Squirrels may be cute, but when they infest your roof, they can be very destructive to your home. From chewing on electrical wires to creating entry points in your attic, these critters can lead to costly repairs and potential safety hazards.
At RainTech Roofing, Sheet Metal & Gutters, we understand the unique challenges squirrels post and are here to help Tulsa homeowners protect their roofs from these unwanted guests. While we may not be a pest control company, we know that being proactive in keeping these pests out is the best approach.
Signs of Squirrel Activity on Your Roof
Before you can address a squirrel problem, it is important to recognize the signs of their presence. While there are some problems that might be readily apparent, this, unfortunately, isn’t always the case. Here are some common indicators that squirrels may be on your roof or in your attic:
- Scratching or scurrying sounds coming from your ceiling or walls.
- Chewed electrical wire or insulation.
- Visible entry holes near eaves, vents, or soffits.
- Droppings and urine in attic spaces.
- Nesting materials, such a leaves and twigs, inside your roof.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent further damage.
Why Are Squirrels Attracted to Your Roof?
Like any other animal, squirrels are attracted to roofing systems because they provide adequate warmth and safety. For this reason, it is not uncommon for squirrels to start finding their way into an attic through the roofing system in the colder months. Some other reasons, squirrels might invade your roof and attic include:
- Warmth and Shelter: Attics provide a safe, warm space for nesting, especially during colder months.
- Easy Access: Overhanging branches or nearby structures make it simple for squirrels to reach the roof.
- Food Sources: Bird feeders, gardens, and unsecured trash cans attract squirrels to the area.
- Safety from Predators: Roofs offer a high vantage point, keeping squirrels away from ground-level threats.
- Nesting Opportunities: Roof gaps, vents, and soffits create ideal nesting spots.
- Chewable Materials: Squirrels are drawn to wood, insulation, and wiring to gnaw on for dental health.
Risks and Damages Caused by Squirrels
While physical damage is among the most common risks and damages caused by squirrels, they are far from the only potential problem. For instance, squirrels might chew through roofing materials, fascia boards, and insulation, ultimately weakening the structure. Their tendency to gnaw on electrical wiring might also create a fire risk or lead to short circuiting.
In addition to these concerns, squirrels are known to carry parasites and diseases that may pose risks to your household. Since the attic system has direct contact with your indoor ceilings, droppings and urine can seep into the ceiling material over time and cause health concerns.
How Can I Prevent Squirrels from Invading My Roof?
Preventing squirrel infestations starts with proactive measures. As you might imagine, there are many recommendations available on the internet from the countless pest control companies in Tulsa; however, we want to ensure you have a comprehensive and precise list available without needing to search for it. Here are some tips to help keep your home squirrel-free:
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Cut back tree limbs that provide easy access to your roof.
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect your roof for gaps, holes, and vulnerable areas, sealing them with durable materials.
- Install Gutter Guards: Gutter protection systems can deter squirrels from using gutters as pathways.
- Use Squirrel Repellents: Natural deterrents, such as peppermint oil or predator scents, can help discourage squirrels.
- Secure Food Sources: Keep garbage bins closed and remove any outdoor food sources that might attract squirrels.
What Do I Do If Squirrels Are Already Inside?
Squirrels may be tiny, but the damage they cause on your roof is massive. Being proactive and taking professional help whenever necessary can save your house from these pests. Before working with a roofing contractor to fix damage and seal potential entry points, it is important to ensure that any present squirrels are removed.
If you suspect that squirrels have made their way into your attic, follow these steps:
- Identify Entry Points: Conduct a thorough inspection to find where squirrels are getting in.
- Encourage Exit: Use bright lights, loud noises, or commercial repellents to encourage squirrels to leave.
- Install One-Way Doors: These allow squirrels to exit but prevent re-entry.
- Seek Professional Help: If the problem persists, contact wildlife removal experts or a roofing professional for assistance.
How RainTech Roofing Can Help
At RainTech Roofing, Sheet Metal & Gutters we understand the damage that pests like squirrels can cause to Tulsa homes, which is why we offer comprehensive solutions to protect your roof. Our expert team conducts thorough inspections to identify potential vulnerabilities and address them effectively. By sealing entry points with high-quality materials and reinforcing weak areas, we help homeowners prevent costly damage and ensure their roof remains secure.
In addition to structural reinforcements, we provide proactive measures such as installing gutter protection systems to deter pests and offering ongoing maintenance to keep your roof in top condition. Our goal is to deliver long-term solutions that safeguard your home from unwanted intrusions while maintaining the integrity of your roofing system.
Contact us today or give us a call at (918) 449-1474 for a FREE roof inspection and let our experts ensure your roof is in perfect condition. Whether you need a repair, a replacement, or simply peace of mind, we’re here to help.
