Your Local Chimney Cleaning Experts in Lombard, IL

Professional Chimney Cleaning and Sweeping Services in Lombard, IL

At Chimney Bear, we provide professional chimney cleaning and sweeping services in Lombard, IL, helping homeowners maintain safe, efficient, and code-compliant fireplace systems. Whether your fireplace is a focal point for family gatherings or a supplemental heat source, annual maintenance is essential to prevent chimney fires, smoke problems, and carbon-monoxide exposure.

Our CSIA-certified chimney technicians follow NFPA 211 national safety standards and use industrial-grade brushes with HEPA-filtered vacuums for a spotless, mess-free clean. Serving Lombard and surrounding DuPage County communities—including Glen Ellyn, Villa Park, and Addison—Chimney Bear is trusted for its honesty, craftsmanship, and detailed photo reports.

Why Lombard Homeowners Need Regular Chimney Cleaning

Illinois winters are long and harsh, and homes in Lombard rely heavily on fireplaces and stoves. Without cleaning, soot and creosote buildup can create dangerous conditions.

1. Prevent Chimney Fires

Creosote is highly flammable; even small deposits can ignite under high heat. Regular sweeping eliminates this risk.

2. Ensure Safe Ventilation

A blocked flue can cause smoke or carbon monoxide to enter living areas. Cleaning restores proper airflow and safety.

3. Protect Your Masonry and Flue Liner

Moisture and acidic soot corrode mortar and clay liners. Routine maintenance preserves structure and prevents leaks.

4. Improve Heating Efficiency

Clean chimneys draft better—fires burn hotter, cleaner, and with less fuel waste.

5. Meet Code and Insurance Requirements

The NFPA 211 and most insurers require annual chimney inspections and sweeping for fire-safety compliance.

How Often Should You Have Your Chimney Cleaned?

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends:

• Annual inspections for every chimney.

• Cleaning once creosote buildup reaches ⅛ inch.

You may need more frequent cleaning if you:

• Use your fireplace several times a week

• Burn softwoods like pine or unseasoned wood

• Notice smoky odors or poor draft

• Haven’t had a professional sweep in over a year

Even gas and oil-burning appliances produce corrosive residues that require cleaning to prevent metal flue damage.

Our 6-Step Professional Chimney Cleaning Process

Step 1 – Preparation
We arrive on time, cover floors and furniture, and seal the firebox for a dust-free experience.

Step 2 – Flue Cleaning
Using professional rods and brushes, we remove soot, creosote, and blockages throughout the flue.

Step 3 – Firebox & Smoke Chamber Cleaning
We scrub and vacuum these critical areas to ensure proper draft and safety.

Step 4 – Exterior Inspection
We inspect the cap, crown, flashing, and masonry for cracks, leaks, or corrosion.

Step 5 – HEPA Vacuum & Cleanup
Our HEPA-rated vacuums collect fine particles—leaving your home spotless.

Step 6 – Digital Report & Recommendations
You’ll receive a digital report with before-and-after photos, findings, and maintenance advice.

Understanding Creosote and Its Dangers

Creosote forms when smoke cools and condenses along flue walls:

• Stage 1: Loose, powdery soot—easily brushed away.

• Stage 2: Sticky tar—requires specialized tools.

• Stage 3: Hardened glaze—may need chemical or mechanical removal.

Creosote is the #1 cause of chimney fires nationwide. The only prevention is regular sweeping.

Signs Your Chimney Needs Cleaning

• Smoke backing into the room

• Strong smoky or burnt odor

• Black soot around the damper or fireplace

• Poor draft or downdraft

• Animal nests or debris in the flue

• Shiny, tar-like residue inside the liner