Animal infestations in Kersey chimneys are more common than homeowners realize, especially after winter, when creatures seek shelter. If you spot nests, droppings, or unusual odors, call a licensed chimney sweep immediately. DIY removal risks damage, fires, or fines from Kersey, CO wildlife ordinances. Ivory Chimney Co. uses humane traps, professional-grade tools, and a 30-day guarantee on all removals.
A chimney animal infestation is when wildlife, squirrels, birds, raccoons, or bats, nest inside your chimney flue or cap. Kersey’s older brick homes (especially near open fields or wooded lots on the east side of town) are prime targets after winter, when animals seek dry shelter before spring.
Kersey’s climate, hot, dry summers and cold snaps that linger into March, makes chimneys an ideal hideout. Squirrels, in particular, love the insulation of brick and mortar. They’ll shred insulation, chew through flue liners, and leave behind nests packed with leaves, twigs, and even shredded paper. Birds like starlings or sparrows will nest in chimney caps, blocking airflow and creating fire hazards. The problem isn’t just the mess; it’s the damage. A single squirrel can cost $500–$1,500 to repair if it gnaws through a liner or damages the smoke chamber.
Most homeowners in Kersey don’t realize their chimney is infested until they see smoke billowing into the house or hear scratching at night. By then, the animals have already caused structural damage. The Chimney Safety Institute of America the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)|https://www.csia.org/)) warns that animal nests can reduce chimney draft by up to 70%, forcing toxic gases like carbon monoxide back into your home. In Kersey, where older homes near the Kersey, CO downtown area often have unlined masonry chimneys, the risk is even higher.
If you’ve noticed any of the signs below, don’t wait. Animals will return if the entry points aren’t sealed properly. Ivory Chimney Co. offers same-day removal for active infestations, with a free inspection to check for lingering damage. Contact us for a written estimate, we’ll even clean up all debris and dispose of it off-site.
Myth: ‘If I can’t see animals, there’s no infestation.’ Fact: Kersey’s brick chimneys hide nests deep inside flues. Here’s what you should look for, before it’s too late.
Most homeowners in Kersey assume an infestation means they’ll see a squirrel darting out of the chimney. Not true. Animals are nocturnal and will avoid your view. Instead, watch for these 7 silent warning signs, each a red flag that requires professional chimney animal removal:
1. Unusual odors. A musty, ammonia-like smell (from urine) or a rotten-egg stench (from decomposing nests) means animals have been nesting for weeks. Kersey’s dry climate concentrates these smells, making them harder to ignore. 2. Nesting materials. Twigs, leaves, or shredded paper piled around the chimney cap or inside the fireplace opening. Birds like European starlings will even use old newspaper. 3. Droppings. Small, dark pellets near the chimney base or inside the firebox. Squirrel droppings look like tiny acorns; bird droppings are white and chalky. 4. Scratching or scurrying noises. Sounds like tiny paws running inside the flue, especially at night. In Kersey’s older neighborhoods (like near the Kersey, CO historic district), thin brickwork amplifies these noises. 5. Smoke backing into the room. If your fireplace smokes heavily or smoke lingers in the house, animals are blocking the flue. A clogged chimney isn’t just a mess, it’s a silent danger. Soot buildup and blocked flues turn your fireplace into a ticking time bomb, pumping deadly carbon monoxide straight into your Anchor Hill home. 6. Damaged chimney cap or crown. Missing mortar, chewed metal, or large holes in the cap mean squirrels or raccoons have been digging in. Kersey’s windy spring storms can worsen this damage. 7. Animals entering or exiting. Even if you only see one squirrel, assume there are more. They work in pairs and will return if the chimney isn’t properly sealed.
What most Kersey homeowners get wrong: They think a one-time removal is enough. Animals will find another way in unless the chimney is inspected for entry points and sealed with a CSIA-certified cap. Ivory Chimney Co. uses stainless steel caps with mesh screens (rated for Kersey’s wind loads) and includes a 6-month warranty against re-infestation. See our service areas to confirm we cover your neighborhood.
‘I found a dead animal in my chimney, what now?’ Here’s the step-by-step cleanup process Ivory Chimney Co. follows (and why you shouldn’t DIY it).
Finding a dead animal in your chimney is a biohazard risk. Kersey’s dry air preserves nests and droppings, which can harbor hantavirus or histoplasmosis, serious respiratory illnesses. Most homeowners make two critical mistakes: 1. Trying to remove it themselves. Without proper ventilation, you’ll inhale dust and spores. The EPA the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends professional cleanup for animal carcasses in confined spaces. 2. Ignoring the nest. A dead squirrel might be gone, but the nest remains. Animals will return to the same spot if the chimney isn’t fully inspected and sealed.
Here’s how Ivory Chimney Co. handles dead animal removal in Kersey: - Safety first: We wear respirators and full-body suits to avoid exposure to pathogens. - Humane disposal: The animal is bagged and removed off-site (never burned or buried on your property). - Deep cleaning: We scrub the flue with antimicrobial solutions to kill spores and bacteria. - Damage assessment: We check for chewed liners, cracked mortar, or weakened masonry that could lead to future infestations. - Sealing entry points: A new chimney cap with a 1/4-inch mesh screen (standard for Kersey’s wildlife) prevents re-entry.
Cost in Kersey: Dead animal removal starts at $250–$450, depending on the size of the creature and chimney height. This includes cleanup, inspection, and a 30-day guarantee against re-infestation. Get a free written estimate, we’ll outline the exact steps for your chimney.
Pro tip for Kersey homeowners: If you suspect an infestation but haven’t seen a dead animal, don’t light your fireplace. Burning a nest can cause a chimney fire, and Kersey’s dry air makes creosote buildup worse. Learn how often you should sweep to avoid this risk.
‘Will trapping the animal myself work?’ The truth about DIY chimney animal removal in Kersey, and why it fails 90% of the time.
DIY traps might seem like a cheap fix, but in Kersey’s climate, they rarely solve the problem. Here’s why: - Animals return. Squirrels and raccoons are intelligent, they’ll find another entry point if the chimney isn’t fully sealed. - Traps don’t reach nests. Many nests are built 10–15 feet up the flue, out of reach of most traps. You’ll only catch the easiest animals. - Legal risks. Kersey, CO follows Colorado wildlife laws, trapping and relocating animals without a permit can result in fines. Ivory Chimney Co. handles all removals legally and humanely. - Hidden damage. Without a professional inspection, you might miss chewed liners, cracked flue tiles, or weakened mortar that could lead to a chimney fire.
What to do instead: 1. Call a licensed chimney sweep immediately. Ivory Chimney Co. uses one-way exclusion devices (like the Humane Wildlife Control trap) to safely remove animals without harm. 2. Insist on a full inspection. We check for: - Chewed flue liners (common in Kersey’s older homes). - Damaged mortar joints (exposed to Kersey’s freeze-thaw cycles). - Blocked caps or crowns (where animals enter). 3. Get a guarantee. We offer a 60-day warranty on re-infestation if the chimney isn’t properly sealed.
Cost comparison for Kersey homeowners: | Service | DIY Trap (Risky) | Ivory Chimney Co. (Guaranteed) | |-----------------------|------------------|----------------------------------| | Removal | $50–$150 | $350–$600 (includes inspection) | | Re-infestation Risk | High | Low (with warranty) | | Damage Assessment | None | Included | | Legal Compliance | Risk of Fines | Fully Compliant |
Local insight: In Kersey, CO’s Milliken and Windsor neighborhoods, where homes sit close to open fields, squirrel infestations are 30% more common. See if we service your area or /areas/windsor/.
‘How do I prevent animals from coming back?’ 5 Kersey-specific tips to keep your chimney wildlife-free.
Prevention is cheaper than removal, and in Kersey’s dry climate, it’s easier than you think. Here’s how to keep squirrels, birds, and raccoons out of your chimney for good:
1. Install a chimney cap with mesh screening. - Kersey’s windy springs can dislodge cheap caps. Ivory Chimney Co. uses stainless steel caps with 1/4-inch mesh (rated for 100+ mph winds). - Cost: $150–$300 installed (includes labor and sealing). - Why it works: Blocks animals while allowing smoke to escape.
2. Seal mortar joints with hydraulic cement. - Kersey’s freeze-thaw cycles crack mortar over time, creating entry points. We use high-temperature cement that won’t crumble. - Cost: $100–$250 for repairs (often covered under warranty if damage was from animals).
3. Add a chimney balloon (for masonry chimneys). - A balloon liner (like the CSIA-approved Flexible Liner) creates a smooth surface animals can’t chew through. - Cost: $800–$1,500 (but prevents future infestations and improves draft). - Best for: Older Kersey homes with unlined masonry chimneys.
4. Trim tree branches near your roof. - Squirrels and raccoons use branches to climb onto chimney caps. Keep trees 10+ feet away from your roof. - Bonus: Reduces fire risks from falling branches during Kersey’s dry summers.
5. Schedule annual chimney inspections. - The the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)|https://www.csia.org/)) recommends bi-annual inspections for homes in wildlife-prone areas like Kersey. - Cost: $120–$200 (but catches problems before they become expensive).
Kersey-specific pro tip: If your chimney faces north or east (common in older homes near Kersey, CO’s downtown), it’s more vulnerable to animal entry because it’s shaded and cooler. Learn more about chimney inspections to protect your home.
‘I heard about ‘chimney sweeps who use chemicals’, is that safe?’ The truth about humane vs. harmful animal removal methods.
Some chimney companies in Kersey advertise “quick fixes” like ammonia-soaked rags or mothballs to drive animals out. This is dangerous. Here’s why:
- Toxic fumes. Ammonia and mothballs (which contain naphthalene) can linger in your chimney, releasing harmful gases when you light a fire. The the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency warns against using pesticides in chimneys. - Animals don’t leave. They’ll just move deeper into the flue, causing more damage. - Fire hazard. Chemical residues can ignite, creating a chimney fire. Kersey’s dry air makes this risk even higher.
How Ivory Chimney Co. removes animals safely: 1. Humane traps first. We use one-way exclusion devices (like the Clever Trap) to catch animals without harm. 2. No chemicals. We clean nests with enzyme-based cleaners that break down organic matter safely. 3. Ventilation during removal. Our crew uses HEPA-filtered vacuums to contain dust and spores. 4. Certified disposal. Animals are removed by licensed wildlife handlers (we partner with Colorado Wildlife Control).
What to ask your chimney sweep in Kersey: - “Do you use humane traps, or will I find dead animals in my chimney?” - “Will you inspect for damage after removal?” - “Do you offer a warranty against re-infestation?”
Cost of safe removal vs. risky methods: | Method | Cost | Safety Risk | Effectiveness | |----------------------|---------------|-------------|---------------| | DIY Traps | $50–$150 | High | Low | | Chemical Repellents | $20–$50 | Very High | None | | Ivory Chimney Co. | $350–$600 | None | Guaranteed |
Local note: In Kersey, CO’s La Salle and Gilcrest areas, where homes are closer to agricultural fields, raccoon infestations are rising. See our service areas or /areas/gilcrest/ for humane removal options.
‘My chimney is sealed, but animals keep coming back, what’s the fix?’ 3 reasons Kersey chimneys get re-infested (and how to stop it).
If animals keep returning to your Kersey chimney, the problem isn’t just the cap, it’s hidden entry points most homeowners miss. Here’s what’s really happening:
1. Cracked mortar or missing bricks. - Kersey’s clay soil and freeze-thaw cycles cause mortar to crumble. Animals exploit these gaps. - Fix: We use hydraulic cement to seal cracks and repoint mortar joints. See our repair services.
2. A damaged or improperly installed cap. - Cheap caps (or DIY installations) leave gaps. Kersey’s wind can loosen screws over time. - Fix: We install stainless steel caps with locking screws and a 1/4-inch mesh screen.
3. Animals using the roof or attic as a bridge. - Squirrels and raccoons climb onto roofs, then drop into chimneys. If your attic has gaps, they’ll find a way in. - Fix: Seal attic vents and install chimney balloon liners to block access.
What Ivory Chimney Co. does differently in Kersey: - Thermal imaging scans. We use a FLIR camera to detect hidden cracks or damage in masonry. - Pressure testing. We check for drafts that indicate gaps animals could exploit. - 360-degree inspection. We look at every inch of your chimney, inside, outside, and at the roof line.
Cost of a full re-infestation fix in Kersey: | Issue | DIY Cost | Ivory Chimney Co. Cost | |----------------------|----------------|------------------------| | Re-sealing mortar | $100–$300 | $200–$400 (with warranty) | | Upgraded chimney cap | $150–$300 | $250–$400 (installed) | | Balloon liner | $800–$1,500 | $1,000–$1,800 (with inspection) |
Kersey-specific tip: If your chimney is older than 50 years (common in Kersey, CO’s historic district), it may have original clay flue tiles that animals can chew through. Learn about chimney relining to future-proof your home.
| Service | DIY Cost | Ivory Chimney Co. Cost | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dead animal removal | $0 (but risky) | $250–$450 | Cleanup, inspection, warranty |
| Live animal removal | $50–$150 (traps) | $350–$600 | Humane traps, inspection, sealing |
| Chimney cap upgrade | $100–$200 (materials) | $250–$400 | Stainless steel cap, mesh screen, labor |
| Mortar repair | $100–$300 | $200–$400 | Hydraulic cement, warranty |
| Balloon liner (preventative) | $800–$1,500 | $1,000–$1,800 | Inspection, liner, 1-year warranty |
Frequently Asked Questions
‘I heard squirrels can chew through anything, is my chimney liner safe?’
Not all liners are equal. Clay tiles (common in older Kersey homes) are easy for squirrels to chew through. Stainless steel or cast-in-place liners resist damage. Ivory Chimney Co. installs CSIA-certified liners that squirrels can’t penetrate. If your liner is damaged, we’ll repair or replace it same-day, with a 1-year warranty against animal damage.
‘Will my homeowners insurance cover chimney animal damage in Kersey?’
Maybe, but don’t count on it. Most policies exclude damage from wildlife unless you prove the chimney wasn’t properly maintained. Ivory Chimney Co. provides inspection reports with photos and notes, which you can submit to your insurer. Pro tip: Kersey’s Kersey, CO insurance market (like Farmers or State Farm) often covers preventative repairs if you act quickly. Ask us for a damage report before filing a claim.
‘How long does it take to remove an animal from my Kersey chimney?’
For a single squirrel or bird, removal takes 1–2 hours. Larger infestations (raccoons, multiple nests) may require half a day. We work efficiently, no long waits. Same-day service is available for active infestations. Book online for a confirmed time slot, and we’ll call 30 minutes before arrival.
‘Do you remove animals in winter? Kersey gets cold, and I don’t want to wait.’
Yes, winter is the worst time for infestations because animals seek shelter. We operate year-round, even in Kersey, CO’s sub-zero temps. Pro tip: If you hear scratching in December, don’t use your fireplace, burning a nest can cause a chimney fire. We’ll remove the animal and inspect for damage same-day if needed.