The Importance of Chimney Caps Preventing Wildlife Intrusion
Chimney caps block animals such as birds, squirrels, and raccoons from entering and nesting in your chimney. Nesting materials can cause blockages, increasing the risk of smoke and fire damage. In Tahoe and Truckee, it is common to find raccoons in chimneys during the summer birthing season, while down the hill in Grass Valley and Nevada City, it is more common to find squirrels nesting in the fall, preparing for winter.
Health Hazards
Animal feces, particularly from raccoons, can contain roundworm eggs, posing serious health risks. Thorough and proper cleaning is necessary to prevent contamination. Northern California in particular does have higher rates of roundworm than other areas. Raccoons in chimneys pose additional risk as the feces is compounded, providing an environment for bacteria growth. The largest issue with raccoon feces in the chimney is the fireplace is designed to allow airflow.
California-Specific Caps
In California, chimney caps are designed to be tighter than the rest of the country, offering enhanced protection against wildfire embers and wildlife intrusion. California chimney caps have a ⅝ inch mesh and are taller to catch more embers. This is crucial for areas like Tahoe and Grass Valley, where wildfire risks are significant.
Additional Protection
Birds and squirrels in chimneys build nests out of natural materials like leaves and dry foliage. These blockages can either ignite causing fire or block your chimney stack, causing smoke to back into the house.
Crown Coats and Chimney Repair
We also offer crown coat services to seal and protect the chimney crown, preventing water damage and enhancing safety. A common gap among stone chimneys is between the house and the chimney shaft. We seal this to prevent animals getting behind the chimney. Lastly, we seal holes made by animals getting in your wood chimney housing.
Contact Gold Country Wildlife Control
For professional installation and maintenance of chimney caps and crown coats to keep your home safe and secure, contact Gold Country Wildlife Control.
Let us get the raccoons out of your chimney and protect your home long term.
