Spring has finally arrived, and while the humans are headed outside to enjoy the warm weather, the critters are heading inside. Birds migrate during the spring seeking shelter for their nests. Small mammals and bats tend to find chimney and attic access for home this time of year! You can avoid the headache and hassle of animal intrusion by installing an appropriate covering for the top of your chimney – chimney cap or damper.
The Problem with Unwelcome Animals
Depending on where you live, the visitor could be a raccoon or possum, or it may be a squirrel or bird. Regardless, it is never good for an animal to be inside your chimney system. If it has access to your chimney, it has access to your home. Once an animal invades your chimney, they can leave debris and droppings behind, which decompose and stink up your house.
They also bring with them flammable materials such as twigs and debris, which can lead to flue fires and obstruction. Finally, animals in the chimney can suffocate and die. Even if they do make it out alive, they often damage the flue liner with their claws and teeth. Avoid these kinds of problems by installing a cap or damper with appropriate protection against animals.
Chimney Swifts
Chimney caps should come equipped with a metal screen which keeps small birds out. The most common type of bird that inhabit chimneys in North America is the chimney swift. These birds naturally nest inside hollow trees—a habitat that has been destroyed in recent generations and replaced with chimneys. Chimney swifts are federally protected, and removing them, their nests which contain eggs, or harming them in any way is a punishable offense. Even trained animal removal professionals such as the team at West Texas cannot legally remove chimney swift from chimneys. The best way to deal with birds and animals alike is to prevent them from getting in, and that’s why we are here to help.
Top Seal Dampers
Many people nowadays are choosing the top seal damper. This alternative to the traditional throat seal damper works from above, venting the smoke properly while protecting the chimney with an airtight seal when the fireplace is not in use. The top seal damper, also called an energy-top damper prevents drafts and heated or conditioned air loss, which saves homeowners money. They also prevent chimney leak damage and animal intrusion!
Chimney Caps
If your chimney has a throat damper, you will need a standard cap to protect the top of your chimney flue from precipitation, animal intrusion, and debris. We sell and install single and multi-flue chimney caps made of durable stainless steel to protect your flue for years to come. Choose West Texas Chimney and Venting Solutions, we can help you choose the right protection for your chimney flue. We provide expert advice and professional services year-round. Call today at 806-358-0817 or schedule with us online today!
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