Keeping Pests Out of Your Chimney and Fireplace This Season
When the weather starts to turn chilly, many of us will begin to use our fireplaces and chimneys. They are terrific sources of heat and comfort, but too often, they are also gateways for bugs and other pests.
A recent Consumer Affairs report found that homeowners are highly concerned about ants, spiders, mice, termites, roaches, and more invading their homes. This means some of these pesky critters can crawl down the chimney, find their way into your home, and make themselves comfortable in no time.
This is why it’s important to understand how to prevent bugs from entering your chimney and fireplace to keep these uninvited guests at bay.
Pests You May Find In Your Chimney
Understanding the pests crawling inside your chimney is a good place to start. It is best to identify the type of bug you may be dealing with to address the issue properly. Some of the most common pests are:
Spiders
Spiders are attracted to dark, warm places, and your chimney is just the perfect spot. You can identify spiders with their webs, egg sacs, and long spindly legs. These eight-legged creatures can quickly set up webs along the walls of the flue and create a home. They also lay their eggs during the fall season, which means your chimney can be infiltrated with spiders in no time. Spider control is key to keeping your home safe from these many-legged pests.
Moths
Have you ever heard of the old saying, “a moth to a flame”? Well, moths are attracted to light sources, and your fireplace is no exception. Moths will flock toward this warm, inviting space, and you’ll likely find them in your home once they enter. They can be quite irritating and destructive when it comes to fabrics and furniture, so the sooner they’re out, the better.
Mice
Mice aren’t only found in the attic or kitchen. They can also make their way down your chimney. Mice are mainly attracted to open spaces and warmth, so your chimney is the perfect place to nest. Leaving them unattended could lead to a full-on infestation in your home and costly repairs. You can get rid of mice and rats through proper mice control, which includes sealing off entry points and setting up deterrents.
Beetles
Beetles are one of the most common bugs you’ll find in your chimney. They come in various shapes and sizes, so it can be challenging to identify them. Beetles also love the warmth and will seek shelter during the winter months, so don’t be surprised to find them in your home and around your fireplace. To remove them, an experienced Fox Pest Control Technician must implement beetle control solutions.
Rodents
Rodents like rats and squirrels are an especially serious issue when they invade your chimney. These pests leave droppings, chew through wires, and contaminate food sources. They can also pose a health hazard if left to their own devices. Without the proper chimney cover, these critters will make their way inside and cause a lot of damage. The best way to prevent this from happening is to receive rodent control from a Fox Pest Control professional to set up traps and eliminate any potential infestation.
These are just a few pests that can take up residence in your chimney. There are many more, so it’s essential to be aware of the signs and take preventive measures to keep them out.
How to Seal Fireplace From Bugs and Other Pests
Now that you know what kind of bugs are lurking in your chimney, it’s time to understand the proper steps to take to prevent them.
Install a Chimney Cap
The first step is to install a chimney cap, which will serve as a roadblock between the outside world and your chimney. These caps are designed with mesh sides to guard against critters from entering while allowing smoke and air to escape when needed. They are relatively easy to install, so you can DIY or hire a professional.
Check the Fireplace
It’s important to check your fireplace flames and vents from time to time. Make sure there are no holes or cracks that can give pests easy access into the chimney, and if you find any make sure to patch them up.
Gutter Cleaning
Keeping your gutters and roof clear of debris will go a long way in preventing pests from entering your chimney. Leaves, branches, twigs, and other items can create a safe spot for bugs to hide. So make sure to routinely check your gutter system and ensure that it is not providing an open invitation.
Store Your Firewood Properly
Another common source of pests is your firewood. Rats, spiders, and other critters love to take shelter in wood piles, so it’s important to store them properly. Make sure to keep your wood in a dry area, such as a shed or garage, sealed off from the outdoors. Before bringing them inside, you should also inspect each piece of wood for signs of infestation.
Burn Your Oldest Firewood
When ready to use the wood, it’s best to first start with the oldest pieces. Logs that have been sitting in the shed for a while can be more prone to pest infestation, so it’s best to get them out of the way. It will also help to keep your firewood pile from becoming too large and provide pests with the perfect hiding spot.
Install a Door To Your Fireplace
Finally, consider installing a door to your fireplace. This will provide an additional layer of protection against unwanted critters while also helping to stop the drafts that can come in through the chimney. A good quality metal or mesh door will guard against critters from getting into your home and causing costly damage.
These are just a few steps to keep pests out of your chimney. Learning to keep bugs from coming down chimneys is essential to protect your home from costly damage and health hazards.
Contact a Fox Pest Control professional for assistance if you ever suspect a pest infestation. We can provide expert advice and services to keep your home safe from these pesky critters. With our help, you can rest easy knowing that your home is in good hands.
