Chimney Services » Chimney & Fireplace Services » Chimney Sweeping

For Chicagoland Area Chimney Sweep Services, Trust Leonard & Sons

Did you know that corrosive byproducts and flammable deposits are left behind in your chimney after your fire dies out? These byproducts are acidic and can eat away at and damage your chimney liner, and as creosote settles and builds up, it can restrict airflow and become a real fire hazard. The good news is that if you make chimney sweeping services a regular part of your home maintenance plan, you won’t have to worry about any of these issues.

If you live in or near Harvard, Palatine, Algonquin, McHenry, Dundee, or another community nearby, trust Leonard & Sons for your chimney and fireplace maintenance. Call or book online today.

technician on site with chimney camera

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What Happens During a Chimney Sweep Service?

During a chimney sweeping, our Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified chimney sweep technicians will carefully remove any ash, soot, and other deposits, and leave your flue liner’s walls fresh and clear of debris. Even the toughest creosote doesn’t stand a chance when Leonard & Sons is on the job. We use PCR (Poultice Creosote Remover), which works by liquifying the creosote and absorbing it into itself. As it dries, the PCR cracks and flakes, falling away from the flue liner and onto the smoke shelf or into the firebox, where it can easily be removed during the sweeping process.

Now, this may sound messy, but don’t worry. We lay down tarps, use protective covers, and turn on high-powered vacuums, all of which work together to keep your home clean during the chimney sweep process. When all is said and done, your chimney will be ready for use and your home won’t look any worse for it.

Inside view of chimney before sweeping showing creosote build up

Before Sweeping

Inside view of chimney after sweeping free of creosote

After Sweeping

How Is Poultice Creosote Remover Applied? Can It Be Used on Clay & Stainless Steel Liners?

Poultice Creosote Remover (PCR) is a professional-grade solution designed to tackle tough, third-degree glazed creosote in chimney flues. It can be applied by a sprayer or a brush – application will depend on where the creosote is located.

One of the standout features of PCR is its versatility. It’s safe and effective for use on both clay tile liners and stainless steel liners – meaning, regardless of your chimney’s construction, PCR will work for you.

What is glazed creosote?

Glazed creosote is a hardened, glossy type of creosote that forms when buildup in a chimney is exposed to high heat – it usually forms as a result of negligence in chimneys that haven’t been swept in a long time. It’s highly flammable, difficult to remove, and a major fire hazard – much more prone to ignite that your basic flaky or tar-like creosote.

How Do I Know If I Need a Chimney Cleaning or Sweeping?

It can be difficult to tell whether or not you need to have your chimney cleaned, as most of the chimney is hidden from eyesight. The best way to identify when and if a chimney sweeping is needed is to make sure you’re scheduling your chimney inspection each and every year. These can help us easily identify when and if a sweeping is needed.

red brick chimney with silver cap

Trust Your Chimney To Chicagoland’s Experienced & Qualified Chimney Care Company

When it comes time to schedule your chimney sweeping, trust your safety to those with experience. Leonard & Sons Building Service has been serving Chicagoland since 1966 and we’re certified, experienced, and qualified to get the job done right.

 

 

Ready to request your chimney sweeping or chimney inspection? Call on Leonard & Sons – our exhaustive chimney service list has you covered from your firebox floor to the top of your chimney cap.