Creosote Removal

Creosote buildup is one of the most dangerous issues found inside chimneys.
Left untreated, it can ignite into a 2,000°F chimney fire, damage the flue, and cause smoke or carbon monoxide to enter your home.

Village Chimney provides licensed and insured creosote removal across Suffolk County, serving both the North Shore and South Shore with over 27 years of experience.

What Is Creosote?

Creosote is a black or dark-brown residue created when wood burns.
Depending on how long it’s been collecting, it can appear:

Flaky or powdery
Sticky and tar-like
Glossy, shiny, or hardened (Stage 3 “glazed creosote”)
Thick, crusted layers inside the flue

All forms of creosote are flammable — and Stage 3 requires professional removal.

What Causes Creosote Buildup?

Several factors accelerate creosote formation:

Burning unseasoned or wet firewood
Infrequent chimney cleaning
Poor airflow or weak draft
An oversized or damaged flue
Smoldering, slow-burning fires
Wood stoves with restricted airflow

Even a properly used fireplace will create some creosote — which is why yearly inspections are essential.

Why Creosote Removal Is Critical

Fire Safety

Creosote can ignite without warning, causing a 2,000°F chimney fire that may go undetected until severe damage occurs.

Better Draft & Ventilation

Removing creosote restores airflow so smoke exits properly through the chimney instead of into the home.

Reduced Odors

Creosote produces strong, burnt-smelling odors, especially during warm or humid weather.

Protects Your Masonry & Liner

Creosote traps moisture, accelerating deterioration of bricks, mortar, and metal liners.

What Does Creosote Look Like in a Chimney?

Creosote may appear:

Charcoal-like flakes
Thick, crunchy layers
Sticky tar deposits
Rock-hard glazed surfaces

If you see shiny, glassy patches — that is Stage 3 creosote, which must be professionally removed with specialized tools and techniques.

How We Remove Creosote

Village Chimney follows industry-standard cleaning processes:

Stage 1 – Brushing & Sweeping

Removes loose flakes and early-stage deposits.

Stage 2 – Mechanical Cleaning

Uses professional rods, brushes, and rotary power tools to clear moderate buildup.

Stage 3 – Glazed Creosote Removal

Hard, shiny creosote requires:

Chemical treatments (breakdown formulas)
High-strength power sweeping
Deep-scrubbing rotary systems
Inspection of liner damage

This ensures the entire flue is restored to safe operating condition.

Signs You May Have Creosote Buildup

Fires are harder to start
Smoke enters the room
Strong “campfire” odor
Black soot around the damper
Oily stains on the fireplace walls
Reduced draft
Black flakes falling into the firebox
Visible shiny coating inside the flue

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an inspection immediately.

How Often Should You Clean Your Chimney?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends:

Inspection once per year
Cleaning whenever creosote is present—no matter the amount

Even gas or oil heating systems connected to chimneys can produce residue that needs cleaning.

Schedule Creosote Removal in Suffolk County

Village Chimney offers:

Licensed & insured service
Complete creosote removal
Camera inspections
Chimney cap installation
Liner repairs & replacements
Masonry repair
Free estimates + senior discounts

Serving all of Suffolk County.

Call (516) 232-5326 or email
villagechimney@yahoo.com.