Animals and the Chimney
One of the most common concerns for homeowners who have a chimney is the constant threat of animals. Chimneys can become a nesting place for all sorts of animals and that can create all sorts of problems for homeowners. Here is a guide of what animals to look out for and what to do when they infiltrate your chimney.
Birds
While a chimney might seem like an opportune place for birds to build a nest, chimney swifts most commonly take up residence inside chimneys. A chimney swift is a small bird that is naturally drawn do dismal, enclosed places, very much like a chimney. These birds emit a loud chirping sound and that will be the first warning sign that these pests have shacked up in your chimney.
But chimney swifts are a threatened species so there are necessary steps to take for their removal. Contact your local EPA office or Wildlife and Fish location and they will take necessary action for the birds’ safe removal. Other birds may also build a nest inside your chimney and most will be less inclined to return when the nest is removed. Hiring a professional chimney sweep can help to ensure there is no blockage or any remnants of a nest that could be dangerous.
Animals
Animals are drawn to chimneys because they provide some warmth and protection from the elements. There are a number of animals that may find their way into your chimney. Squirrels and bats are too common inhabitants, along with raccoons. When raccoons make their way into a chimney, conditions can become particularly hazardous. Raccoons carry ticks and fleas which can transmit diseases. It is also not unheard of for raccoons to climb far down the chimney and into the fireplace. This could potentially open up the possibility of them finding their way into your home. But even if they do not get that far, their odor can linger down and leave an unpleasant smell.
Fixing the problem
There is a sure-fire way to keep all of these animals out of your chimney. This requires fitting your chimney with a chimney cap. This entails closing off the top of your chimney. There is also netting available for additional protection as it acts as an additional barrier. Don’t wait until animals take 8up residence in your chimney to address the issue. Capping your chimney is a fast and affordable service that can take away the work of having animals in your chimney.