When it comes time to install or replace a chimney on your home, you’ll inevitably come across the two biggest names in the business: DuraTech and DuraPlus chimneys. Both offer durable, high-quality chimney systems that can handle the intense heat and corrosive elements produced by wood stoves and fireplaces.
But is one better than the other?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the key features, pros and cons of DuraTech and DuraPlus chimneys to help you decide which is the right fit for your home heating needs. We’ll look at important factors like durability, ease of installation, maintenance requirements, cost, aesthetics and more.
Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading an existing chimney, understanding the differences between these two industry-leading brands will ensure you make the smartest investment for safety, performance and enjoyment of your wood stove or fireplace.
Let’s dive in!
A Brief Comparison Table
| Factor | DuraTech | DuraPlus |
| Construction Material | 304 or 316 Stainless Steel | AL29-4C Stainless Steel |
| Temperature Resistance | Up to 2100°F | Up to 2100°F |
| Safety Features | Air-Cooled Design | Low Clearances to Combustibles |
| Installation Method | Twist-Lock | Twist-Lock |
| Exterior Finish | Brushed Stainless with Locking Bands | Brushed Stainless with Rivets |
| Warranty | 25 Years | Lifetime |
| Approximate Cost | $1000+ | $1200+ |
| Sizing Options | 6″ – 36″ diameters | 6” – 42” diameters |
| Maintenance Requirements | Annual Inspection/Cleaning | Annual Inspection/Cleaning |
| Customer Support | Knowledgeable Sales & Technical Support | Knowledgeable Sales & Technical Support |
An Overview of DuraTech Chimneys
DuraTech is one of the most established and trusted brands in chimney systems.
They’ve been manufacturing chimney products for over 70 years and are known for their rigorous safety testing and innovative designs.
DuraTech chimney systems are constructed from 304 and 316 grade stainless steel.
This high-quality stainless steel provides excellent corrosion resistance and can withstand temperatures up to 2100°F – far beyond the needs of any residential wood stove or fireplace.
Key features of DuraTech chimney systems:
- Constructed from 304 or 316 grade stainless steel
- Can withstand temperatures up to 2100°F
- Locking bands for secure connections
- High-tech Air-Cooled design for safety
- Twist-lock system for simple installation
- 25-year warranty on chimney components
DuraTech’s advanced manufacturing and design makes their chimneys extremely durable, with excellent resistance to corrosion. Their unique Air-Cooled design adds an extra layer of safety by limiting chimney temperatures.
Many homeowners are drawn to the sleek, modern aesthetic of DuraTech’s stainless steel chimneys. The industrial chic look can be an attractive design accent on any home.
Overview of DuraPlus Chimneys
DuraPlus is another leading brand that offers a complete line of chimney systems for wood stoves, fireplaces, furnaces and more. They’ve also been manufacturing chimney products for over 70 years.
DuraPlus chimney systems are constructed from AL29-4C stainless steel. This allows them to handle continuous temperatures up to 2100°F. The addition of chromium and silicon gives their stainless steel enhanced corrosion resistance.
Key features of DuraPlus chimney systems:
- Constructed from AL29-4C stainless steel
- Can withstand temperatures up to 2100°F
- Patented Twist-Lock design for easy installation
- Clearances to combustibles as low as 1″
- Tested to UL safety standards
- Lifetime warranty on chimney components
The AL29-4C stainless steel DuraPlus uses gives their chimneys excellent durability and corrosion resistance. Their Twist-Lock design allows for fast and secure connections between chimney sections during installation.
Many homeowners like the lower clearances to combustibles offered by DuraPlus. This allows more flexibility in chimney placement. The lifetime warranty also provides peace of mind on such a major investment.
Key Differences Between DuraTech And DuraPlus Chimneys
Now that we’ve provided an overview of each brand, let’s take a detailed look at how they compare across some of the most important factors for chimney systems.
- Durability
When investing in a chimney system, you want something that will stand the test of time.
Durability is critical.
Both DuraTech and DuraPlus make use of high-quality stainless steel in their chimney construction.
The 304 or 316 grade steel used by DuraTech provides excellent corrosion resistance and strength.
DuraPlus also boasts impressive durability with their AL29-4C steel blend.
Most homeowners will be well-served by either brand when it comes to durability alone. However, DuraPlus does provide a lifetime warranty on their chimney components, compared to 25 years from DuraTech. So for absolute peace of mind, DuraPlus has a slight edge.
But both systems have a proven track record of performing for decades when properly installed and maintained.
Winner: DuraPlus (due to lifetime warranty)
- Ease of Installation
Installing a chimney system can be a challenging process. So the easier the installation, the better.
When it comes to simplicity of installation, both DuraTech and DuraPlus offer excellent solutions. DuraTech chimneys feature a twist-lock design that allows sections to be securely stacked through a simple twisting motion.
DuraPlus utilizes this same twist-lock design for fast and secure connections.
The installation instructions and guides provided by both brands are clear, detailed and easy to follow for DIYers. Proper measurements and planning are still required for a smooth installation.
But the twist-lock connectors make the physical process of stacking chimney sections relatively painless.
If installing the chimney system yourself, either DuraTech or DuraPlus would be an easier, beginner-friendly option. For such closely matched performance in this category, there is no definitive winner.
Winner: Tie
- Maintenance Requirements
To achieve optimal safety and performance, chimney systems need occasional maintenance. Comparing the maintenance needs of DuraTech vs DuraPlus chimneys is an important consideration.
As stainless steel chimney systems, general maintenance is similar for both brands. An annual inspection and cleaning is recommended to remove any built-up creosote and other debris.
Some additional maintenance may be required on the exterior stainless steel surfaces. Because of DuraTech’s high-heat Air-Cooled design, they do not recommend chemical cleaners on the exterior. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is enough for routine exterior maintenance.
DuraPlus can also be wiped down externally with water and a soft cloth. But their chimneys can be chemically cleaned for more stubborn deposits or discoloration.
When it comes to stainless steel, neither system is inherently easier to maintain than the other when done properly. Homeowners can expect to invest similar time and effort keeping both chimney systems in proper working condition each year.
Winner: Tie
- Cost Comparison
Pricing is often an important factor when comparing chimney systems. The costs of both DuraTech and DuraPlus chimneys are in the same mid-range bracket of the market.
As a general guideline, a complete DuraTech chimney system will cost around $1000 or more, depending on the height and diameter required. Their premium 316 stainless steel model is close to $1500+.
For DuraPlus, expect to spend $1200 or more for a full chimney setup. Their top-of-the-line UltraPro model comes in around $1800+.
The final costs will also be affected by any installation or additional parts needed beyond the core chimney components. But both brands provide high-quality stainless steel systems without the extreme costs of custom architectural chimneys.
Winner: Tie
- Visual Aesthetics
Beyond just performance, many homeowners consider how a chimney will look on the exterior of their home.
DuraTech’s stainless steel construction has an attractive modern, industrial look. The shiny metal finish stands out against exterior siding or brick. Each joint is covered by a locking band that highlights the sleek segments.
DuraPlus chimneys also showcase an eye-catching stainless steel design. Their joints utilize riveted connections between segments rather than external bands. This gives a smooth, continuous appearance from top to bottom.
When it comes to aesthetics, personal taste will determine whether DuraTech’s banded industrial look or DuraPlus’s riveted contemporary style is most visually appealing. There is no clear winner in terms of chimney attractiveness.
Winner: Personal Preference
- Fire Safety
Safety is the number one priority for any chimney system. Comparing the fire safety performance of DuraTech and DuraPlus is crucial.
Both brands utilize advanced stainless steel materials designed to handle the extreme temperatures and corrosive elements that wood stove and fireplace systems produce. Either option provides the necessary durability and heat resistance when properly installed.
DuraTech’s unique Air-Cooled design does give their chimneys an added safety advantage. The air channels built into their system maintain lower external temperatures for reduced fire risks. DuraPlus chimneys are also safe by design but do not actively cool the exterior.
Both companies thoroughly test their products to meet all UL safety standards. However, for the extra degree of safety the Air-Cooled system provides, DuraTech gets the win in the all-important safety category.
Winner: DuraTech
- Chimney Sizing
Choosing the proper chimney diameter and height is critical for safety and performance. Sizing capability is another key area of comparison between the DuraTech and DuraPlus product lines.
DuraTech offers a wide range of chimney diameters from 6″ to 36″. Their segments come in a variety of lengths, starting at just a 6″ increment. So DuraTech provides flexibility to meet any chimney sizing requirements.
DuraPlus also offers a full spectrum of chimney diameters from 6″ up to 42″. Their Twist-Lock design allows chimney sections to be connected without gaps, providing continuous sizing adjustments.
Both leading brands can accommodate any chimney configuration. DuraTech sizes may require more segments pieced together for a custom fit, while DuraPlus has more pre-set increments. But chimney sizing versatility is excellent for both systems.
Winner: Tie
- Accessories
Completing your chimney system will require some vital accessories like flashing, caps, insulation and more. The availability of compatible accessories is important when comparing DuraTech and DuraPlus.
DuraTech provides an extensive catalog of accessories designed specifically for their chimneys. Anything from wall brackets, flashing and firestops to caps, insulation and even decorative shrouds can be ordered to match your system.
DuraPlus also has a full range of compatible chimney accessories needed for installation and use. Their components integrate seamlessly with DuraPlus chimney sections. Accessories can often be bundled together with the core chimney package.
No matter which brand you choose, all the essential chimney accessories will be available directly from the manufacturer to finish your system. Both offer thorough accessory options and customization.
Winner: Tie
- Warranties
The warranty coverage provided on chimney systems provides important protection on such a major investment in your home. Comparing DuraTech vs DuraPlus warranties reveals some key differences.
DuraTech provides a 25-year limited warranty on all of their stainless steel chimney components. This covers defects in materials and manufacturing only. Proper installation according to their guidelines is required for the warranty to be valid.
DuraPlus again edges out DuraTech by offering a lifetime limited warranty on their chimney system parts. This provides unmatched peace of mind and coverage. Proper use and maintenance are still required.
Both brands provide assurance that your chimney will perform as expected. But DuraPlus’s lifetime guarantee on any defective parts gives them the advantage here for maximum buyer protection.
Winner: DuraPlus
- Customer Support
If any questions or issues arise after purchasing your chimney system, customer support becomes vital. DuraTech and DuraPlus both offer the following resources:
- Knowledgeable sales support to help select the right system and accessories for your needs
- Technical support via phone and email to troubleshoot any installation or performance issues
- Detailed online resources like FAQs, product manuals, maintenance tips and video guides
- Professional local installers can be recommended if preferred over DIY
Between their website, customer service department and network of dealers, both brands appear to provide complete assistance for their chimney customers when needed.
Response times may vary, but support is available.
For thorough, responsive customer support, it’s a close matchup. Homeowners can expect their questions to be answered and concerns resolved by either company.
Winner: Tie
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, DuraTech and DuraPlus are not interchangeable. Each brand designs components to fit their own chimney systems. Mixing parts from DuraTech and DuraPlus is not recommended and will void warranties. Choose one brand and source all sections and accessories accordingly for proper fit and performance.
No. DuraTech and DuraVent are competing brands that make stainless steel chimney systems. Both offer quality products but they are not the same company. Key differences include DuraTech’s Air-Cooled design and DuraVent’s emphasis on low clearances to combustibles. Warranties and accessories also differ between the two.
DuraTech chimneys are designed for use with wood stoves, wood furnaces, fireplaces, outdoor boilers and other solid fuel appliances that produce exhaust, creosote and moisture. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion from condensation and provides the durability to handle temperatures up to 2100°F. DuraTech chimneys work for both indoor and outdoor applications.
For most wood stoves, an insulated stainless steel chimney offers the best performance, safety and durability. Leading insulated stainless steel chimney brands recommended for wood stoves include DuraTech, DuraPlus, DuraVent, Olympia and Security Chimneys International. Consider factors like temperature resistance, corrosion protection, ease of installation and visual appeal when choosing a chimney system for your wood stove.
Final Thoughts
When comparing DuraTech and DuraPlus chimneys in this head-to-head battle, DuraPlus comes out slightly ahead with 4 wins, DuraTech has 2 wins, and the remaining factors are tied.
DuraPlus wins in the durability, cost, accessories and warranty categories. DuraTech’s strong points are their innovative Air-Cooled safety design and attractive modern aesthetic.
But both are clearly well-engineered, high-quality chimney systems that will enhance the performance and safety of your wood stove or fireplace. Installed and maintained properly, either brand will provide years of peak performance.
For many homeowners, the longer lifetime warranty of DuraPlus or the Air-Cooled technology of DuraTech will seal the deal. Others may come down to visual appeal or availability from local suppliers.
Hopefully this detailed side-by-side comparison provides helpful guidance as you determine whether trusted industry leader DuraTech or long-standing innovator DuraPlus is the right chimney system for your home.
With your new knowledge, you can choose confidently between these two excellent stainless steel chimney options.