Wildlife Entry Points: Chimneys

Wildlife usually invade homes by passing through chimneys. Protect your house from these animals by repairing and/or modifying your chimney.

You hear noises from your attic and wonder what that could be, until you realize that a mother squirrel probably gave birth to a bunch of babies in the middle of the night. There is a little party going on inside your house and they are not even invited! It can get really frustrating when you find out that other wild animals, not only squirrels, have invaded your house. Worse than living in your attic, these animals can potentially cause damage to your property.

You are not alone in this problem. During the colder months, wild animals tend to move to warmer places where it is more comfortable and sheltered. These animals may find attics to be the perfect cozy spot they can stay in for extended periods of time. Do not be surprised then if they actually mate and breed during that period.

They gain access to your house in many different ways. Some animals look for weak spots on your exterior walls and create holes as entry points. Some holes are small enough that you would probably think it is irrelevant, but note these animals are capable of squeezing themselves in, regardless of the entry size. Vents, soffits and attics when left uncovered give access to these animals, too.

Chimneys are the usual entry points going to your attic. Make sure that you have chimney covers installed. A regular steel screen can do the trick. Screens are available in hardware stores and you can attach them using a staple gun. If your chimney is too large for steel screens, consider installing chimney caps. Make sure the cap is the right size because ventilation is important when to avoid chimney fires. For added protection against animals, steel screens may be attached on the sides of the chimney cap. Whatever you decide to use, secure it properly and guarantee proper air flow.

You can perform these safety measures on your own to prevent entry of animals into your home. But when you are already have a wildlife infestation, consider calling for help from animal control experts because they know better ways to get rid of your unwanted visitors.