Finding animals in your chimney is more common than most homeowners expect, and it can quickly turn into a serious issue. Whether it’s a squirrel nesting in the flue, a raccoon pulling off a loose cap, or birds blocking airflow with sticks and debris, unwanted wildlife can damage your chimney system and put your household at risk. Smalling Masonry has seen the impact these problems can have: blocked vents, chimney fires, trapped animals, and expensive repairs.
If you’re wondering how to keep critters out for good, reach out to the team at Smalling Masonry and schedule an appointment today.
How Do Animals Get Into Chimneys in the First Place?
Chimneys are warm, dry, and often dark – exactly the kind of environment that appeals to wildlife looking for a place to nest or hide. Raccoons, squirrels, birds (especially chimney swifts), and even bats are frequent visitors in Indiana, and they don’t need much of an opening to move in.
Once an animal finds your chimney, it doesn’t take long for things to go from inconvenient to dangerous. Some critters build nests that block airflow, trapping smoke and carbon monoxide in your home. Other pests can fall down the flue and get trapped, which is distressing for both the animal and the homeowner. And unfortunately, if the animal dies inside the chimney, you’re dealing with an entirely different set of issues – odor, health hazards, and insect infestations.
Uncapped or damaged chimneys are the most common entry points. Occasionally, a poorly installed or low-quality cap can’t stand up against the persistence of a curious raccoon or a determined squirrel. Wildlife doesn’t care if your fireplace is gas, wood-burning, or hasn’t been used in months. If there’s access, they’ll find it.
What Kind of Chimney Cap Is Best for Preventing Animals?
There are a lot of chimney caps on the market, but not all of them are designed to keep animals out – and even fewer are built to last. The most effective option for long-term protection is an outside mount chimney cap.
Unlike standard single-flue caps that sit on top of just the flue pipe, an outside mount cap is custom-fabricated to fit over the entire chimney crown. That means full coverage – no gaps, no vulnerabilities. These caps are typically made from stainless steel or copper, so they’re also highly resistant to rust, corrosion, and tampering by animals.
The design of an outside mount cap also includes a sturdy mesh screen, which keeps wildlife out while still allowing proper draft and ventilation. Another bonus is that it fits over the entire chimney, so it offers added protection against rain and moisture, which can erode masonry and attract more wildlife over time.
We’ve seen raccoons rip off cheap, lightweight caps like it’s nothing. On the other hand, an outside mount cap is securely bolted to the sides of the chimney and built to handle Indiana weather and Indiana wildlife.
How Can I Keep Animals Out of My Chimney?
Beyond installing the right chimney cap, there are a few steps you can take to make your chimney less appealing to unwanted visitors:
- Schedule an annual chimney inspection. Animals often target chimneys that are already compromised. A professional chimney inspection can identify cracks, broken dampers, or missing caps that could make your chimney an easy target.
- Keep the damper closed when your fireplace isn’t in use. While a closed damper isn’t animal-proof, it can help prevent a curious critter from wandering into your living room if they do get past the cap.
- Don’t ignore unusual sounds. If you hear scratching, chirping, or rustling in your chimney – even if it only happens occasionally – call a professional right away. Acting fast can prevent more serious problems.
- Avoid DIY animal removal. Trying to smoke animals out or remove them yourself can be dangerous and, in some cases, illegal. Many bird species, including chimney swifts, are protected by federal law. If something’s living in your chimney, you need a certified technician who understands both removal and prevention.
Call Smalling Masonry for Long-Lasting Chimney Solutions
Smalling Masonry believes homeowners deserve clear answers, certified work, and a team that treats your home like our own. Our technicians are certified, trained, and prepared to take the time to do the job right the first time. We’ll inspect your chimney, recommend the best cap or repair option, and make sure everything is sealed, secure, and ready for any season.
Whether you’ve already heard noises or just want to prevent future problems, we’re here to help. Give us a call today to schedule your next chimney inspection!