. The cost varies, but anticipate at least spending from $350 to $900 based on the damper style, how much installation will cost and if there are any other added services.
The benefit extends beyond just the purchase as a new damper installed will help in reducing the heating cost, excluding draughts and averting dangers from the home. When evaluating the service provider, make sure to check on the warranties available and maintenance to best protect your expenditure. Be it a throat damper or a top-sealing damper, an installed chimney damper will ensure your house is energy efficient as well as provide you with comfort.