If you’ve spotted animal droppings, nests, or strange smells in your chimney, act fast. Englewood’s dry climate and older homes make chimneys prime targets for squirrels, raccoons, and birds, especially before winter. The safest approach is to call a licensed chimney sweep immediately to remove the animal, assess structural damage, and clean the flue. Never attempt removal yourself; trapped wildlife can cause bites, scratches, or a chimney fire from disturbed nesting materials. Book your Englewood chimney sweep now to avoid the fall rush and ensure your fireplace is ready for Denver’s first freeze.
1. What is chimney animal removal, and why it’s an emergency in Englewood
A chimney animal removal is the process of safely evicting wildlife (squirrels, raccoons, birds, or even bats) that have taken up residence in your chimney, then cleaning out their debris, repairing any damage, and ensuring the flue is clear for safe wood burning. In Englewood, where older brick homes and dry climates create ideal nesting conditions, this isn’t just a nuisance, it’s a fire hazard. The Chimney Safety Institute of America the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)|https://www.csia.org/)) warns that animal nests can block airflow, trap creosote (a highly flammable chimney tar), and even ignite during a fireplace burn. If you’ve heard scratching, seen droppings, or smelled a musky odor near your chimney, assume an animal is present and act within 48 hours to prevent further damage.
2. The 3 most common animals in Denver chimneys, and how they damage yours
Denver’s urban and suburban areas attract three primary chimney invaders: squirrels, raccoons, and birds. Squirrels chew through mortar and flue liners to build nests, creating gaps that let cold air in and carbon monoxide out. Raccoons are worse, they tear apart chimney caps, dislodge bricks, and leave behind feces that corrode metal and masonry over time. Birds, especially starlings or sparrows, pack chimneys with twigs and nesting material, clogging the flue entirely. In Englewood’s older neighborhoods near the Platte River, we’ve seen raccoons dismantle entire chimney caps in under a week. If you’ve noticed missing bricks, torn screens, or piles of chewed wood near your chimney, schedule a chimney sweep chimney sweep near me immediately to assess the damage before winter sets in.
3. Never try DIY animal removal, here’s why (and what to do instead)
DIY animal removal is dangerous. Trapped animals will fight, scratch, or bite when cornered, and disturbing their nest can cause them to spray urine, feces, or even carry diseases like rabies or hantavirus. The National Fire Protection Association the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)|https://www.nfpa.org/)) explicitly warns against using traps, smoke, or loud noises, these methods can stress the animal into biting or trigger a fire if nesting materials ignite. Instead, call a licensed chimney sweep in Englewood who uses humane, one-way exclusion devices to safely guide the animal out. We also inspect for structural damage, repair mortar joints, and clean the flue to remove all traces of nesting debris. Pro tip: If you’ve already tried DIY methods, wait 24–48 hours before booking a sweep to avoid stressing the animal further.
4. How to spot hidden chimney animal damage before it becomes costly
Animal damage isn’t always obvious. Start by examining your chimney cap and crown (the top of the chimney) for tears, chewed edges, or missing sections, common raccoon work. Look for dark stains or streaks on the bricks; these are urine trails left by nesting animals. Inside the fireplace, check for: - Nesting material: Twigs, leaves, or shredded paper packed into the flue. - Droppings: Pellets or smears near the damper or smoke shelf. - Scratching marks: Claw marks on the flue liner or smoke chamber. - Unusual odors: A strong, musky smell even after cleaning the fireplace. In Englewood’s dry climate, animal urine can also accelerate masonry deterioration. If you’ve noticed cracks in the brickwork or crumbling mortar, these may be from both animal activity and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles. A chimney inspection chimney sweep Denver will catch these issues before they lead to a full rebuild, saving you thousands in repairs.
5. The right time to book chimney animal removal in Englewood (before Denver’s freeze)
Timing is critical. Book your chimney animal removal between late August and early October to avoid the fall rush when demand spikes and prices climb. Denver’s first freeze typically hits in late October or November, and once temperatures drop below freezing, animals are less likely to leave their nests voluntarily. Waiting until winter also means you’ll miss the chance to repair damage before the holiday fireplace season, when chimneys see heavy use. Pro tip: If you’re unsure whether an animal is present, schedule a Level 2 chimney inspection chimney sweep cost Denver, this includes a video scan to confirm blockages or damage without disturbing the animal. Englewood homeowners near the I-70 corridor often wait until after Labor Day to book, but we recommend acting sooner to secure your spot before the holiday rush.
6. What to expect during a professional chimney animal removal (and costs in Englewood)
A professional chimney animal removal in Englewood follows these steps: 1. Humane exclusion: The technician uses one-way devices to guide the animal out safely. 2. Damage assessment: They inspect the flue, liner, and masonry for tears, corrosion, or structural weaknesses. 3. Cleaning: The flue is brushed out to remove nesting debris, creosote buildup, and soot. 4. Repairs: Missing bricks, torn caps, or damaged liners are fixed on-site. 5. Preventative measures: Installing a chimney cap with a mesh screen (to block animals but allow smoke to escape) or stainless steel liner if the flue is compromised. Costs vary based on the animal, damage, and repairs needed. A basic squirrel removal and cleaning in Englewood typically runs $250–$450, while raccoon damage or a full liner replacement can reach $800–$1,500. Always ask for a free estimate chimney sweep near me and verify the technician is licensed and insured. Denver requires chimney sweeps to be certified by the CSIA or another recognized body. Avoid companies that quote flat rates without an inspection; hidden damage can turn a simple removal into a costly repair.
7. How to prevent future chimney animal invasions in Denver’s climate
Denver’s dry, windy seasons and older brick homes make chimneys prime targets for wildlife. To keep animals out: - Install a chimney cap with a fine mesh screen (1/4-inch or smaller) to block squirrels and birds while allowing smoke to escape. Stainless steel caps last longer in Englewood’s fluctuating temperatures. - Seal gaps around the chimney base with high-temperature caulk or mortar. - Schedule annual chimney inspections chimney sweep Denver before peak season to catch early signs of animal activity or damage. - Use a spark arrestor on wood-burning stoves to deter animals seeking shelter in warm ashes. - Trim tree branches near your roof to remove easy access points for squirrels and raccoons. Englewood’s proximity to the Platte River also means higher wildlife activity. If you’ve had repeated animal issues, consider a chimney liner upgrade chimney sweep Englewood, modern stainless steel liners are animal-proof and improve draft efficiency. The EPA’s Burn Wise program the EPA's Burn Wise program recommends these upgrades for homes in high-wildlife areas like Denver’s suburbs.
| Animal | Typical Damage | Removal + Cleaning Cost | Repair Cost (if needed) | Best Time to Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Squirrel | Chewed mortar, flue liner scratches, nesting debris | $250–$400 | $100–$300 (minor) | Late August–September |
| Raccoon | Torn chimney cap, displaced bricks, heavy urine damage | $400–$700 | $500–$1,500 (moderate-severe) | July–early October |
| Birds (starlings, sparrows) | Clogged flue with twigs/nesting material, light soot buildup | $200–$350 | $50–$200 (cleaning only) | May–June (before nesting season) |
| Bats | Guano buildup, structural corrosion from urine | $350–$600 | $400–$1,200 (liner replacement) | Spring or fall (avoid hibernation season) |
Frequently Asked Questions
My chimney smells like ammonia after a fire, could it be an animal?
Yes, that’s a strong sign. Ammonia smells come from animal urine, often raccoons or squirrels, which can corrode your chimney liner over time. Book a chimney inspection chimney sweep near me immediately, urine also accelerates creosote buildup, increasing fire risk. Never burn fires with an animal present; the heat can stress the animal into biting or cause nesting materials to ignite.
Why does my Englewood chimney keep getting animals even after repairs?
If animals keep returning, your chimney likely has gaps the cap isn’t covering. Check for: - Missing or damaged bricks near the crown. - Loose mortar joints where animals can squeeze in. - A poorly fitted cap with large openings. A Level 2 inspection chimney sweep Denver will reveal hidden entry points. We often recommend upgrading to a stainless steel liner with a tight-fitting cap, this is the gold standard for Denver’s wildlife-heavy areas. Also, trim overhanging tree branches within 10 feet of your roof to remove easy access.
Can I still use my fireplace after animal removal but before repairs?
No, never use your fireplace until a professional confirms the flue is clear and structurally sound. Animal debris, urine, or damaged liners can block airflow, trap carbon monoxide, or even cause a chimney fire. The NFPA the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)|https://www.nfpa.org/)) requires a full cleaning and inspection after animal removal. If you’re in a hurry for winter warmth, rent a safe, vented propane heater as a temporary solution while repairs are completed.
How can I tell if my chimney damage comes from critters or just wear and tear?
Animal damage is usually localized and messy. Look for: - Chewed mortar or bricks (squirrels leave jagged edges; raccoons tear large chunks). - Nesting material (twigs, paper, or feathers in the flue). - Urine stains (dark streaks on bricks or soot buildup). Older chimneys may have general crumbling or efflorescence (white mineral deposits), but these are uniform, not clustered around entry points. A video inspection chimney sweep Englewood will show you exactly what’s wrong, animals leave clear signs, while age-related wear is harder to pinpoint without a pro.