Custom Chimney Screen Installation in Concord, MA
When a homeowner in Concord, MA noticed signs of unwanted wildlife making their way into their chimney, they called the experts at Chim Chimney Sweep to find a lasting solution. Birds, squirrels, raccoons, and other small animals are naturally attracted to the warmth and shelter that an open chimney provides – and once they get in, the damage and health hazards they leave behind can be significant.
Our team arrived, assessed the situation, and got to work on a comprehensive solution that would seal the chimney from pests while keeping it fully functional and safe to use. We installed a custom cut, stainless steel screen to fit securely and seal any spaces between the brickwork and top concrete slab – while still allowing everything to vent safely as well. We then smoothed out the crown and applied crown seal prior to aligning the screens into place, too. No more pests getting into this chimney!
How Do Pests Get Into a Chimney?
One of the most common – and most overlooked – entry points for pests is the small spaces that develop between a chimney’s brickwork and its top concrete slab. Over time, weather exposure, freeze-thaw cycles, and natural settling can cause these gaps to widen, creating an open invitation for wildlife to enter. In this Concord home, those gaps had become just large enough for small animals to squeeze through, making their way down into the chimney and eventually into the home itself.
Without proper sealing, this type of entry point can lead to:
- Nesting materials building up inside the flue, creating a fire hazard
- Animal droppings and debris contaminating the chimney and indoor air quality
- Blocked airflow, reducing the efficiency of the fireplace and increasing the risk of carbon monoxide backup
- Structural damage caused by animals scratching or nesting against the chimney liner
Our Solution: Custom-Cut Stainless Steel Chimney Screen
Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all fix, our team at Chim-Chimney Sweepers custom cut a stainless steel screen specifically sized and shaped to fit this chimney perfectly. A proper fit is critical – gaps or loose edges defeat the entire purpose of the screen and give pests another way back in.
Stainless steel was the material of choice for good reason. It offers:
- Durability. Stainless steel holds up against the elements, resisting rust and corrosion through New England’s harsh winters and humid summers.
- Longevity. Unlike cheaper materials, stainless steel screens are built to last for years without needing frequent replacement.
- Proper Ventilation. The screen is designed to allow gases, smoke, and moisture to escape freely while blocking wildlife and debris from entering.
- Secure Fit. Custom cut to match the exact dimensions of the chimney opening, the screen sits firmly in place without shifting or leaving gaps.
Next Step: Crown Repair & Crown Seal Application
While our team was on the roof, we didn’t stop at just installing the screen. A thorough chimney inspection revealed that the crown – the concrete slab that sits at the very top of the chimney and directs water away from the flue – had developed cracks and rough areas from years of weather exposure.
We took the time to:
- Smooth out the crown by removing rough edges, deteriorating concrete, and any debris that had accumulated.
- Apply Crown Seal – a professional-grade, flexible sealant was applied to the crown to waterproof and protect it from future cracking, moisture intrusion, and freeze-thaw damage
This step is essential. A damaged chimney crown allows water to seep into the masonry, which accelerates deterioration and can lead to costly repairs down the road. By addressing the crown at the same time as the screen installation, we ensured this homeowner’s chimney was fully protected from the top down.
The Result: A Fully Sealed, Pest-Free Chimney
Once the crown was repaired, sealed, and fully prepped, our team carefully aligned and secured the custom stainless steel screens into place, closing off every gap between the brickwork and the concrete slab. The chimney now vents safely and efficiently while remaining completely sealed against wildlife entry.
The homeowner in Concord, MA can now enjoy their fireplace with full peace of mind, knowing that:
✔ No animals can enter through the chimney
✔ The chimney crown is sealed and protected from water damage
✔ Airflow and ventilation remain unobstructed
✔ The installation is built to last through New England’s toughest seasons
Does Your Chimney Need a Custom Screen?
If you’ve noticed signs of animals in your chimney, heard scratching or chirping sounds, or spotted gaps around your chimney’s crown or brickwork, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Chim-Chimney Sweepers serves homeowners across Massachusetts with expert chimney inspections, custom screen installations, crown repairs, and more.
Contact us today to schedule your inspection and protect your home.
Proudly serving Concord, MA and surrounding communities throughout Massachusetts.
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