Buzz
Wildlife inhabiting your attic can wreak havoc on your home's wiring, plumbing, and structural integrity, while also introducing disease. Preventing wildlife from entering your attic primarily involves regular home inspections and maintenance. Seal off any potential entry points to keep wildlife out of your living space for good.
Key Steps
Preventing Entry
Survey the exterior of your residence. Many animals gain access to attics through small openings or man-made fixtures like vents and chimney pipes. Larger creatures may even gnaw or claw through weak spots in the exterior to create entry points. Thoroughly examine the perimeter of your home to identify and rectify any vulnerabilities in its exterior.
Patch up any roof openings.
Secure vent covers.
Install a chimney cap.
Trim or remove overhanging tree branches.
Deploy traps to capture attic intruders.
Deterring Wildlife
Eliminate potential food sources. Make your attic less appealing by removing easily accessible food sources from around your home and yard. Secure your trash cans, avoid leaving pet food outside, and promptly clean up any fallen fruit or nuts from your yard.
Avoid using mothballs, ammonia, and noise devices. Contrary to popular belief, these methods are ineffective for removing or deterring animals from your attic, especially raccoons and mice. Additionally, mothballs contain carcinogens that can pose health risks if mishandled.
Install a squirrel nesting box on your property. While it may be challenging to completely rid your property of squirrels, especially in wooded areas, providing a comfortable alternative nesting space outside your attic may encourage them to choose a more accessible location.
Insights
Important Reminders
- Check local regulations regarding the release of trapped animals back into their natural habitats. Ensure that you release any trapped animals in appropriate locations.
- Mice, rats, bats, and raccoons may carry diseases. Exercise caution if you discover these animals in your attic. Refrain from provoking or attempting to trap them unless you possess extensive knowledge of animal trapping methods.
- Seek professional assistance if you feel uneasy about performing roof repairs and installations. These tasks can be hazardous.
