Critters In Chimney

Does the chirping or scratching in your chimney keep you awake at night? Critters in chimneys are a common problem for homeowners in Eastern Pennsylvania. These cute and curious creatures, seeking warmth and shelter, often find their way inside through a missing or damaged chimney cap. Unfortunately, their presence can create a mess, block your flue, and even pose a fire hazard. At Wells & Sons Chimney & Fireplace Service, our CSIA-certified chimney sweeps are dedicated to helping homeowners keep unwanted guests out of their chimneys and fireplaces.

Are Critters Living In Your Chimney?

If you hear unusual noises, notice droppings around the fireplace, or experience difficulty drawing smoke up the flue, it’s a sign you might have unwelcome guests.

Unusual Noises

Chirping, scratching, or flapping sounds indicate animal presence in the chimney.

Unpleasant Odors

A strong, musty smell can signify organic matter decomposing within the chimney.

Blocked Flue

Large nests and debris can obstruct the flue, preventing proper ventilation and increasing the risk of backdrafts.

Visible Entry Points

Missing or damaged chimney caps, loose mortar joints, or cracks in the chimney crown can provide easy access for all sorts of critters.

How to Prevent Critters in Chimneys

Wells & Sons recommends the following to discourage critters from moving into your chimney:

• Seal Chimney Crown Cracks: Cracks in the crown are entry points for curious critters. Sealing these cracks with appropriate sealant closes the door to unwanted visitors.
• Repair Mortar Joints: Loose, missing, or spalling bricks and deteriorating mortar joints create gaps that allow insects and pests to enter the chimney. Replacing missing or damaged bricks and tuckpointing to fill in mortar joints will help keep unwanted invaders out of the chimney.
• Install a Chimney Cap: A properly fitted cap with a wire mesh screen prevents animals from entering the flue while allowing smoke and fumes to escape.
• Chimney Inspections and Cleaning: Annual inspections by certified and licensed professionals allow for early detection of animal activity and removal of hazardous materials.

Common Chimney Critters

Chimney swifts, bats, squirrels, and raccoons are the most common animals found in chimneys. However, snakes, mice, and rats are also chimney invaders, often squeezing through cracks or gaps in the masonry.

• Birds: Due to their small size, chimney swifts, in particular, can easily enter an open flue.
• Bats: Attracted to dark, sheltered spaces, bats may fly down your chimney.
• Squirrels: These agile creatures can squeeze through small gaps and cause damage by gnawing on wires or insulation.
• Raccoons: Their strong claws and hands enable raccoons to climb and access chimneys, creating a mess with their scavenging.
• Other Wildlife: Snakes, mice, and rats can also enter chimneys, often through cracks or loose mortar.

Important Note: Never light a fire to try and smoke out animals. It is dangerous and can cause a chimney fire. Instead, contact Wells & Sons for humane live animal removal.

Critters in the Chimney? We Can Help!

If you suspect critters have taken up residence in your chimney, don’t hesitate to contact Wells & Sons Chimney & Fireplace Service. Our experienced technicians can safely and humanely remove live animals, clean the chimney, and ensure proper airflow. Additionally, we offer expert chimney repairs to seal potential entry points and prevent future invasions.

Contact Wells & Sons Chimney & Fireplace Services today to schedule a visit for your home or business! We proudly serve residential and commercial customers in Allentown PA, Reading PA, Norristown PA, King of Prussia PA, Lansdale PA, Willow Grove PA, Harleysville PA, Doylestown PA, Wescosville PA, Exton PA, and surrounding townships. Let Wells & Sons help you maintain a critter-free chimney and a more enjoyable fireplace experience this season!