Get matched with top chimney sweeps in Potsdam, NY

Q: Is it safe to live in a house with smoke damage?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

Q: How do you detect smoke damage?

• <div><p>You&rsquo;ll know you have smoke damage if you notice a lingering smoky odor, see soot or residue, or spot any discoloration of surfaces in your home. If you have any kind of house fire, always assume you have smoke damage and hire a professional <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/who-to-call-for-smoke-damage.htm">who deals with smoke damage</a> to assess the extent of the damage and restore your home to its pre-fire condition.</p></div>

Q: How do you get a smoke smell out of your house?

• <div><p>Smoke can be tricky to remove from your home, especially after a fire. The best way to eliminate the smell is to open the windows to increase ventilation and air circulation in your house. Then, use white vinegar to wipe down walls, furniture, and floors. Try steam-cleaning carpet and other upholstered items to remove the smell of smoke.</p></div>

Q: How do you price a fire-damaged home?

• <div><p>Pricing a fire-damaged house is tricky, and it&rsquo;s best to involve some professionals. First, get a comprehensive repair estimate from a fire damage restoration expert. Next, have a real estate agent get you an as-repaired value for the home, which represents what the house would be worth if fully repaired. Subtract the repair estimate from the as-repaired value to get the as-is value.</p></div>

Q: How long does fire damage restoration take?

• <div><p>The timeline for fire damage restoration varies significantly, from a day or two to over a year, depending on the extent of the damage. For minor incidents like a small cooking fire, cleaning up soot and removing smoke odors may only take a day or two. Repairing minor damage might take about one to two weeks. However, a major fire requiring structural repairs, full property renovation, and replacement of materials can take anywhere from six to 12 months to over a year. This longer timeline often includes waiting for insurance approvals and contractor scheduling. It's best to consult with your insurance provider and restoration team to get an accurate timeline for your specific situation.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Chimney Sweeping pros in Potsdam, NY

*The Angi rating for Chimney Sweeping companies in Potsdam, NY 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 Potsdam, NY 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 January 29, 2026

Reviewed in January 2026
Ethan was very thorough. He was unable to do the job as my pipes were frozen. He was very thorough and tried his best.
Roto-Rooter Plumbing Service
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Reviewed in July 2024
i hired them to drop of dumpster not only did they leave it longer than expected with no extra cost they also helped me transfer trash from a trailer of mine to there dumpster very friendly and professional there who i will call always when in need of this type of service
American Dumpster Rental
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Reviewed in April 2023
We have had nothing but fantastic service from these folks. They installed a new furnace and central air conditioner. Signed us up for yearly cleaning on both. They are respectfull and forthcoming. Email friendily and more. Thank you for all the great service.
Bronson's One Hour Heating & Air
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Reviewed in March 2023
Rob and his crew installed cultured stone on a large exterior chimney and around the perimeter of our house. His estimate was considerably less than others and he was on site during all phases of construction. The completed work was stunning! He is honest hard working and always answered his...
Laws Masonry & Construction, Inc.
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Reviewed in January 2023
He came to my home , cut down the trees and removed and no mess . I am hiring him to remove two other trees in the furture. He is coming to do otter work for me right now . Thanks so much., he cares in what he does for people . Lewis Beldock. 315-262-5244
Charlie's Tree Service LLC
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Reviewed in October 2022
Josh sent his staff to fix my chimney which had lost its cap and many stones. They rebuilt it and did an unbelievable job. It wasnâ t a small job, the chimney has three flutes and much had to be torn down a rebuilt with a new cap. The job was/is amazing. And the price was much much better...
J&J Plumbing and Home Repair
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Reviewed in September 2022
Did an excellent job on the tree and cleaning up and stamping I would hire them in a heartbeat again
Charlie's Tree Service LLC
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Reviewed in September 2022
The guys did a great job on my deck and roof repair. Once the job was completed they cleaned everything up nicely, which I truly appreciate. Very satisfied and would recommend.
Dastconstruction
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Reviewed in June 2022
Assembled large pergola. They were hard working, meticulous & very organized. It was a pleasure to work with Murphy's Contracting and I would certainly hire them again.
Murphy's Contracting and Landscaping
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Reviewed in September 2021
Brolex did a perfect job taking down 3 trees. Very competent, professional, safety first and I highly recommend
Brolex Tree Service
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Find Chimney sweeps in Potsdam

Shamrock Maintenance Corp.

4.2(

)

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect an oil-fired chimney+1 more

Serving Potsdam, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They came out cleaned the chimney, took pictures showed me and they charged me a good price."

+60

Response time1 day

Response rate100%

123 neighbors recently requested a quote

Clean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimneyChimney or Fireplace - Clean and Inspect - For BusinessClean and Inspect a gas fireplace+2 more

Serving Potsdam, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Hired them to repair chimney, including replacing missing bricks, resetting mortar and, cementing top and installing a chimney cap. They performed everything to spec and were fast and efficient all the way through."

Response time1 hour

Response rate99%

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

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

Serving Potsdam, NY 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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Reliable Metal Roofing

3.8(

)

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

Serving Potsdam, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 1996

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Robert did an amazing job on my roof. He is a very pleasant person to work with, and is very nice. He replaced my roof very quickly. I have had lots of comments from my neighbors about how good the roof looks. I would recommend him to anyone else looking for a roofer. "

Recommended by85%of homeowners

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Tim Dawley Contractors

New to Angi

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

Serving Potsdam, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2001

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our dedicated team of professionals have over 10 years of hands on experience, to provide innovative ideas and suggestions tailored to your projects. Our services are customized to your individual needs, paying close attention to the details of each project that we are involved with. Please feel free to contact us today!

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Magnetic Services LLC

1.0(

)

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Potsdam, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

At Magnetic Services, we provide dependable garage door services homeowners can trust, built on honesty, integrity, and quality workmanship. Our skilled team is committed to keeping your garage door operating safely and smoothly, whether you need a repair, replacement, installation, or routine maintenance. From broken springs and damaged panels to opener issues and full garage door upgrades, we handle every job with care and expertise. We combine local, personalized service with reliable support, allowing us to respond quickly and provide solutions that fit your homes needs. At Magnetic Services, our goal is to exceed expectations and be your trusted partner for safe, efficient, and long-lasting garage door service. Call today!

4 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Joshua's Handyman

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Potsdam, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

We are committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests and make their concerns the basis of our business.

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Chimney Sweep questions, answered by experts

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.

You’ll know you have smoke damage if you notice a lingering smoky odor, see soot or residue, or spot any discoloration of surfaces in your home. If you have any kind of house fire, always assume you have smoke damage and hire a professional who deals with smoke damage to assess the extent of the damage and restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

Smoke can be tricky to remove from your home, especially after a fire. The best way to eliminate the smell is to open the windows to increase ventilation and air circulation in your house. Then, use white vinegar to wipe down walls, furniture, and floors. Try steam-cleaning carpet and other upholstered items to remove the smell of smoke.

Pricing a fire-damaged house is tricky, and it’s best to involve some professionals. First, get a comprehensive repair estimate from a fire damage restoration expert. Next, have a real estate agent get you an as-repaired value for the home, which represents what the house would be worth if fully repaired. Subtract the repair estimate from the as-repaired value to get the as-is value.

The timeline for fire damage restoration varies significantly, from a day or two to over a year, depending on the extent of the damage. For minor incidents like a small cooking fire, cleaning up soot and removing smoke odors may only take a day or two. Repairing minor damage might take about one to two weeks. However, a major fire requiring structural repairs, full property renovation, and replacement of materials can take anywhere from six to 12 months to over a year. This longer timeline often includes waiting for insurance approvals and contractor scheduling. It's best to consult with your insurance provider and restoration team to get an accurate timeline for your specific situation.

The Potsdam, NY homeowners’ guide to chimney sweeping services

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

See all articles

Nick P. Cellucci
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does a Chimney Sweep Cost? [2026 Data]
Chimney sweep costs can be dramatically affected by the type of chimney, its location, and how dirty it is.
Chris Middleton
•
Jul 15, 2026Jul 15, 2026
How to Hire a Chimney Sweep
Your chimney sweep may not wear a top hat and dance on the ceiling, but they will keep your home safe by providing chimney inspections and cleanings. Follow these steps to learn how to hire a qualified and trusted chimney sweep in your town.
Becca Lewis
•
Mar 6, 2026Mar 6, 2026
How to Clean a Chimney and When to Call in a Pro
A clean chimney can reduce your risk of poor indoor air quality and house fires. Use this guide on how to clean a chimney to keep you and your family safe.
Kristi Pahr
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
How to Hire a Reputable Chimney Sweep That’ll “Soot” Your Needs
Knowing what to look for in a professional chimney sweeping service will ensure you hire a legitimate contractor. Learn how to avoid chimney scams and hire someone reputable.
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•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
Who Cleans Chimneys?
Regular chimney cleaning keeps your fireplace running safety and efficiently. But who cleans chimneys? Our guide explains which pro is best for the job.
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•
Jul 15, 2026Jul 15, 2026
How to Use Creosote Sweeping Logs to Keep Your Chimney Clean and Safe
Knowing how to use a creosote sweeping log for additional maintenance in between your annual chimney sweep can help keep your home safe from fires.