A chimney cap with a mesh screen is the single best defense against animals in Westampton Township chimneys. Install it before nesting season and pair it with an annual inspection to catch gaps or damage early.
Why Westampton Township chimneys attract animals — and how to stop them early
A chimney feels like a cozy hollow tree to a raccoon, squirrel, or bird. In Westampton Township, where older homes and large trees are common, chimneys become prime real estate once the weather cools. The National Fire Protection Association NFPA reports that animal entry is a leading cause of chimney fires and carbon monoxide leaks when flues are blocked. A missing or damaged chimney cap is an open invitation, and even a small gap around the flue liner can let a determined animal squeeze inside. The best time to act is before nesting season in late winter or early spring, when animals are scouting for shelter. Waiting until you hear scratching or smell ammonia means you’re already hosting unwanted guests. Schedule a free chimney inspection this month to check your cap, crown, and flue before the next cold snap.
A chimney inspection is the first step to keeping animals out for good
A chimney inspection is a thorough visual and physical check of your flue, liner, cap, crown, and flashing to spot entry points and damage. In Westampton Township, where many homes were built before modern chimney standards, a Level I inspection recommended annually catches cracks in the crown, rusted caps, or gaps in the mortar that let animals slip inside. The Chimney Safety Institute of America CSIA advises that even a small ¼-inch gap can allow a squirrel to enter. During an inspection, we also test the draw and check for creosote buildup that can trap odors and attract pests. If we find a damaged cap or missing screen, we’ll recommend a replacement before the next rain or windstorm. Don’t wait for a critter to move in — book your inspection today.
Choose the right chimney cap for Westampton Township weather and wildlife
Not all chimney caps are equal, especially in Westampton Township’s mix of hot summers, icy winters, and heavy rain. A stainless steel cap with a ½-inch mesh screen blocks raccoons, squirrels, and birds while allowing smoke to escape. Avoid cheap plastic or wide-bar caps that raccoons can bend open. For homes near Rancocas State Park or along the Pemberton Road corridor, where humidity is high, choose a cap with a drip edge to prevent rust. We recommend caps from reputable brands like Selkirk or Duravent, which come with warranties and resist denting from falling branches. If your cap is missing or damaged, a new one costs between $120 and $350 installed, depending on size and material. Ask about our chimney cap installation service when you schedule your next sweep.
Seal gaps around the flue and crown before animals find them
Even with a cap, small gaps around the flue liner or cracks in the crown can let pests slip inside. In Westampton Township’s older neighborhoods near the Burlington County Farm Fairgrounds, many chimneys have mortar joints that have settled over time. Use a high-temperature silicone sealant rated for chimneys to close gaps up to ¼ inch around the flue. For larger cracks, tuckpointing or crown repair may be needed — a service we offer starting at $250 for minor repairs. Avoid caulking or expanding foam, which can trap moisture and worsen deterioration. If you notice white efflorescence on the chimney face or hear rustling in the flue, call us for a masonry repair estimate before the next storm. Prevention is cheaper than eviction.
Keep raccoons and squirrels out with seasonal maintenance and deterrents
Once animals move in, they’re hard to remove safely. The best approach is prevention paired with routine care. In Westampton Township, we recommend a chimney sweep at least once a year, but twice if you burn wood regularly. After each use, close the damper tightly to block access. Install a chimney balloon or a temporary screen during off-seasons if your cap is damaged and you can’t replace it immediately. Avoid DIY repellents like mothballs, which are toxic and illegal in New Jersey. If you suspect an animal is inside, never light a fire to “smoke it out” — this can harm the animal and damage your flue. Call a licensed sweep to remove the animal humanely and repair any damage. We partner with local wildlife experts for safe removal when needed.
Should you DIY chimney work in Westampton Township, or call a pro?
Should you climb onto your roof to install a cap or seal gaps yourself? Unless you’re experienced with heights, ladders, and chimney materials, the answer is no. Westampton Township’s steep roofs and variable weather make DIY risky. A misaligned cap can blow off in a nor’easter, and improper sealing can trap moisture and accelerate deterioration. The EPA’s Burn Wise program EPA's Burn Wise program warns that improper chimney work can also void insurance coverage in case of a fire. For a one-time cap installation, expect to pay $120–$350. For full repairs, including crown and liner work, costs range from $400 to $1,200 depending on scope. Save time and risk by booking a professional chimney service — we handle permits, warranties, and cleanup.
What to do if you already hear animals in your Westampton Township chimney
If you hear scratching, thumping, or chirping in your chimney, act fast. Turn off the fireplace and close the damper to prevent carbon monoxide from backing up into your home. Do not light a fire or use the chimney until the animal is removed. In Westampton Township, we’ve seen raccoons, opossums, and even snakes take up residence. Attempting to remove them yourself can lead to bites, property damage, or a blocked flue that causes a dangerous draft reversal. Call a licensed sweep immediately — we’ll inspect the flue, remove the animal safely, and repair any damage. After removal, we recommend a full chimney cleaning and inspection to ensure the flue is clear and safe for use.
| Prevention Step | Cost Range | When to Do It | DIY or Pro? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chimney cap inspection | $0–$50 (with sweep) | Annually | Pro |
| Chimney cap replacement | $120–$350 | As needed, before nesting season | Pro |
| Crown repair/seal | $250–$800 | As needed, after winter | Pro |
| Annual chimney sweep | $100–$250 | Once per year | Pro |
| Flue gap sealing | $50–$150 | As needed, after inspection | Pro |
| Animal removal | $150–$400 | Immediately if detected | Pro |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth repairing a damaged chimney cap in Westampton Township before winter?
Yes. A damaged cap costs $120–$350 to replace but prevents animals, rain, and debris from entering. Waiting risks a blocked flue, which can cause carbon monoxide leaks or chimney fires. Schedule a repair now to avoid emergency calls during a cold snap.
Do I really need a chimney inspection if I don’t use my fireplace often in Westampton Township?
Absolutely. Even unused chimneys attract animals and collect debris. The CSIA recommends an annual inspection regardless of use. In Westampton Township’s humid climate, moisture and pests can damage flues even when the damper is closed.
Should I install a chimney cap myself or hire a Westampton Township sweep to do it?
Hire a pro. Roof work in Westampton Township is risky without proper safety gear and experience. A licensed sweep ensures the cap is level, securely fastened, and properly sized for your flue. Improper installation can void warranties and cause leaks.
What’s the best time of year to check for animal entry points in a Westampton Township chimney?
Late winter or early spring, before nesting season peaks. Animals scout chimneys in February and March, so inspecting your cap, crown, and flue now prevents them from moving in undetected. A spring checkup is ideal.