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TRUSTED BY RIVER FOREST, IL HOMEOWNERS

  • Average homeowner rating star icon4.5
    Average homeowner rating
  • Verified reviews icon154
    Verified chimney sweeping services reviews

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Avatar for SOOT YOURSELF CHIMNEY SERVICES, INC.
SOOT YOURSELF CHIMNEY SERVICES, INC.
4.9(
106
)
Chimney or Fireplace - Clean and InspectChimney or Fireplace - Clean and Inspect - For BusinessClean and Inspect a gas fireplace+3 more

Serving River Forest, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1993

Warranties offered

Credit card accepted

"Al had come the week before to clean ourchimney.  He kept the area very clean so there was nothing I had to do after he finished.  He provided lots of advice about how to determine the airflow in the house, how to convert the wood burning fireplace to a gas one and what the differences are between the different type of chimney caps.  We needed a chimney cap and he came out the next week to install it. 
He is very personable, professional and thorough.  I highly recommend this provider.
"
Recommended by98%of homeowners
Avatar for Chimney USA Inc.
Chimney USA Inc.
4.4(
218
)
Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyChimney or Fireplace - Clean and InspectChimney or Fireplace - Clean and Inspect - For Business+3 more

Serving River Forest, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1997

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"had been having issues with birds getting into the basement of my building. I wasn't sure how they were getting in but knew they would find themselves stuck in either the chimney cleanup or flue to my boiler and/or water heater. I had a wildlife company come out initially and he recommended I have my chimney inspected as he thought that would be the likely source of entry. I did a Google search and came across Chimney USA. I spoke with Mirna and explained my situation and she knew exactly what I was talking about. This woman is incredible. She was so thorough in explaining how and why situations like mine happens as well as knowledgeable about how the chimney system works, the components and what part they play, how to diagnose the issue, options for repair, and so forth. I mean she really knows her stuff! Needless to say, I set up an appointment to have chimney unblockage, cleaning and inspection done and she and her team did a wonderful job. They were very professional and arrived within the window of time given (9a-12). I was surprised because I wasn't expecting her to come but I'm glad she did. They worked with attentiveness, safety, and care as they wanted me the customer to have a knowledge and understanding of what was going on as they moved through the process. I was even able to go on the roof while they inspected the chimney cap which resulted in them adding a protective layer of mesh around the existing cap. The cap appeared to be the source of the problem. Anyhow we explored other options for chimney caps as well as added a cap to another opening that appeared to be an old chimney I didn't even know existed. And just to be clear, it was my idea to add the other cap and not a sales pitch to try and make more money. I wanted to make sure I was taking all precautions to avoid anything else getting into my building. Anyhow, all in all Chimney USA is a great company. I would highly recommend them if you are in need of any work related to the chimney, roof, issues with animals getting into your home, and so forth. The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because I felt they were a little pricey but otherwise good company, good people."
Response time8 hrs
Response rate100%
1 neighbors recently requested a quote
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Chimney Sweep questions, answered by experts

Yes, a bowl of vinegar can absorb smoke. If you want to use this method to reduce the smoke smell in your house, all you have to do is leave a bowl (or multiple bowls) of white vinegar out overnight. Alternatively, you can use bowls of baking soda, coffee grounds, or activated charcoal.

You may need to replace drywall because of smoke damage. If the drywall is covered in soot, you may be able to clean it, but it will require a lot of time and effort. You could spend hours cleaning the drywall only to find there is more damage and it needs to be replaced anyway. It’s usually easier and safer to remove the smoke-damaged drywall and replace it.

Some of the most common chimney problems include:

  • Creosote buildup

  • Chimney blockage

  • Deteriorating brickwork or stonework

  • Cracked chimney top

  • Damaged flashing

  • Flue liner damage or deterioration

  • Damaged chimney cap

If you suspect you have a chimney problem, contact a masonry contractor for an inspection. 

It is generally not safe to live in a house with smoke damage, as even minor damage can pose long-term health hazards and structural risks. While it might seem safe temporarily depending on the severity, you should relocate if there is major damage or visible soot. Smoke smells and residue contain dangerous particulates and chemical compounds, including carcinogens, that are hazardous to breathe and can cause respiratory issues. These signs of damage are not always visible but can have dangerous short-term and long-term effects on your health, belongings, and your home's structural materials. You should not stay in the house until a trained professional from a smoke remediation or restoration company has assessed the damage and determined it is safe to return. Your insurance company may cover the cost of alternative housing while the professional work is completed.

In many cases, homeowners insurance covers smoke damage remediation, but coverage depends on the cause of the damage and the specifics of your policy. Typically, damage from a house fire, wildfire, or even a fire in a neighboring home is covered. However, damage from cigarette smoke is generally not covered.

Before filing a claim, review your policy to understand what is covered, such as restoration costs, replacement of damaged items, and temporary relocation. It's crucial to document all damage thoroughly, including to furniture and personal belongings. Contact your insurance provider promptly to start the claim process and get an evaluation before hiring professionals. Your insurer may also provide a list of approved smoke remediation companies to streamline the process.

The River Forest, IL homeowners’ guide to chimney sweeping services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.