Install a chimney cap

Your best line of defense against a determined squirrel crawling down your chimney is a chimney cap, because its grated sides and sturdy hood fit snugly on top of the chimney to prevent critters, rain and debris from entering.

Installing the cap is easy; safely working on a roof is the challenging part. Maneuver over to the chimney, where you can inspect the flue and measure its inside dimensions so you know what size cap to buy. On the first inspection, don’t forget to bring a measuring tape. The installation is as simple as inserting the flue tabs of the cap into the chimney and using a screwdriver to fasten four screws around the outside of the chimney cap base to hold it in place.

You’ll find chimney caps sold at home centers and lumberyards in a range of sizes from 9 inches square to 13-by-18 inches in black metal or stainless steel. You’ll notice that the package lists a minimum and maximum opening size, so choose one whose range fits your chimney.

A handyman will charge about $284 to inspect and install a chimney cap. If you’re willing to do the high-wire work, you can buy a cap for $75 and install it yourself, pocketing a 74 percent saving. If you do it yourself, double-check your tools before you venture up to the roof.

To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com on your laptop, tablet or smartphone.

Pro Cost -- DIY Cost -- Pro time -- DIY Time -- DIY Savings -- Percent Saved

$284 -- $75 -- 0.9 -- 2.5 -- $209 -- 74 Percent

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