Chimney Sweep FAQ - Valley Chimney Sweep & Restoration

Do gas logs need cleaning?

Vented gas logs generate some soot and carbon just like wood-burning fires and can leave deposits in the chimney the same way. Find out more information here.

Does my chimney need servicing?

National Fire Protection Code 211 requires an annual inspection of all chimney systems. Here’s why: In a wood burning system, incomplete combustion results in unburned residue which rises in the chimney as part of the smoke. The residue is deposited on the inside of the chimney walls, presenting a major fire hazard to the home. Gas and oil flues should also be checked on an annual basis for any soot deposits or debris blockage which could lead to dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning. A chimney professional can sweep the inside of your chimney to eliminate these dangers. Learn more about chimney services here.

How is a chimney cleaned?

When one of our certified sweeps arrives, he/she will tarp the work area and assist you in moving items out of the area. The chimney will then be evaluated for its condition and if cleaning is in order. A special dust collection vacuum will run during the cleaning process. The damper will be removed if possible and the flue cleaned from the roof or from the appliance opening. If the unit is a fireplace, the smoke shelf and smoke chamber will be cleaned. The firebox is cleaned by hand, all debris is removed and the damper is re-installed. You can learn more about our entire process here.

If I am missing a brick on my chimney, is it necessary to get it repaired?

Yes. Loose or missing bricks and chimney deterioration can be symptomatic of a major problem. In many cases, minor chimney repairs done early will save on huge repair bills later. In all cases this condition should be checked by a professional immediately to avert the dangers of fire hazard or structural failure. Learn more about our chimney repair services here.

What is a "chimney sweep"?

A chimney sweep performs three basis functions when called upon to service a chimney system. First, the sweep thoroughly cleans the system. After the cleaning process, the sweep performs a complete visual inspection of the chimney and heating system. The sweep also takes steps to educate the consumer on the proper use of their heating and chimney system. Chimney sweeps are called upon on a regular basis to inspect chimney systems for the sale of a home, to document an insurance claim or to repair a chimney system to bring it up to safe working standards. There are times that even we will refuse to clean a chimney system because of the blatant safety hazards that exist.

Where can I find reviews from your customers?

We love our customers as much as they love us. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service and repeat customers. Read some of the reviews from top review sites here.

Why does my fireplace smell?

Your fireplace always has an odor, but normal draft takes the smell up the flue to the outside. If you smell your fireplace, outside air is being sucked into your house. Read more about how you can fix these issue here.

Why does my fireplace smoke into my house from time to time?

There are a number of reasons that you’re fireplace might be back puffing smoke into your home occasionally. The solution could be as simple as pre-warming your flue or could be a bit more complex like exhaust issues or downdrafts. The best solution is to call in a CSIA certified Chimney Sweep to do a full inspection. You can read more about back puffing here.

Why should I have a rain cover on my chimney?

Rain can damage metal fireboxes and dampers. It can also erode mortar joints, causing the chimney to weaken. For rain protection, a top-quality rain cover is the solution. A stainless steel model gives lifetime protection from moisture damage. Find out all the benefits of a rain cover for your chimney by going here.

Why should I have my chimney waterproofed?

Waterproofing is the best preventative maintenance you can give the exterior of your chimney against premature aging and expensive repairs. Brick is porous. Heavy rains and melting ice fill pores and expand when temperatures drop. This leads to the failure of the mortar and bricks. We use the only product specifically developed for waterproofing chimneys; chimney saver. Learn more here.

Chimney Sweep for Life

When we come out to your home for the first time, we provide more than just an inspection and cleaning. However, we want to be able to service and maintain your chimney forever. We know that consistency in service is important. Based on fireplace usage, appliance efficiency, type of wood, as well as your chimney design and construction, we can determine when we should come out next

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We appreciate their honesty and helpfulness...
“Recently moved to Yorkville, wanted our fireplace cleaned and serviced. Paul and Jim came out, were very professional and friendly, and not to mention, VERY knowledgeable about fireplaces! We appreciate their honesty and helpfulness; we will definitely be calling Valley Chimney Sweep in the future! Thank you”

Douglas M. Yorkville, IL

“We have used Valley Chimney over the years and for good reason(s). First, they know their stuff. Second, we trust them to do what they say they will. If your looking for best service/quality at a reasonable price look no further than Valley Chimney.”

Ansel W.

“They were very prompt, professional, willing to spend the extra time to discuss all details. Definitely would call again and highly recommend to others. Reasonable price for the work done after comparing to several other competitors.”

Ibrahim M. Plainfield, IL

“Valley Chimney has been servicing my home in Oswego, IL for three years now. The first year they recommended a heat reflector and different wood grill. What a difference that made! Now we actually get some heat in the room instead of just the ambiance! They also fixed some issues with brick and helped me save a few dollars by telling me how to remove the gas line correctly to convert to wood only. If you want a pro servicing your chimney, these are the guys to call.”

Unknown Oswego, IL

“It is not often that I can speak highly about customer service experience, but I’m more than happy to write this review. I highly recommend Valley Chimney Sweep & Restoration. They restored my chimney that was crumbling after a different company ‘fixed’ it – and did an amazing job. Great service from start to finish with a 10 year masonry warranty. Thanks guys!”

Sharon R. Naperville, IL

“We had Valley Chimney Sweep out to check out a cracked firebox on a home we were considering purchasing. They were honest & upfront about the condition of the chimney, what would need to be repaired, and what future repairs would look like (the chimney was built incorrectly). The price for inspection was reasonable and if we choose to have the work done, the inspection payment is considered a prepayment toward the repairs.”

Sarah W. Naperville, IL

“Great service and great quality workmanship. Have used them for the last 10 years and have always been pleased. Never been up sold or told that my chimney requires extensive repair. Utilized another chimney service provider and by the end of the appointment they made me feel that I needed a completely new fireplace after only having the house built for two years. Valley Chimney has never done that and has always taken care of my fire place. Would highly recommend.”

Johnathan P. Chicago, IL

“I highly recommend Valley Chimney! They were fast, clean, dependable, professional, thorough, polite & very informative! Completely impressed! And their customer service is great!”

Sherri B. Ottawa, IL
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