Bird nests and pest removal
Nest and Pest Removal
From time to time, Chimneys can be used in ways other than just for gas evacuation. However, when this does occurs, it’s often not the homeowner who is using the chimney.
Birds, bees and wasps all find Chimneys an ideal place to set up their home with the warm and sheltered environment that chimneys provide. Having birds or other pests in your chimney can lead to dangerous blockages and as such, need removing.
Bird's Nests
Signs you may have birds nesting in your chimney
- Twigs, feathers and bird droppings falling into your stove or fireplace
- Sounds of chirping or tweeting
- Bird activity around the chimney pot
Although it may seem somewhat inhumane to clear out nests and pests from your chimney, it is necessary for your own safety and well being.
Leaving nests and pests in your chimney have the potential to cause health problems, fires, blockages and could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Fungus growing on dried bird droppings could also lead to a disease called ‘Histoplasmosis’ which could result in becoming very ill. In some rare cases, histoplasmosis can be fatal.
Following the removal of the debris from the chimney, we carry out an internal video inspection of the chimney to assure nothing has been left. We then perform a smoke draught test to confirm your chimney is functioning as it should be.
Bees and wasps
Like bird’s nests, bees and wasps hives must be removed also. The reasons for which are as follows:
- Hives have the potential to block your flue and can fall further down the chimney, nearer to the source of heat.
- The hive itself and any honey it may contain are flammable, increasing the risk of chimney fire
- Empty Hives give off a scent which attracts insects, further adding to the blockage and causing a repeat of the problem
- The honey stored in the hive often melts, bleeding through the brickwork and causing permanent staining to your walls and ceilings