Squirrels are cute but not when they damage your home by getting in your attic and on your roof. They also can cause fires by chewing on live electrical wires. Here are some tips on preventing squirrels from getting in your home and needing Roof Repair in Gig Harbor.
Trim Trees and Bushes
Tree squirrels travel on tree branches and electrical wires like cars on highways. Not only are squirrels furry acrobats, but they can leap from a standstill up to five feet across. You do not want a squirrel traveling from a tree, bush or shrub onto your roof. Make sure all branches are at least ten feet away from any part of your home.
Check Bird Feeders
Squirrels arguably love bird feeders more than birds do. Always clean up any spillage from a bird feeder on the ground that may attract squirrels and other pests. Make sure a bird feeder is at least ten feet away from your home so the squirrel does not have a launching pad onto your home.
Check Your Roof Annually
Your roof needs checking at least once a year for many reasons, but also to see any damage caused by squirrels. Also check attic vents, chimneys, ridges, dormers and any areas connected to the rest of the home. These are the areas most likely to be attacked by squirrels. If you cannot get onto your roof yourself, contact a Roof Repair in Gig Harbor service. Boards or shingled that are loose or warping need fixing before any critter finds out these weak spots and removes them.
Check Your Attic Annually
It may be hard to check the roof yourself, but you should be able to check the inside of your attic or crawl space. Inspect the inside of your attic in the fall when squirrels are most active, especially if you have heard scratches on your walls. That could be the sound of a squirrel managing to climb the walls up onto the roof and into your attic. Check for droppings, for damage from nibbling and check the insulation to make sure it has not been pulled apart to make a nest.
