Frequently Asked Questions

  • Answer: To determine if your chimney is safe to use, it's important to have a professional inspection and cleaning performed regularly. Key signs that indicate your chimney may need attention include:

    • Visible cracks or damage in the chimney structure

    • Excessive soot or creosote buildup inside the flue

    • Smoke backing up into the home or poor draft

    • Strange odors or signs of animal nests

    • Rust or corrosion on metal components

    • Missing or damaged chimney cap or flashing

    Scheduling an annual inspection and cleaning helps prevent fire risks and carbon monoxide hazard. Never assume a chimney is safe until it has been inspected.

  • Cracks or Deterioration in the Masonry: Visible cracks, crumbling bricks, or damaged mortar joints indicate wear that can compromise chimney stability.

    • Water Damage or Stains: Discoloration, rust stains on metal components, or water leaks inside your home suggest the chimney is not properly sealed.

    • Chimney Cap or Crown Damage: A broken or missing cap allows debris and animals inside, while cracks in the crown can let moisture in.

    • Smoke or Odor Issues: Smoke entering the room instead of venting outside may indicate blockages or structural problems.

    • Excessive Creosote Buildup: Thick creosote deposits pose a fire hazard and signal that cleaning or inspection is overdue.

    • Loose or Missing Fireplace Tiles or Mortar: This can lead to heat damage and potential structural failure.

    • Leaning or Tilting Chimney: Any shift in the chimney’s alignment is a serious concern requiring immediate repair.

    • Rust or Corrosion on Metal Components: Deterioration of dampers, firebox, or flue liners compromises safety.

    If you notice any of these signs, contact a certified chimney professional for a thorough inspection and necessary repairs. These can indicate structural or ventilation problems.

  • Absolutely! We repair fireboxes, mortar joints, and perform full rebuilds when needed due to severe damage. We also build fireplaces for homes that don’t have one.

  • Yes! We work with homeowners, buyers, and real estate agents to provide certified reports.

  • We proudly serve homeowners throughout Joliet, IL and the surrounding communities within approximately an hour’s drive covering a lot of Will, Kendall, and even Dupage counties. Some examples of service areas includes:

    • Joliet, Plainfield, Shorewood, Minooka and Channahon, New Lenox, Mokena, Frankfort, Crest Hill, Lockport, Tinley Park, Orland Park, Bolingbrook, Romeoville, Plainfield, Burr Ridge, Plano, Darien, Lombard, Elmhurst, Elwood, Lemont, Shorewood, and Crest Hill.

    Don’t see your town listed? If you're located within a roughly one-hour radius of Joliet, we’re likely in your area, just give us a call to confirm!

  • Availability depends on the season due to volume increase and weather. Fall and winter book VERY quickly, so we recommend scheduling in advance.