How do I keep animals and pests out of my chimney?
To keep wildlife and pests out of your chimney, follow these suggestions:
1. **Install a Chimney Cap**: This is the most effective way to keep animals like birds, squirrels, and raccoons from entering. Make sure the cap is installed by a professional and has a heavy duty mesh screen to prevent even small animals from getting through. The chimney flu and chimney crown should be measured accurately and ordered by a pest control company.
2. **Seal Gaps and Cracks**: Inspect your chimney box, chimney shroud and other adjacent areas for cracks or holes that could provide entry points for pests. Seal them with appropriate materials, like mortar, high quality caulk or a chimney crown sealer.
3. **Trim Overhanging Trees**: Tree branches that hang near your chimey make it easier for pests like rodents and cockroaches to access your roof and chimney. Trim these branches back at least 6 feet from the chimney and roof.
4. **Use Repellents**: For insects and small pests, consider using insecticides or repellents. For example hiring a professional exterminator to apply repellents or the use of green products such as essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus can deter them.
5. **Regular Chimney Cleaning**: Schedule a professional chimney cleaning at least once a year or on a semi-annual basis. A chimney sweeping ensures that any nests or debris are removed and prevents animals from settling inside. This is done with a specialized chimney brush tool.
6. **Consider an Inspection**: If you have recurring problems with pests, a professional wildlife removal company that offered chimney pest removal services can inspect the chimney for any hidden vulnerabilities.
By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the chances of pests entering your chimney.
Smart Solutions Wildlife Removal in Roswell , Georgia offers a variety of pest treatments and wildlife control methods to protect your chimney, attic, crawlspace, basement and all others areas of your home or business. We have been servicing Roswell, Georgia and Metro Atlanta for over 17 years. We offer custom chimney cap installation, chimney crown sealing and repair, pest control, mosquito control, termite treatments, termite bait stations, wildlife removal, wildlife trapping, wildlife exclusion services, remediation and sanitation and more. Keep in mind things that can get in your chimney and home are grey squirrels, flying squirrels, rats, mice, bats, birds, raccoons, opossum, snakes and insects such as wasps, cockroaches and stinkbugs. Check out our website and full offering of services at https://www.
Why do I have wasps in my fireplace?
Wasps may be entering your fireplace for several reasons:
1. **Chimney as a Shelter**: Wasps often seek out sheltered, undisturbed void areas to build nests. The dark, protected environment of a chimney can be appealing for them, especially if it’s not in regular use.
2. **Cracks and Gaps**: Small cracks or gaps in the chimney or around the flue could provide easy entry points for wasps. They are skilled at finding tiny openings to get into sheltered spaces.
3. **Warmth**: During cooler months, wasps may seek warmth, and your chimney can provide a cozy environment, especially if there is residual heat or if it’s connected to a heat source like a furnace or stove.
4. **Nearby Nesting Site**: There may be a wasp nest near your home, possibly under the eaves or in the attic, and they’re using the chimney as a way to explore or expand their territory. The temperature from your living space will attract them in the living space even in the winter time.
5. **Flue Left Open**: If your fireplace damper plate is left open, it makes it easier for wasps to enter from the chimney into your home, leading them into the fireplace. Make sure to check it and keep it closed.
– **Seal Cracks and Gaps**: Inspect the chimney for any openings and seal them.
– **Use Wasp Repellents**: Natural wasp deterrents, such as essential oils (e.g., peppermint), can be applied around the chimney. These often times will not be effective due to accessibility issues.
– **Call a Professional**: If there’s a large infestation or a nest in or near the chimney, it’s best to call a pest control exterminator to safely treat and remove it.
By addressing these factors, you can reduce the likelihood of wasps in your fireplace.