If your chimney isn't properly protected, you run the risk of animals going down into it and getting stuck. As a chimney expert I can help you solve this problem and prevent it in the future.
Check out some of my quick tips so you're prepared to handle this issue effectively!
How to Remove an Animal from Your Chimney
First Signs
• You hear noises like chirping or scratches coming from inside your chimney
• There is a rotten smell coming into your home from the fireplace
What to do
• If you can hear the animal, it is still alive and may be able to escape your chimney. However, it may need a little help. I have methods to help the animal escape safely- call me as soon as possible so you don't have to worry about the next option.
• If the animal is aggressive, injured or ill, it's best to call animal control as chimney professionals are generally not licensed, trained, or insured to handle these types of cases.
• If you smell something rotten, you're probably dealing with a dead animal. I can handle the remains to ensure no more foul odors affect your home.
Once you know there are no live animals stuck in your chimney, it's time to take action to prevent this problem from happening again.
How to Prevent Animals from Entering Your Chimney
1. Install a Chimney Cap - A chimney cap goes over the flue (the pipe that carries the smoke outside), allowing smoke to escape but preventing anything from going down your chimney. Not only does this protect it from animals, but it keeps rain, leaves or other debris from entering your chimney and prevents sparks from flying out while you're burning wood, thus lowering risk of accidental fire damage.
Every chimney should have a cap! Chimney caps come in a variety of sizes and styles with different benefits and aesthetics.
Contact me or book online for an inspection and we'll talk about the best option for you.
• Chimney crown Repair- To prevent animals from getting stuck between your flue and the chimney, you'll need to have a proper chimney crown. The crown is a dome shaped layer of cement that seals the area around your flue to the edges of the chimney, keeping all animals and debris from becoming trapped.
Cost of crown repair varies, contact me or book online for an inspection and quote.
Having an animal stuck in your chimney is a nuisance, but is easily dealt with and prevented with some help from your local chimney professional. Just make sure to act quickly so that critter has a chance to escape, and close any openings in your chimney to keep them out.
Please let me know if I can do anything to help!
