What are the most common chimney problems?

• <div><p>Some of the most <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/common-chimney-issues-and-repairs.htm">common chimney problems</a> include:</p><ul><li><p>Creosote buildup</p></li><li><p>Chimney blockage</p></li><li><p>Deteriorating brickwork or stonework</p></li><li><p>Cracked chimney top</p></li><li><p>Damaged flashing</p></li><li><p>Flue liner damage or deterioration</p></li><li><p>Damaged chimney cap</p></li></ul><p>If you suspect you have a chimney problem, contact a masonry contractor for an inspection. </p></div>

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Q: Can I clean up fire damage myself?

• <div><p>DIY cleanup is not recommended due to hazardous soot, odors, and potential structural issues.</p></div>

Q: Can a fire-damaged house be repaired?

• <div><p>In most cases, yes, a fire-damaged house can be repaired. The only exception would be if a house fire leads to major structural damage. In that case, it might be faster and more affordable to knock down the house and start from scratch. In most cases, though, repairs are possible with help from a professional. </p></div>

Q: What should you not do after a house fire?

• <div><p>After a house fire, you should not reenter your home unless the fire crew has told you it&rsquo;s safe to do so. In the longer term, you should not attempt to make repairs to the house on your own. Professional crews are trained to clean up after a fire (including smoke and soot damage), dry out any water damage from the firefighter crews, and make the necessary structural, plumbing, and electrical repairs&mdash;and this is all likely covered by insurance.</p></div>

Q: Does a bowl of vinegar absorb smoke?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Chimney Sweeping pros in Madison, MN

*The Angi rating for Chimney Sweeping companies in Madison, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Chimney Sweeping needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Chimney Sweeping companies in Madison, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Chimney Sweeping needs.

Last update on August 26, 2025

Reviewed in August 2025
Sadly been a nightmare. Saying on the way 10 minutes away and never showed and wouldn't answer the phone or texts. More than a dozen times. Work still isn't done. Told the sub contractors he hired ( promised he would be here the entire time. Seen him 2 times at the most in 3...
Xtreme Xteriors, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2023
Time will tell for us!
LeafGuard
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Reviewed in November 2023
The packing material they used was high-quality and eco-friendly, which gave me peace of mind knowing that my move had a minimal impact on the environment. Every box was meticulously labeled, and the clear, concise handwriting made it effortless to identify each item's contents.
BQ Transport, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2021
It was excellent. They were prompt in coming out to give me an estimate. They kept a good communication. The work itself was done very quickly. They cleaned up after themselves. They kept the yard in good shape. They finished it in only 6 hours.
Noble Roofing and Exteriors Inc
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Reviewed in March 2020
Work was done very professionally & timely by a person who loves his job & follows through with integrity and pride in a job well done.
Force and Partners, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2018
He was timely and kept me informed during the project.
Carpets N' More, Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2018
Quickly remove tree from my greenhouse so I could start repairs.
Nick's Tree Service
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Reviewed in August 2017
Excellent cleanup after work had completed. Also very easy to talk with and communicate what I wanted.
Weaver's Tree Service, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2013
I have never met anybody that was so professional and knowledgable. He took the time to explain everything to us. He said he wouldn't charge anything for the temporary fix on two building and to look at the roof that would last through winter and that he would fix it right. He showed up when...
A-1 HANDYMAN SVC
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Reviewed in July 2013
They called us soon after the referral....but never showed up!!!!!!!
Francis Animal & Pest Control
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Find Chimney sweeps in Madison

Chimney or Fireplace - Clean and InspectChimney or Fireplace - Clean and Inspect - For BusinessClean and Inspect a gas fireplace+3 more

Serving Madison, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Excellent - customer service is outstanding."

Recommended by93%of homeowners

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Shine Baby Shine Cleaning Services

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Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney+1 more

Serving Madison, MN and surrounding areas

Small jobs welcome

Offers commercial services

🌸 Spring has sprung! 🌸 Let us handle the dirt while you enjoy the sunshine. Book our new Spring Reset special! 🧼 #SpringCleaning2026 #ShineBabyShine"Shine Baby Shine isn’t just about cleaning, it’s about restoring your peace of mind. We transform your home into a sparkling sanctuary, giving you back the time to live your life. Experience a home that doesn't just look clean, but feels alive and refreshed."\nTagline: Your home. Our passion. Total shine"Welcome to Shine Baby Shine! I launched this business in 2026 with a simple mission: to provide meticulous, reliable, and trustworthy cleaning services. As a passionate, owner-operated business, I am dedicated to making your home look its absolute best."

Chimney or Fireplace - Clean and InspectChimney or Fireplace - Clean and Inspect - For Business

Serving Madison, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Zack was so efficient and came prepared to do the work. He cleaned up and hauled everything away after he was done, you couldn't tell he was ever there. Very nice and easy to deal with."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Chimney Sweep questions, answered by experts

DIY cleanup is not recommended due to hazardous soot, odors, and potential structural issues.

In most cases, yes, a fire-damaged house can be repaired. The only exception would be if a house fire leads to major structural damage. In that case, it might be faster and more affordable to knock down the house and start from scratch. In most cases, though, repairs are possible with help from a professional.

After a house fire, you should not reenter your home unless the fire crew has told you it’s safe to do so. In the longer term, you should not attempt to make repairs to the house on your own. Professional crews are trained to clean up after a fire (including smoke and soot damage), dry out any water damage from the firefighter crews, and make the necessary structural, plumbing, and electrical repairs—and this is all likely covered by insurance.

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.

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.

The Madison, MN homeowners’ guide to chimney sweeping services

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