Chimney Sweep F.A.Q.

At Chimney Bear, we believe in keeping your home safe, warm, and efficient with expert chimney services in Burr Ridge and surrounding areas. Whether you need a chimney inspection, sweep, or fireplace repair, our certified professionals are here to help. Below, we answer the most common questions about chimney maintenance, safety, and repairs so you know exactly what to expect when working with us!

  • The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends a yearly chimney inspection to check for creosote buildup, structural damage, or obstructions that could lead to chimney fires or carbon monoxide leaks. If you use your fireplace, wood stove, or furnace frequently, scheduling a chimney sweep every 6-12 months is best to ensure optimal performance and safety.

    Chimney Bear offers annual maintenance plans, so you never have to worry about when your next chimney service is due!

  • Creosote is a highly flammable substance that builds up inside your chimney flue when you burn wood. If left unchecked, it can ignite and cause a chimney fire. Our certified chimney sweeps at Chimney Bear specialize in safely removing creosote, reducing fire risks, and keeping your fireplace venting correctly. Schedule a professional chimney cleaning with Chimney Bear to eliminate creosote and keep your home safe!

  • Look for these warning signs that indicate it's time to schedule a chimney service with Chimney Bear:

    • Strong, smoky odors coming from your fireplace

    • Excessive soot or black stains around the heart

    • Cracked bricks or deteriorating mortar joints

    • Smoke entering your home instead of venting properly

    • Draft issues or difficulty lighting a fire

    If you notice any of these issues, call Chimney Bear today! We'll send one of our certified chimney inspectors to assess your system.


  • A standard chimney inspection with Chimney Bear takes about 45-60 minutes, while a chimney sweep typically takes one to two hours, depending on the level of buildup. If we find damage that requires a Level 2 camera inspection, the process may take longer.

    We offer online scheduling so you can book your chimney service at your convenience!

  • A chimney cap is an essential chimney upgrade that prevents:

    • Rainwater leaks that cause chimney damage

    • Birds, squirrels, and raccoons from nesting in your chimney

    • Debris and leaves from blocking the flue

    • Sparks and embers from escaping onto your roof

    At Chimney Bear, we install stainless-steel chimney caps that provide long-lasting protection and improve fireplace efficiency

  • While some homeowners attempt DIY cleaning, professional chimney sweeps have the equipment, training, and safety measures to thoroughly clean without damaging your flue liner or chimney structure. description

    Avoid the risk and let Chimney Bear handle it! Our expert sweeps use HEPA vacuums, rotary brushes, and video inspections to do the job correctly.

  • When hiring a chimney company, look for:

    • Certifications – Chimney Bear is a certified member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG).

    • Experience – We've been helping homeowners in Burr Ridge and beyond for years.

    • Customer Reviews – Check our 5-star ratings from happy clients!

    • Insurance & Licensing – We are fully insured and licensed for your protection.

    Chimney Bear is proud to be your trusted, local chimney service provider!

  • To keep your home safe, follow these chimney safety tips:

    • Schedule annual inspections & chimney sweeps

    • Burn only dry, seasoned hardwood to minimize creosote buildup

    • Install a chimney cap to keep out debris and animals

    • Use carbon monoxide detectors to monitor air quality

    • Fix masonry cracks and flue liner damage before they get worse

  • Yes! Chimney Bear offers complete chimney care, including:

    • Chimney sweeping & inspections

    • Chimney repairs & waterproofing

    • Flue liner repair & replacement

    • Tuckpointing & masonry restoration

    • Dryer vent cleaning & gutter maintenance

    We are certified in two advanced flue repair methods to provide the best solutions for your chimney system.

  • At Chimney Bear, we offer comprehensive paid inspections to ensure accurate chimney repair estimates. Since chimney issues aren't always visible from the outside, a thorough evaluation is necessary to provide the most effective solution.

    Book your inspection today through our online scheduling system or call us directly!