What To Do About Pigeons In Your Chimney

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There are several different areas of domestic properties where pigeons can cause problems, and most commonly they will either become a problem by nesting on a flat area of the roof, or by getting into the attic. However, the problems that are caused by pigeons can be greater when they actually find their way into a chimney stack, and getting them out can also then become more of a problem. It is important to deal with a pigeon infestation quickly, otherwise the costs of repairs can quickly add up because of the damage they can cause to the chimney stack and the chimney liner.



Identifying How The Pigeons Are Getting In

This is important as it will decide where you will need to pay attention in terms of repairs in the chimney. The majority of cases will see that pigeons are getting in through the top of the chimney either because the chimney is uncapped, or the chimney hood or cap is damaged and has a hole large enough to allow the pigeons in. The other possibility is that there is a hole in the stack which is allowing the pigeons in, and this will usually require more significant repairs.

Carrying Out Exclusion Work

The first step is to get the pigeons out of the chimney, and once you have found out how they are getting in, you will need to install an exclusion funnel over that hole so that the pigeon can leave but can't get back in again. Make sure that you are sealing any gaps around the funnel with either chicken wire or flashing to prevent the pigeons from being able to get around the funnel.

Repairs

Once you can verify that the pigeons are all out of the chimney, you will then need to carry out any repairs. It is worth having the chimney liner examined to see if it needs to be replaced, while any holes in the chimney stack will need to be professionally repaired.

Will Lighting A Fire Drive The Pigeons Out?

This is one step that you should absolutely avoid, as this will often confuse pigeons rather than driving them out of the chimney, and in some cases they can get swamped in the smoke and actually drop down into the fireplace. With a fire as well, this can also light the nest on fire, which will then come falling down into the fireplace too, which can cause further problems.

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