Ault’s chimneys are high-risk for animal infestations due to the town’s mix of older brick homes and dry, windy winters. Squirrels, birds, and rodents seek shelter in unused chimneys, leaving nests, debris, and structural damage. Indigo Chimney LLC uses humane exclusion methods, not traps or harm, to permanently block entry points while preserving your chimney’s integrity. A single inspection can reveal hidden nests before they cause costly repairs, schedule yours before fall migration season peaks in October.
What is chimney animal exclusion, and why does Ault need it?
A chimney animal exclusion is a permanent, humane barrier system installed to prevent wildlife from entering your chimney. Unlike one-time removals, exclusion turns your chimney into a dead-end for squirrels, birds, and rodents. Ault’s climate, with its cold winters and dry summers, creates ideal conditions for animals to nest in chimneys. The town’s older homes, many built with brick or mortar chimneys, offer easy access. Without exclusion, animals will return year after year, worsening damage. Indigo Chimney LLC’s white-glove process includes a thorough inspection to identify all entry points, followed by custom-fitted hardware like caps, screens, and baffles. We never use harmful traps or poisons; our methods comply with Colorado wildlife regulations and ensure your chimney stays safe for years. Learn more about our exclusion methods before scheduling your fall inspection.
How squirrels, birds, and rodents damage Ault chimneys, and the hidden costs
Animal nests in chimneys don’t just create a mess, they cause structural damage that can lead to fires or collapses. Squirrels, for example, chew through mortar and flue liners to build nests, while birds leave droppings that corrode metal and brick. Rodents gnaw insulation and even electrical wiring if they nest near the fireplace. In Ault, where many homes have unlined or older masonry chimneys, these issues go unnoticed until it’s too late. The average cost to repair animal-damaged chimneys in the area ranges from $800 to $3,500, depending on the extent of the damage. Indigo Chimney LLC’s exclusion service starts at $250 for basic hardware installation but often uncovers deeper issues during inspection, like cracked flues or deteriorated mortar, that require immediate attention. See our pricing guide for Ault to understand the full scope of costs before they spiral. If you’ve noticed rustling in your chimney or a strong ammonia smell (a sign of bird nests), act now before winter forces animals inside for good.
Step-by-step: How Indigo Chimney LLC removes animals and installs exclusion
Our animal removal and exclusion process follows a strict, humane protocol to ensure safety and effectiveness. First, we conduct a video inspection using a flexible camera to locate nests, blockages, or damage without disturbing the animals. If live animals are present, we wait until they’ve left (usually overnight) before proceeding. Next, we remove all debris, nests, and fecal matter using HEPA-filtered vacuums and sealed containment bags, no loose mess left behind. Finally, we install custom exclusion hardware tailored to your chimney’s size and shape. For Ault homes, this often includes a stainless-steel chimney cap with a tight seal, mesh screens over entry points, and baffles to prevent future access. Every installation comes with a 5-year warranty against animal re-entry, and we provide a detailed report of any repairs needed. Request a free estimate for your Ault home to see how we handle your specific chimney.
Common signs your Ault chimney has an animal infestation
Ignoring animal activity in your chimney can lead to expensive repairs or even a chimney fire. Watch for these red flags in your Ault home: - Rustling or scratching noises coming from the chimney, especially at dawn or dusk. - Strong ammonia or musty odors, which indicate bird or rodent droppings. - Debris or nesting material (shredded paper, twigs, or feathers) around the chimney cap or fireplace. - Soot or creosote buildup that appears uneven or clumped, often caused by blocked airflow from nests. - Visible animals near your chimney, such as squirrels or birds perched on the roof or cap. See any of these red flags? Book an inspection right away. Indigo Chimney LLC’s team has handled dozens of Ault chimneys with active nests, including a case on 5th Street where a family of squirrels had chewed through a flue liner, discovered only during a routine sweep. Read our recent update on Ault chimney risks before winter to avoid similar surprises.
DIY exclusion mistakes Ault homeowners make, and how to avoid them
Many Ault homeowners attempt DIY exclusion by installing cheap chimney caps or wire mesh, but these often fail due to improper sizing or gaps that allow animals to squeeze through. Common mistakes include: - Using hardware that’s too large, leaving gaps for squirrels (who can fit through openings as small as 2 inches). - Ignoring secondary entry points, like cracks in the mortar or gaps around the flue pipe. - Skipping a professional inspection, which might miss hidden nests or structural damage. - Choosing low-quality materials that rust or warp over time, creating new entry points. Indigo Chimney LLC’s exclusion systems are built to last, with stainless steel and heavy-duty mesh designed to withstand Ault’s harsh winters. We also check for underlying issues, such as deteriorated mortar or cracked flues, that DIY fixes can’t address. See our DIY vs. pro comparison to understand why white-glove service pays off in the long run.
When to schedule animal removal and exclusion in Ault
Timing matters for animal removal and exclusion. The best time to act is late summer or early fall, before migration season drives animals into chimneys for shelter. In Ault, squirrels and birds begin nesting in chimneys as early as September, so don’t wait until you see signs of an infestation. If you’re selling your home, a clean, animal-free chimney adds value and avoids last-minute surprises during inspections. For homes near open fields or wooded areas (like those on the outskirts of Ault or in rural La Salle), the risk is even higher. Indigo Chimney LLC recommends scheduling exclusion after your annual chimney sweep, so we can assess the flue’s condition and install hardware while the chimney is clean. Plan your fall maintenance now to stay ahead of animal activity.
How much does animal removal and exclusion cost in Ault?
Costs vary based on the severity of the infestation, chimney type, and repairs needed. Here’s a realistic breakdown for Ault homeowners: - Basic exclusion (no animals present): $250–$500 for hardware installation. - Animal removal + exclusion: $400–$900, depending on nest size and debris cleanup. - Repairs needed (e.g., cracked flue, mortar damage): $800–$3,500, often uncovered during inspection. - Full chimney relining (if animals caused severe damage): $1,500–$5,000. Indigo Chimney LLC offers free estimates and never upsell unnecessary repairs. We also provide financing options for larger projects. Check our pricing guide for Ault to get a clear idea of what to expect. Remember, addressing the issue early saves thousands in potential fire damage or structural repairs.
| Service | Typical Cost Range | What’s Included | Best Time to Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Exclusion (No Animals) | $250–$500 | Stainless steel cap, mesh screens, 5-year warranty | Late summer/early fall |
| Animal Removal + Exclusion | $400–$900 | Debris removal, hardware installation, inspection report | Before migration season (Sept–Oct) |
| Repairs Needed (Mortar/Flu Damage) | $800–$3,500 | Masonry repair, flue liner patching, exclusion hardware | After removal inspection |
| Full Chimney Relining (Severe Damage) | $1,500–$5,000 | New liner, exclusion system, structural reinforcement | ASAP if flue is compromised |
Frequently Asked Questions
My chimney smells like ammonia, could it be birds nesting inside?
Yes, a strong ammonia smell is a classic sign of bird nests in your chimney. Birds leave droppings that corrode metal and brick over time, and the odor worsens in Ault’s dry winters when moisture evaporates slowly. Indigo Chimney LLC’s video inspection can confirm the presence of nests and assess damage before removal. If you’ve noticed feathers or droppings around your chimney cap, schedule an inspection immediately, bird nests can block airflow and increase fire risk. Learn more about chimney safety signs.
Why does my Ault chimney keep getting squirrels even after a sweep?
Squirrels are persistent because they can squeeze through tiny gaps, even if your chimney cap looks secure. In Ault, many older homes have mortar cracks or loose bricks that provide easy access. Indigo Chimney LLC’s exclusion system includes sealing all entry points, not just the top. If squirrels keep returning, it’s likely they’re entering through a hidden gap or using a nearby tree branch to jump in. Our team inspects the entire chimney structure, not just the flue, to ensure no openings remain. See how our exclusion works for a permanent solution.
Is it safe to burn wood if animals have been in my chimney?
No, you should never burn wood in a chimney with active animal nests or recent infestations. Debris, droppings, and nesting material can ignite, creating a dangerous chimney fire. Even after removal, the flue may contain fine dust or insulation that poses a fire hazard. Indigo Chimney LLC recommends a full sweep and inspection after animal removal to ensure the chimney is clean and safe. Until then, avoid using the fireplace. Check our safety tips for Ault homeowners before lighting a fire.
How do I know if my Ault chimney has structural damage from animals?
Look for these signs of structural damage: cracks in the mortar around the chimney base, rust stains on the flue liner, or loose bricks. Animals like squirrels chew through mortar and wood, while birds leave acidic droppings that erode brick over time. If you see soot buildup that’s uneven or clumped, it could mean nests are blocking airflow. Indigo Chimney LLC’s video inspection can reveal hidden damage, such as a compromised flue liner or weakened masonry. See our guide on chimney repair signs to act before small issues become costly.