Summer is winding down, and cooler weather is on its way. As the temperatures drop, pests tend to seek warmth indoors. This can cause pests to enter your chimney. But don’t fret — pest control Des Moines company, Pro Staff, is here to share tips on keeping your chimney pest-free.

Common Pests And How To Prevent Them 

Common pests usually found in chimneys include squirrels, raccoons, birds, and bats. These pests are a greater risk since they can sometimes have parasites on them. Large insects and pests can make the chimney more susceptible to fire, cause damage to your home, and create unsanitary conditions in your home. The best way to deal with these pests is to start with prevention.

1. Patch any cracks around the chimney’s crown and exterior. Pests are sneaky and can squeeze into any openings they find.
2. Shut the flue when not in use. The flue creates a vent in the fireplace so that combustion gases can exit the fireplace and air can circulate. It is important to keep it open during a fire, but leaving it open without a fire can allow pests to enter. 
3. Inspect the firewood. Make sure there are no bugs or pests on your firewood before bringing it inside. Check each piece by knocking the wood against the ground a few times to make sure no pests are lodged in. Bring just enough for an immediate fire. Putting the wood straight into the fireplace and igniting the fire right away will eliminate your chances of having pests.
4. Install a chimney cap. Chimney caps aren’t great at keeping bugs out, but they will keep out the bigger pests like rodents, raccoons, and birds. Chimney caps fit over the chimney and are grated so that smoke can escape. They also help keep debris out.
5. Seal off the hearth. Keep fireplace doors shut when there is no fire going to prevent pests from entering your house. You can also get covers for the vents that will seal entry points and prevent pests from coming inside through your fireplace.

Sometimes, you can do your best to prevent pests from entering, and they still find their way into your home. If you encounter any issues with pests entering your chimney, pest control Des Moines company, Pro Staff’s experienced staff can help you get rid of these pests once and for all. Give us a call at (515) 279-7378.