Chimney animal removal, clean-out and caps in Lauderdale West
Nest material out, damper checked, screened cap on, and the fireplace ready for use again.
- Owned and run locally
- Available for same-day service
- Fully licensed and insured
- Family owned and run
Signs of an animal in the chimney
- Chirping or chattering in the flue
- Animals seen entering the chimney top
- A missing or crooked chimney cap
- Smoke backing up after a long idle spell
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Chimney animal removal in Lauderdale West, in order
Animals inside a framed chimney chase
Factory-built fireplaces often have a metal chimney inside a framed chase. Gaps around the chase cover, damaged siding or openings at the base can let animals into the chase without entering the flue itself.
Animals in a chase can damage framing and pull at material around the chimney pipe. We find the way in and describe what the animal may have disturbed. Repairs to the chase or its cover are priced separately, once the animal is out. Until then, keep any openings into the house near the chase closed.
What animals do to a fireplace damper
A damper is often where an animal sits, nests or tries to get through. Its plate can be bent out of line, its hinge jammed with nest material or its handle knocked loose.
After the clean-out we work the damper through its range and check that it closes fully. A damper that no longer closes lets air, smell and possibly the next animal into the room. Repair or replacement is priced as its own item. We also explain whether the fireplace can be used before the damper is fixed.
Sizing and fixing a cap to the flue
A chimney cap has to fit the flue it covers. Manufacturer guidance stresses matching the cap to the size of the flue tile, and the fixing method depends on the cap type. Some bolt onto the flue tile, some band around the top course of brick, some slip into the flue and some attach to the crown.
A cap that is loose or poorly sized can be pushed aside by a determined animal. We measure the flue, choose a cap that suits it and fix it as its instructions describe. The written record notes the type and how it was attached.
Cap materials and how long they last
Chimney caps come in galvanized steel, stainless steel and copper, among others. Painted or galvanized caps usually cost less at the start, while stainless and copper tend to last longer before rust or wear opens the mesh.
We explain the choices and what each is likely to mean over time. The cheapest cap is poor value if it rusts through and lets animals back in. The estimate shows the material we suggest and why. If you prefer a different material, we price that too.
The animal removal scope for Lauderdale West homes
- Occupancy confirmed before any capping
- Flue brushed after the animal leaves
- Written record of what was found
- Top access planned for safety
What people ask about chimney animal removal
Is a raccoon in the chimney likely to have young?
It can. A raccoon using a chimney as a den may be a female with young that cannot climb out. The plan has to account for them, so nothing is left behind when the top is closed.
What if a bird falls into my fireplace?
Keep people and pets away and do not try to raise it. For young swifts, USFWS advises contacting a migratory bird rehabilitator. Tell us, so we can plan the clean-out for when the birds have gone.
Why do animals keep coming back to my chimney?
Scent, old nest material and an open top all draw them back. Removing the nest material and fitting a screened cap breaks the pattern. We also look for other entry points around the chimney.
More Ways to Care for Your Fireplace
- Wood-Burning Fireplace Insert InstallationFit a wood-burning insert after assessing its host fireplace and full connection requirements.
- Chimney Masonry RepairRepair affected chimney brickwork and joints with materials selected for the construction already in place.
- Chimney Chase Cover ReplacementReplace the chase top with a properly planned cover and clearly defined pipe connections.
- Gas Fireplace Repair and ServiceGet a model-specific gas fireplace service plan for the fault you are seeing or the maintenance your unit needs.
- Chimney Cap Installation and ReplacementProtect the chimney opening with a cap chosen for its fit, attachment and compatible system.
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Chimney & Fireplace Brands We Work With
DuraVent 
Olympia Chimney and Venting 
Copperfield Chimney Supply 
Rutland 
Heatilator 
Heat & Glo