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Keep Squirrels Out of the Attic with These Tips

Squirrel invasions may be more common than you think. Female squirrels like to break into attics in the summer to raise their babies, and both sexes like to nest indoors to wait out the winter’s cold. They get inside by chewing holes in the roof, then make a mess of the attic’s interior. Squirrels are known for dirtying attic insulation and chewing on electrical wires, costing homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs.

The following article lists what you can do to avoid the hassle of a squirrel problem. If you suspect that squirrels are currently nesting in your attic, call a professional for squirrel removal in Peterborough or near you. Squirrels should be removed immediately and humanely.

Cover Your Roof Vents

Squirrels often get into attics by chewing their way through plastic roof vents. They tear holes in the undersides of the vent caps, then wiggle their way into the attic. Cover these vents with a thick steel mesh, preferably with gaps one quarter of an inch wide. Galvanized steel works best because it is weather-proof and will last a long time. Cut the mesh to fit over your vents, then screw the material right into the roof to keep squirrels out.

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Seal Openings with Caulking and Mesh

Check the edges of your roof for gaps, then seal them shut. Older homes are susceptible to having gaps along the edges of the roof, which invite squirrels and other animals to come nesting inside. You should also check for gaps between your soffits and the outer walls of the home. Check these areas carefully, then use mesh, caulking, or metal flashing to close them shut. If it’s too much work, you can hire a professional to squirrel-proof your roof for you.

Get Rid of the Bird Feeder

Bird feeders are attractive to squirrels, rats, mice, and raccoons. If you can part with it, put the bird feeder away or switch to a hanging one that you can put far out of reach. The problem with many bird feeders is that they spill seeds onto the ground, so even “squirrel-proof” feeders may feed the squirrels and keep them coming back.

Protect Your Plants

Squirrels are omnivores that love to nest near gardens. Put some mesh fencing around your produce garden or use row covers to keep your plants out of reach. Pick up fallen fruit and don’t let anything spoil on the ground. When planting bulbs, cover them in chicken wire before burying them completely. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper into your garden beds to help ward off squirrels.

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Rake the Leaves and Empty Your Gutters

Squirrels build their nests with grass, leaves, and twigs. Getting rid of these will help keep squirrels from building nests and getting into the attic. Rake the leaves in the fall and bag them up for collection or use them for compost. Likewise, you should empty your gutters in the fall to get rid of all that nesting material. Squirrels have even been known to nest in stuffed gutters. Scoop everything out, then run the hose through the gutters to ensure that the downspouts are not blocked.

Trim Tree Branches

Trees that hang over the roof provide squirrels with easy access. They also shed leaves into the gutters and risk falling onto the roof and causing damage. Make sure that your tree branches are always a few feet away from the roof. If you cannot reach them safely, call a local arborist for help. He or she will trim the branches safely, and they can let you know if any of your trees are at risk of breaking.

Use Natural Deterrents

If the squirrels in your area are especially active around your roof, consider using some deterrents. Try spraying apple cider vinegar or simulated predator urine along the edges of your roof and garden. You can find predator urine in most hardware stores. For a nicer smell, you can try using peppermint oil. Simply mix 3-5 drops of essential peppermint oil in a cup of water and add a drop of dish soap. Squirrels dislike the smell.

 

Gail P
I am a beachy type of person, living in Newport Beach, and oftentimes I’ll go for a swim with my daughter. When I’m bored, I’ll help make package boxes for my little girl’s sticker company on Etsy.