As a homeowner, the last thing you want to deal with is insects in your chimney. Not only can they cause damage and be a nuisance, but they also pose health risks to you and your family. However, there are steps you can take to prevent insects from living in your chimney and keep them out for good. Here is how you can prevent insect infestations in your chimney.
Clean Your Chimney
If you have had problems with pests in your chimney in the past, it might be because something inside is attracting them. Have your chimney thoroughly cleaned and swept once a year. The chimney sweeper will find any problems inside the chimney, such as an animal nest or food residue that may attract pests.
Chimney sweeping will also remove any built-up creosote and other bi-products of burning wood, which can become dangerous over time. Your chimney will be safer and more effective, and you will not have to worry about attracting pests!
Install a Chimney Cap
Having a chimney cap is one of the most effective ways to prevent pests from entering your chimney. It cap goes on top of your chimney, preventing animals from entering. Choose a cap with mesh sides to keep small pests out. Chimney caps are relatively easy to install and are a cost-effective solution for keeping pests at bay.
Replace Your Fireplace Damper
Close your fireplace damper whenever you aren’t using the fireplace. This prevents cold air and pests from entering your house from the chimney. If your damper does not close all the way or was damaged, however, pests could squeeze past it into your house!
Installing a new damper will ensure it works correctly, making your home more energy-efficient and pest-proof your fireplace. Make sure to measure the inside of your chimney before choosing and installing a new damper to ensure the new one will fit.
Trim Overhanging Branches
Pests can also access your chimney by climbing down branches that hang over the top of your roof. To prevent this, trim any branches that hang over your chimney or are close enough for critters to jump onto it. By keeping tree limbs trimmed back, you eliminate one common entry point for pests looking for shelter in your chimney.
Schedule Your Chimney Cleaning from Champion Chimneys, Inc.
When you need a trusted company for your chimney inspection and chimney cleaning, you can trust our team. Champion Chimneys, Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured chimney service company that has served customers in Baltimore County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County, Maryland, since 2001. Our team is trained and certified by Certified Chimney Professionals, Inc. (CCP, Inc.). We specialize in all aspects of your chimney system. Whether you need chimney and flue cleaning service or a full chimney rebuild or inspection, contact us at 443-Chimney today and let us fix all your chimney problems. Also, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.