Raccoons, bats, birds, and rodents oh my!
Raccoons, bats, birds, and rodents, will all attempt to take up residence in a chimney at some point. However, all need to be removed as expeditiously as possible.
Birds nests and bat guano can pose a significant home fire hazard. Having rodents and other pests in a chimney can also result in all-out home infestations. Thankfully, Clean Sweep can remove all kinds of pests promptly.
Pests will rarely take up residence in chimneys which are regularly used to vent wood and coal smoke. It is, therefore, more common for pests to be a problem in homes using gas and other fireplace inserts. In either case, though, signs of a pest problem are usually easy to identify.
- Hearing gnawing, fluttering, rustling or chirping, is a sure sign that something has taken up residence in a chimney.
- Foul odors emanating from a chimney or fireplace can be a sign of deceased animal carcasses or droppings decomposing.
- It may be possible to see birds nesting and bats coming and going from a chimney roost in the evening.
In every case, pests need to be removed from a chimney as quickly as possible. This is because pests don’t just pose a potential fire hazard. As well as this, pests like bats can carry rabies and a host of other infectious diseases.
Because many pests pose a direct risk to health, it is rarely advisable to attempt DIY pest removal. Instead, let Clean Sweep know what kind of pests you might be dealing with. We’ll then arrange professional removal, coupled with preventative measures to stop problems recurring.
Various factors go into maintaining the overall health of your fireplace. We know about hazards like residue and creosote, but there is also another nuisance. Animal pests that sometimes will find a way into a chimney. Birds, squirrels, bats, even raccoons will often make nests in the chimney. One of the most common reasons animals get into your chimney is due to not having a chimney cap or one that is damaged. The absolute best way to protect your chimney, fireplace and home is to have a chimney cap installed with attached wire netting.
We here at Clean Sweep will ethically remove these uninvited guests, dismantle their nests and if needed recommend the appropriate chimney cap.
We can also protect your chimney from wasps and bees by providing a top seal damper to keep these pests from invading. Contact our professionals for an appointment.
