Des Moines - Chimney Caps Save Animals, Birds and Homes from Damage
Crawling on a roof and installing a chimney cap is probably the last thing you are thinking of doing during this cold, icy Des Moines winter. Chimney caps, however, are extremely important to the safety of animals and birds, to the safety of your home and to the maintenance of your chimney.
Animals, including squirrels and bats have a tendency to fall into uncapped chimneys along with most birds, and become trapped. Raccoons on the other hand are capable of climbing in and out of the chimney and therefore will live in a chimney. Also, a chimney swift, which is a migratory bird, is the only bird capable of flying vertically and is able to fly in and out of the chimney. To them, a chimney resembles a hollow tree, which is their typical habitat. Recently, our Omaha Critter Control location rescued a Great Horned Owl after it became stuck in an uncovered furnace pipe. When an animal or bird is stuck in a chimney they cannot fly or crawl out. Sadly, this leads to days of discomfort and malnutrition before the animal dies.
Beyond the safety of wildlife, chimney caps are good for the protection of your home and chimney. Without a cap, rain can cause unpleasant odors, damage to flue walls and a fireplace or stovepipe may damage the chimney crown. The chimney cap also helps eliminate downwind drafts from entering into the home or embers from flying out and possibly damaging the roof.
Many people are concerned that a chimney cap will not allow dangerous gases to escape. This is a myth, as it will allow for the gases to escape while ensuring it doesn't become plugged. At Critter Control we always recommend a chimney cap after removing an animal or bird from a flue. Even if you have never experienced an issue with animals or birds stuck in the chimney we recommend taking precautionary measures by installing a chimney cap or replacing a current one that’s very old and potentially rusted.
Our Critter Control specialists will install a stainless steel cap, which is resistant to rust. Previously, many chimney caps were galvanized metal and have rusted. Our professionals insure that this winter, and as spring approaches, you will have a properly installed chimney cap made of the best material.
