Since so many trees are being cut down for construction and development purposes, wild animals like birds, squirrels, and raccoons are choosing chimneys as nesting spots. Unfortunately, these critters can do a lot of damage to chimneys, and there is always the possibility that one could become trapped and die inside the flue. If you have been hearing animal noises or smelling unpleasant odors coming from your chimney, Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service can help you with both removing the animal and with preventing another wild animal invasion of your chimney in the future. You can trust our experienced technicians to successfully take care of any wild animal problems you may have in your chimney. We would like to answer a few frequently asked questions about this issue.
How can animals damage my chimney?
Not only do they cause annoyances by chirping and scratching inside the flue, but birds, raccoons, and squirrels can also bring insects and disease into your home when they get into your chimney to nest. However, the greatest damage these wild animals can do to your chimney is to block your chimney with their nesting materials. This blockage not only will force toxic combustion gases back into your home, but it also poses a huge fire hazard. Most nesting materials are highly flammable and will easily start a chimney fire that could spread to your entire home.
Are some birds protected from being removed from chimneys?
According to The Humane Society of the United States, certain species, including chimney swifts, are protected by federal law under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which means it is illegal for anyone to remove these birds or their nests while in use. This is why it is so important to protect your chimney from these birds ever entering. Although Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service will have to wait until the fall when the chimney swifts fly back to South America to remove the nests, we can offer you some advice on sharing your chimney with these birds during the summer.
How can Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service keep animals from nesting in my chimney?
We are proud to offer chimney cap sales and installation services that will protect your chimney from birds, squirrels, raccoons, and other wild animals getting inside. We can show you a wide variety of caps that are equipped with metal meshing on the sides that even the craftiest raccoons cannot damage. With one of these chimney caps professionally installed on the top of your chimney, you can rest easy knowing you are preventing animals from nesting in your chimney. We are also familiar with other ways these critters can get into your chimney, and we will completely assess your chimney to be sure every area is protected.
Prevent birds, squirrels, and raccoons from nesting inside your chimney. Contact us at Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service to schedule a free consultation with expert advice about your wildlife problem.