Animal removal in Ault chimneys isn’t just about evicting critters, it’s about preventing fires, structural collapse, and thousands in repairs. Our team uses high-pressure air, specialized tools, and exclusion systems to ensure wildlife stays out for good, backed by a 30-day workmanship guarantee. Skip this, and you risk creosote buildup from blocked flues or nests igniting during winter burns, common in Ault’s high-elevation homes. Contact us for a free inspection before your next fire season.
What animal infestations do to Ault chimneys (and why DIY fails)
A chimney inspection in Ault almost always reveals signs of wildlife, whether it’s raccoon droppings in your flue, bird nests clogging the liner, or squirrel chew marks weakening masonry. These aren’t just nuisances; they’re fire hazards and structural threats. In Ault’s dry climate Ault, CO, animal nests trap moisture, accelerating creosote buildup the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)|https://www.csia.org/)) recommends this as a top cause of chimney fires. DIY removal attempts, like throwing rocks or using repellents, often push debris deeper into the flue, creating blockages that force smoke into your home. Our team uses high-pressure air systems and flexible rods to dislodge nests without damaging your liner, followed by a full sweep to remove all residue. For example, last winter, we extracted a 12-pound bird’s nest from a Greeley home’s chimney that had been there for three years, the homeowner had no idea until smoke started backing up during their first burn of the season.
The real cost? $1,200–$3,500 for repairs if the infestation damages your liner or masonry. Our animal removal Ault service starts at $299 and includes a free exclusion assessment to seal entry points. Pro tip: If you hear scratching or scurrying in your chimney after a burn, or notice soot stains on your ceiling, that’s your cue to call before the problem escalates. See our pricing for transparent breakdowns by chimney type.
A chimney inspection is… the first step to spotting hidden infestations before they become emergencies
A chimney inspection isn’t just a box to check, it’s a diagnostic tool that reveals whether your flue is compromised by wildlife. In Ault, where homes often sit on dry, wind-swept lots, animals seek shelter in unsealed chimneys. Our Level 2 inspections (the gold standard for infestation detection) include: - Borescope camera scans to spot nests, eggs, or chewed liners. - Physical probe tests to check for blockages or structural weakness. - Masonry checks for cracks where animals enter (common in older Ault homes built with sandstone bricks).
Last month, we inspected a 1920s-era home in Eaton where a family had assumed their slow-burning fire was normal, until we found a raccoon family living in the flue. The inspection caught it before the nest ignited during their holiday burns. The NFPA National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)|https://www.nfpa.org/)) states that 25% of chimney fires are caused by debris or nests, many preventable with a $150–$250 inspection. Book yours before your next fire season starts. Note: If your chimney hasn’t been inspected since 2022, it’s past due, especially if you’ve noticed unusual animal activity near your roof.
How we remove animals (and why our method beats traps or repellents)
Our three-step animal removal process is designed for Ault’s unique challenges, high winds, extreme temperature swings, and older masonry. Here’s how it works: 1. Safe extraction: We use rotating brushes and vacuum systems to pull out nests, droppings, and debris without disturbing the animals (which can lead to bites or scratches). For example, when we removed a great horned owl nest from a Lucerne home last fall, we did it in one hour, far faster than DIY methods that take days and leave messes. 2. Flue cleaning: After removal, we sweep the chimney with stainless steel rods to clear creosote and soot left behind by the animals. This step is critical: Creosote left by nests can ignite at 1,100°F, well below your fireplace’s operating temperature. 3. Exclusion system: We install stainless steel mesh screens or cap systems to block re-entry. In Ault’s open prairie climate, where animals like to explore, this is non-negotiable. Our exclusion kits start at $199 and come with a 5-year warranty against re-infestation.
Why this beats DIY: Repellents like mothballs or ammonia don’t work long-term, animals adapt. Traps can leave sharp teeth or claws in your flue, damaging the liner. Our method is humane, thorough, and backed by a 30-day guarantee. Ask about our exclusion packages if you’ve had repeat visitors.
Signs your Ault chimney has an animal problem (and what to do next)
You don’t need to see a raccoon in your flue to know there’s an issue. Here’s what Ault homeowners should watch for: - Strange smells: A musty, ammonia-like odor after a burn means animal droppings are burning. - Unusual noises: Scratching, chirping, or scurrying during or after a fire? That’s wildlife. - Soot on walls/ceilings: If smoke is backing up into your home, the flue is blocked, often by nests. - Animal sightings: Birds perched on your roof or tracks near the base of your chimney are red flags.
What to do if you spot these signs: Stop using your fireplace immediately. Burning with a blocked flue can overheat your chimney, leading to structural cracks (costly to repair). Instead, schedule our emergency animal removal service, we’ll assess the damage and clean the chimney in 2–4 hours. Same-day service is available for urgent cases. Pro tip: If you’re renting in Ault, document the issue, landlords are often responsible for repairs under Colorado law USA.gov.
The hidden costs of ignoring animal infestations in Ault’s dry climate
Ault’s low humidity and high winds create the perfect conditions for infestations to worsen. Here’s what you’re risking if you ignore the problem: - Chimney fires: Nests act as insulation, causing creosote to build up 3x faster. The CSIA reports that infested chimneys are 4x more likely to catch fire. - Liner damage: Animals chew through clay or metal liners, exposing your home to carbon monoxide leaks. Replacing a liner costs $1,500–$4,000, our $299 removal + inspection is a fraction of that. - Masonry cracks: Roots from nests or animal movement can weaken bricks, leading to water leaks during Ault’s snowmelt season. Repairs average $800–$2,500. - Health hazards: Fungal spores from bird nests or parasites from raccoon droppings can cause respiratory issues.
The bottom line: Our animal removal Ault service isn’t just about evicting critters, it’s about preventing a chimney fire or $3,000+ in repairs. See real before/after photos from homes we’ve serviced in Ault and Eaton. Note: If your home insurance policy requires annual inspections, an infestation could void your coverage, don’t gamble with that.
How to prevent animals from returning to your chimney (Ault-specific tips)
Once we’ve removed the animals and cleaned your chimney, the next step is prevention. Here’s how we protect Ault homes from repeat infestations: 1. Install a chimney cap: Our stainless steel caps (starting at $249) block animals, debris, and even falling leaves, a big issue in Ault’s windy open spaces. 2. Seal masonry cracks: We use high-temperature mortar to close gaps where animals enter. This is especially critical for older Ault homes with sandstone chimneys, which crack more easily in freeze-thaw cycles. 3. Trim nearby trees: Overhanging branches give animals easy access to your roof. We recommend trimming within 10 feet of your chimney. 4. Use motion-activated lights: Animals avoid well-lit areas. A solar-powered light near your chimney can deter them.
Bonus tip for Ault homeowners: If you’re seasonally renting your home, ask your tenant to report any animal activity immediately. Many infestations go unnoticed until it’s too late. Learn more about our exclusion services to keep your chimney animal-free year-round.
| Service | Our Cost | DIY Risk | Potential Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Animal Removal + Sweep | $299–$450 | Partial cleanup, missed nests | $1,200–$3,500 |
| Exclusion System (Cap + Mesh) | $199–$399 | No protection; repeat infestations | $500–$1,500 |
| Emergency Fireplace Shutdown + Inspection | $150–$250 | Ignored blockages → fire | $2,000–$10,000+ |
| Masonry Repair (Cracks from Infestation) | $800–$2,500 | Water damage, structural failure | $3,000–$8,000 |
| Liner Replacement (Damaged by Animals) | $1,500–$4,000 | CO poisoning, fire hazard | $4,000–$12,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
My chimney smells like ammonia after I burn a fire, could it be animals?
Yes, that’s a classic sign of animal droppings burning. In Ault’s dry climate, raccoon or bird nests decompose slowly, and when they ignite, they release ammonia. Stop using your fireplace immediately and call us for a free inspection. We’ve seen cases where nests were 6 inches thick, hidden until the smell gave them away. Schedule your inspection before your next burn.
Why does my chimney in Ault keep getting infested even after I’ve had it cleaned?
If animals keep returning, your chimney likely has unrepaired entry points. Ault’s open prairie winds make it easy for critters to find gaps in your masonry or a missing cap. Our exclusion systems (like stainless steel mesh screens) solve this, 85% of repeat infestations we see are due to poorly sealed chimneys. Ask about our exclusion packages to stop the cycle.
I found a dead bird in my fireplace, do I need a full chimney sweep?
Absolutely. A dead animal means debris is already in your flue, and burning it can release toxic fumes or clog your system. We’ll remove the carcass, sweep the entire chimney, and check for hidden nests or damage. Never burn the remains, this can release hazardous spores. We handle this safely, book now before your next fire.
My neighbor in Eaton had a chimney fire from animals, how do I know if mine is at risk?
If your chimney has no cap, cracks in the masonry, or signs of animal activity (like droppings or nests), you’re at risk. Ault’s high winds make it easy for animals to enter unsealed chimneys. Get a Level 2 inspection, we’ll check for blockages, creosote buildup, and structural weaknesses. Protect your home before it’s too late, many fires start from ignored infestations.