Professional Chimney Cleaning and Sweeping Services in Homewood, IL

At Chimney Bear, we provide professional chimney cleaning and sweeping services in Homewood, IL, helping homeowners keep their fireplaces safe, efficient, and compliant with modern safety standards. Regular chimney cleaning not only prevents fires but also protects your fireplace system from long-term creosote and soot damage.

Our technicians are CSIA Certified and NCSG Certified, using advanced rotary-brush systems and HEPA-filtered vacuums for a dust-free process that meets NFPA 211 guidelines. We proudly serve Homewood and surrounding communities, including Flossmoor, Hazel Crest, and Olympia Fields.

Homewood's mix of older brick homes, tree-lined streets, and cold winters makes annual chimney maintenance essential for both safety and comfort.

Why Chimney Cleaning Is Essential in Homewood, IL

Cold, snowy winters and seasonal temperature swings in Homewood can cause creosote buildup, moisture intrusion, and masonry deterioration. Without annual cleaning, chimney systems can become unsafe and inefficient.

1. Prevent Chimney Fires

Creosote is highly flammable and ignites easily when not removed regularly.

2. Ensure Safe Ventilation

A clean chimney helps prevent carbon monoxide, smoke, and fumes from entering your home.

3. Protect Masonry and Liners

Acidic soot and moisture degrade masonry, mortar joints, and metal liners over time.

4. Improve Heating Efficiency

A clean flue creates strong draft, helping fires burn hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently.

5. Maintain Code Compliance

NFPA 211 and most insurance companies recommend or require annual chimney inspections.

How Often Should You Schedule Chimney Cleaning?

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends:

• Annual chimney inspections

• Cleaning whenever creosote reaches ⅛ inch or more

You may need cleaning more frequently if you:

• Use your fireplace multiple times per week

• Burn softwood or unseasoned wood

• Notice smoke or odor inside the home

• Haven’t scheduled a cleaning in over a year

Even gas fireplaces require periodic cleaning due to corrosive residue buildup.

Our 6-Step Chimney Cleaning Process

Step 1 – Preparation

We protect the home with drop cloths and seal the firebox for a dust-free environment.

Step 2 – Flue Cleaning

Rotary and manual brushes remove creosote and soot from top to bottom.

Step 3 – Smoke Chamber & Firebox Cleaning

We hand-clean the smoke chamber, smoke shelf, and firebox.

Step 4 – Exterior Inspection

We check the crown, cap, flashing, and masonry for cracks and water damage.

Step 5 – HEPA Vacuum Cleanup

All debris is safely contained using industrial HEPA vacuums.

Step 6 – Digital Report & Maintenance Advice

You receive photo documentation and long-term care recommendations.