If you hear scratching, see nests, or smell ammonia in your Broomfield fireplace, animals are already inside. Never attempt removal yourself. Broomfield’s dry climate turns animal nests into fire hazards fast. Call a licensed chimney sweep to safely remove them, clean creosote buildup, and install a cap to block future intruders. DIY traps often fail and worsen the problem.
A chimney inspection is a thorough check of your chimney’s structure, liner, and flue, inside and out, to spot damage, blockages, or hidden hazards like animal nests. In Broomfield, where squirrels and birds target older brick chimneys, an inspection catches problems before they become fires.
Broomfield’s mix of older brick homes and modern developments creates prime real estate for squirrels, birds, and even raccoons. These animals don’t just nest, they shred insulation, chew through flue liners, and leave behind ammonia-smelling droppings that corrode metal. The Chimney Safety Institute of America the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)|https://www.csia.org/)) warns that animal nests can reduce your chimney’s draft by up to 70%, forcing smoke into your home. If you’ve noticed any of the signs below, skip the DIY traps and call a chimney sweep. Broomfield’s dry climate means nests dry out fast, turning into kindling for creosote fires.
Why inspections matter in Broomfield: - Older homes near open spaces (like the areas around Broomfield’s downtown or the foothills) see more animal activity. - Birds like starlings and sparrows build nests in flues as small as 4 inches wide, smaller than a soda can. - Squirrels chew through mortar joints, creating entry points for future intruders.
A professional inspection uses a camera to spot nests, blockages, or damage before removal. Broomfield chimney sweep crews also check for creosote buildup left behind by animals, which is highly flammable. If you’ve heard scratching in the flue or seen debris around the chimney cap, assume animals are inside, and assume they’ve already caused damage.
5 questions to ask before hiring a Broomfield chimney sweep for animal removal
Not all chimney sweeps handle animal removals the same way. In Broomfield, where crews often deal with squirrels in brick chimneys or birds in metal flues, ask these questions to avoid costly mistakes:
1. ‘Do you use humane removal methods, or will you just blast animals out?’ Many crews in Broomfield use high-pressure air to force animals out, but this can leave them injured or dead in your flue. A licensed sweep should use one-way doors or live traps to remove them safely, then clean the flue thoroughly. The National Fire Protection Association the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)|https://www.nfpa.org/)) recommends humane removal to avoid fines or liability issues.
2. ‘Will you check for and repair damage caused by the animals?’ Squirrels chew through flue liners, and birds shred insulation. Ask if the sweep includes patching holes or replacing damaged sections. In Broomfield, where older homes have unlined chimneys, this step is critical to prevent future fires.
3. ‘Do you install chimney caps to prevent future animal entries?’ A cap isn’t just a one-time fix, it’s a long-term solution. Broomfield’s wind patterns (especially near open areas like the Broomfield Airport) can dislodge cheap caps. Ask if the sweep uses heavy-duty, wind-rated caps with mesh small enough to block squirrels (1/2-inch mesh) but large enough to allow smoke to escape.
4. ‘How do you handle creosote buildup from animal nests?’ Animal nests trap moisture, accelerating creosote formation. A sweep should clean the flue with a rotary brush or vacuum system to remove all debris. If the nest is large, they may need to break it down manually, ask if this is included in the price.
5. ‘Are you licensed, insured, and bonded for wildlife removal?’ Some insurance companies deny claims if an unlicensed crew causes damage during removal. In Colorado, wildlife removal requires a specific permit for certain species. A reputable Broomfield sweep will have all certifications and can provide proof of insurance.
Pro tip: If you’ve seen animals near your chimney, schedule the removal before they have a chance to nest. Broomfield’s spring and fall are peak times for animal activity, don’t wait until winter when nests become fire hazards.
How to tell if squirrels are in your Broomfield chimney (and what to do next)
Squirrels are the #1 culprit in Broomfield chimney animal infestations. They’re drawn to the dry, insulated space of a flue and can squeeze through gaps as small as 2 inches. Here’s how to spot them, and what to do:
Signs squirrels are in your chimney: - Scratching or scampering noises coming from the flue, especially at dawn or dusk. Squirrels are most active during these times. - Shredded nest material (twigs, leaves, or insulation) around the chimney cap or in your fireplace. - Ammonia or urine odor, squirrels mark their territory, and the smell lingers in dry Broomfield air. - Soot or debris in your fireplace that looks like it was pushed out by an animal. - Visible entry holes in the mortar joints or crown of your chimney. Squirrels chew through weak spots.
What NOT to do: - Don’t use DIY traps. Many Broomfield homeowners try humane traps, but squirrels often get stuck or injured inside the flue. The EPA the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency warns that improper handling can spread diseases like leptospirosis. - Don’t burn the nest. If you light a fire with a nest inside, the ammonia and dried droppings can create toxic fumes, and the heat may not be enough to fully burn the nest, leaving flammable creosote behind. - Don’t ignore it. Even if you don’t see the squirrel, the damage is already done. Chewed flue liners or blocked drafts can lead to carbon monoxide buildup.
What to do instead: 1. Call a licensed chimney sweep immediately. Broomfield crews use specialized tools to remove squirrels without harming them, then clean the flue and repair any damage. 2. Install a chimney cap with a squirrel-proof mesh. Standard caps won’t stop squirrels, look for one with 1/2-inch mesh or smaller. Broomfield chimney sweep crews can recommend the best models for your chimney type. 3. Schedule a full inspection. Squirrels often return if entry points aren’t sealed. A sweep will check for other damage, like cracked flue tiles or deteriorated mortar.
Local note: Broomfield’s older neighborhoods (like those near the Broomfield City Center) have brick chimneys that squirrels love. If your home was built before 2000, assume it’s a target, and assume the chimney needs reinforcement.
Birds in your chimney: Why starlings and sparrows are worse than squirrels (and how to stop them)
Birds like European starlings and house sparrows are smaller but more destructive than squirrels. They build nests in flues as narrow as 3 inches, and their droppings corrode metal liners faster than any other animal. In Broomfield, where metal chimneys are common in newer homes, bird nests are a ticking time bomb.
Why birds are a bigger threat: - Nests block 90% of flue space. Even a small nest can stop draft completely, forcing smoke into your home. - Acidic droppings eat through metal. Starling droppings have a pH of 2.5, similar to vinegar, and will corrode a stainless steel liner in months. - They return every year. Birds are territorial and will rebuild nests if you don’t block entry points.
Signs birds are nesting in your chimney: - Feathers or twigs around the chimney cap or in your fireplace. - A strong, musky odor (bird nests smell like rotting meat when dry). - Chirping or fluttering sounds during the day (birds are active when squirrels sleep). - Soot blowing back into your home when you light a fire.
How to remove them safely: 1. Don’t use mothballs or ammonia. These are ineffective and can damage your chimney. 2. Don’t try to pull nests out yourself. Birds will just rebuild. A chimney sweep uses a vacuum system to remove nests without disturbing the birds (which can lead to aggressive behavior). 3. Install a chimney cap with a fine mesh. For birds, you need a cap with 1/4-inch mesh or smaller. Broomfield chimney sweep crews often recommend caps with a slight overhang to deter perching. 4. Seal mortar joints. Birds exploit cracks in brick chimneys. A sweep can apply a waterproof sealant to block entry points.
Broomfield-specific tip: If your home is near open fields (like those around the Broomfield Golf Course), birds are more likely to nest. Schedule a sweep in early spring before nesting season peaks.
Raccoons in your chimney: The silent danger Broomfield homeowners overlook
Raccoons are the least common but most destructive chimney invaders in Broomfield. They’re strong enough to tear through flue liners and leave behind massive amounts of debris. Unlike squirrels or birds, raccoons don’t nest, they use your chimney as a highway to raid attics. If you hear heavy thumping or see raccoon tracks near your chimney, act fast.
Signs raccoons are in your chimney: - Loud, heavy scratching or dragging noises (raccoons are larger than squirrels). - Missing roof shingles or attic debris in your fireplace. - Raccoon droppings (black, cylindrical, and larger than a squirrel’s). - Damaged flue liners (raccoons tear through metal and ceramic).
Why raccoons are a fire hazard: - They shred insulation, leaving flammable material in your chimney. - Their droppings contain pathogens like rabies and roundworm. - They often block the flue completely, creating a carbon monoxide risk.
How to remove them: - Never attempt removal yourself. Raccoons are aggressive and can cause serious injury. - Call a licensed wildlife removal service (some chimney sweeps partner with these experts). In Broomfield, crews often use one-way exclusion devices to safely remove raccoons. - Repair any damage to the flue or crown. Raccoons leave large entry points that need sealing. - Install a heavy-duty chimney cap. Raccoons can’t climb mesh, but they can tear through weak caps. Look for caps with a solid base and 1/2-inch mesh.
Local note: Raccoons are more common in Broomfield’s suburban areas (like those near the Broomfield Open Space) where attics provide easy access. If you’ve seen raccoons in your yard, assume they’ve already checked out your chimney.
The chimney sweep process for animal removal in Broomfield: What to expect
A professional chimney sweep follows a specific process to remove animals safely and prevent future infestations. Here’s what happens when you call a Broomfield crew:
Step 1: Inspection with a camera The sweep uses a flexible camera to locate the animal, assess damage, and check for blockages. This step is critical, if the animal is deep in the flue, removal methods change.
Step 2: Humane removal - Squirrels/birds: Trapped with one-way doors or vacuumed out. - Raccoons: Require a wildlife expert to safely remove them. The sweep ensures the animal exits through the flue (not your home) and is released unharmed.
Step 3: Cleaning the flue - All nest material, droppings, and debris are removed with a rotary brush or vacuum. - The sweep checks for creosote buildup (common after animal nests) and cleans it thoroughly.
Step 4: Repairing damage - Chewed flue liners are patched or replaced. - Mortar joints are repointed to seal entry points. - The crown (top of the chimney) is inspected for cracks.
Step 5: Installing a chimney cap - A heavy-duty cap with mesh small enough to block animals is installed. - The sweep ensures the cap is secured to withstand Broomfield’s wind (especially near open areas like the Broomfield Airport).
Cost considerations for Broomfield homeowners: - Basic removal (squirrels/birds): $150–$300, depending on nest size and flue access. - Raccoon removal: $300–$600 (often requires a wildlife expert). - Repairs (liner replacement, mortar repointing): $200–$800, depending on damage. - Chimney cap installation: $100–$250 (cheap caps fail in Broomfield’s wind).
Pro tip: Ask if the sweep offers a warranty on repairs. Some Broomfield crews provide a 1-year guarantee on repointing or liner patches. Broomfield chimney sweep pricing for a detailed breakdown of costs.
How to keep critters from coming back into your Broomfield chimney after removal
Once animals are removed, the real work begins: keeping them out. Broomfield’s climate and housing stock make prevention tricky, but these steps work:
1. Install the right chimney cap. - For squirrels: 1/2-inch mesh or smaller. - For birds: 1/4-inch mesh or a cap with a baffle system. - For raccoons: A heavy-duty cap with a solid base and overhang. Avoid cheap caps, they bend in Broomfield’s wind. Broomfield chimney sweep crews recommend caps from brands like Chim-Chim-Chim or HearthMaster.
2. Seal mortar joints and cracks. Squirrels and birds exploit even small gaps. A sweep can apply a waterproof sealant to brick chimneys. For metal chimneys, check for rusted seams and repair them.
3. Keep the area around your chimney clean. Animals are drawn to debris. Remove leaves, twigs, and nests from the roof and chimney cap regularly.
4. Use a chimney balloon (for metal flues). These inflatable barriers block small animals from entering the flue. They’re a good temporary solution if you’re waiting for a permanent cap.
5. Schedule annual inspections. The Chimney Safety Institute of America the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)|https://www.csia.org/)) recommends inspections every year, especially in Broomfield where animal activity peaks in spring and fall. A sweep can spot early signs of new nests or damage.
Broomfield-specific tip: If your chimney is near trees (common in neighborhoods like the ones around Broomfield’s open space), animals have easier access. Trim branches within 10 feet of the chimney to reduce temptation.
| Animal Type | Removal Method | Typical Cost (Broomfield) | Time to Complete | Prevention Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Squirrels | Humane trap or vacuum | $150–$300 | 1–2 hours | Chimney cap with 1/2-inch mesh |
| Birds (starlings, sparrows) | Vacuum or one-way door | $120–$250 | 30–60 minutes | Fine-mesh cap (1/4-inch) or baffle |
| Raccoons | Wildlife expert + sweep | $300–$600 | 2–4 hours | Heavy-duty cap + attic sealing |
| Mice/Rats | Steel wool or exclusion | $100–$200 | 1 hour | Cap with 1/8-inch mesh |
| Bats (rare in Broomfield) | Humane exclusion | $250–$500 | 1–2 days | Cap with 1/4-inch mesh + attic inspection |
Frequently Asked Questions
My Broomfield chimney has a strong ammonia smell, is that just animals, or could it be something worse?
That smell is almost always from animal urine or droppings. In Broomfield, squirrels and raccoons mark their territory with ammonia-rich urine, and bird nests create a similar stench when dry. If you’ve noticed other signs (like scratching or debris), animals are inside. The smell alone isn’t dangerous, but the risk of fire or disease is, call a chimney sweep immediately. Broomfield chimney sweep crews use UV lighting to spot urine stains in flues that you can’t see.
I heard scratching in my chimney last night, could it be a squirrel, or is it just the wind?
If the noise is rhythmic and comes from inside the flue (not rattling around the cap), it’s almost certainly a squirrel. Broomfield’s dry climate makes chimneys attractive to squirrels, especially in older brick homes. Wind usually makes a hissing or whistling sound, not scratching. If you hear this at dawn or dusk, assume a squirrel is nesting, and assume it’s already chewed through your flue liner. Broomfield chimney sweep crews often find squirrel nests within 24 hours of the first scratching.
My chimney cap is intact, but I keep finding bird feathers in the fireplace, how are they getting in?
Birds don’t need a broken cap to enter. Starlings and sparrows can squeeze through gaps as small as 1/4 inch, even if the cap looks secure. In Broomfield, metal chimneys (common in newer homes) often have loose seams or rusted edges that birds exploit. If you’re seeing feathers, assume birds are nesting inside, and assume they’ve already blocked your flue. A chimney sweep will use a camera to confirm and install a cap with finer mesh. Broomfield chimney sweep crews recommend caps with a baffle system for bird-prone areas.
I tried a DIY squirrel trap, but it didn’t work, what should I do now?
DIY traps often fail because squirrels get stuck inside the flue or chew through the trap. In Broomfield’s dry climate, trapped animals dry out fast, creating a fire hazard. If your trap didn’t work, stop trying DIY methods, call a licensed chimney sweep. They use one-way doors or vacuum systems to remove squirrels safely, then clean the flue and repair damage. Broomfield chimney sweep crews also check for other entry points squirrels might use. Never attempt to burn out a nest, it leaves flammable creosote behind.