With the arrival of warmer weather in Memphis, animals and pests are on the move. Unfortunately, your chimney can be a prime target for them to nest, hide, or find a way into your home. This is why securing your chimney before summer hits is a smart move for any homeowner. The Chimney Doctor suggests you get to know the common pests and take steps to keep your chimney protected.
And if you suspect your chimney has already been invaded, reach out to The Chimney Doctor to book a chimney inspection to confirm the infestation and a followup sweep to get rid of the evidence your unwanted guests will inevitably leave behind.
What Kinds of Animals & Pests Are Found in Chimneys?
In Memphis and the surrounding area, several types of wildlife and pests are commonly found in chimneys, especially those lacking proper caps or maintenance. Here are a few that our chimney professionals frequently encounter:
- Birds, particularly chimney swifts, which are migratory and protected by federal law once nesting.
- Raccoons, who look for quiet, elevated spaces to raise their young.
- Squirrels, which may fall into open flues and become trapped.
- Bats, which often roost in dark, enclosed spaces.
- Wasps, bees, and hornets, which may build hives or nests near the top of the chimney or inside the flue.
- Rodents, such as mice or rats, which may use the chimney as an entry point to the attic or walls.
Once inside, these animals can create blockages, leave behind waste, and even die inside the chimney if they can’t escape.
What Are the Dangers of Having Wildlife in My Chimney?
Wildlife and pests in the chimney bring a host of serious problems that go far beyond inconvenience. A nest or animal body can block proper ventilation, forcing smoke and carbon monoxide back into the living space during fireplace use. Even if the fireplace isn’t in use during summer, those blockages remain in place and may go unnoticed until colder weather returns.
Many of these animals bring disease, bacteria, and parasites into the home. Raccoons and birds, for example, can carry pathogens such as histoplasmosis or roundworm, which may become airborne through droppings. Rodents and insects can also chew on structural materials, create fire hazards with nesting debris, or trigger infestations that extend into other parts of the home.
There’s also the issue of odor. Decomposing animals or leftover waste in the flue can create strong, persistent smells that waft into the home during hot and humid weather – something Memphis summers are known for. These odors are not only unpleasant but difficult to eliminate without professional cleaning.
Are There Other Ways to Animal-Proof My Chimney?
There are a few practical steps homeowners can take to reduce the chances of wildlife making a home in their chimneys this summer:
- Install a quality chimney cap. This is the first and most effective line of defense. Choose a chimney cap with a mesh screen that’s small enough to block animals but still allows proper airflow.
- Schedule a chimney inspection. A summer chimney inspection from The Chimney Doctor can catch early signs of wildlife activity, structural issues, or damaged caps that need repair or replacement.
- Trim back overhanging branches. These can act as bridges for squirrels and raccoons. Keeping the tree canopy clear reduces easy access to the chimney opening.
- Seal gaps in exterior masonry or flashing. Small cracks or separations can be exploited by smaller pests. Professional masonry repairs and flashing updates help keep all entry points secure.
- Avoid using DIY repellents or traps. These can harm protected species and may not be effective long term. It’s best to rely on trained professionals to remove or exclude any wildlife already present.
- Keep the damper closed when not in use. While it’s not a permanent solution, keeping the damper shut during the offseason can act as a final barrier between the firebox and the rest of the home if something does find its way into the flue.
Regular chimney maintenance and seasonal checks are critical for keeping wildlife out – not just during the summer, but year-round.
Summer Is Heating Up – Schedule Chimney Protection Services Now!
The Chimney Doctor helps Memphis homeowners prepare their chimneys for every season. Whether it’s installing a properly fitted chimney cap, performing a full inspection, or making structural repairs that prevent animal entry, proactive service is the best way to avoid costly issues later. Don’t wait for scratching sounds, foul odors, or smoke backup to reveal a problem, get ahead of it now by contacting The Chimney Doctor!