How to Avoid Animals In Your Chimney

If you own a home with a chimney, you may be familiar with the scurrying noise in your chimney. You hope you’re imagining things, but as they continue to scurry around you recognize a critter may have found their way inside. Unfortunately, animals want warmth, and a fireplace is a great place to find that.

Who are the main culprits and how can you prevent this from happening? Let’s take a closer look.

Common chimney visitors

Furry visitors can come in all shapes and sizes. Below are some of the most common ones.

Squirrels

Squirrels are surprisingly quite resourceful — they can even open chimney dampers, and chew through your siding and roof. This is obviously not ideal as a homeowner. If they nest inside your chimney, you may need special tools or a professional to help remove them.

Bats

Bats serve their purpose in their own environment, but when they come into ours, it can mean trouble. They can carry rabies and since they fly, can reach all corners of your home.

One thing you can do to dissuade them from entering your chimney is to have a bat house in your yard, as far away from your home as possible.

Birds

Like bats, birds may fly into and seek comfort in your chimney. They also may nest in your chimney. Be careful about removing nests because it is illegal to remove a migratory bird during nesting season. It’s best to call a professional if you encounter this.

Raccoons

As cute as their faces are, raccoons are a large creature to share space with — especially when uninvited. Contact a professional if you find a momma raccoon seeking shelter as they will attack if they feel threatened.

How to avoid chimneys critters

The most effective way to prevent unwelcome visitors in your chimney is to install a chimney cap or ensure your chimney cap is in good condition. There are a few different options you can purchase and install.

Types of Chimney Caps:

• Tile Mount – The easiest and cheapest of the options to install. These screw into the outside edge of the chimney flue. While easy to clean, they aren’t very storm-resistant.
• Surface Mount – More expensive than tile mounts but offer much more durability. They’re made of aluminium, copper, or steel and match the shape the shape of your flue.
• Anti-Wind Caps – This is a good option to prevent wind from entering your chimney. They’re more expensive, but worth it if your fireplace is prone to back puffing.
• Custom Caps – If your chimney is a unique build and shape, you may need to opt for a custom build.

No matter your chimney or circumstances, chimney professionals can help to get your chimney animal proofed.

Need a replacement chimney cap before the cold?

Call the team at A-1 Chimney Specialist at 931-967-3595 (TN) or 256-285-4895 (AL); You can also send our team a message online to book your appointment as well.