Crisp fall air is settling into Michigan’s neighborhoods – and so are the squirrels and other pests. Your roof is designed to protect your home from the weather, to be sure. But pests often view it as a springboard into your home as they seek warmth and food. Your attic and roofline are targets for squirrels, raccoons, birds, and insects as they try to find cozy spots to wait out the winter.
If such pest activity is ignored, serious concerns could result, such as roof damage, insulation damage, and fire hazards. Check out these tips on how to protect your roof and your home from unwelcome critters this fall. Hiring a roofer in Troy for a comprehensive inspection is a great place to start.
Fall: Prime Time For Roof Pests
Autumn is nesting season, especially for larger pests like squirrels and raccoons who are busy gathering food and preparing shelters. Your roof provides:
- Easy access to your home thanks to nearby tree limbs.
- Gaps in soffits, fascia, or shingles where pests can squeeze in.
- Warmth and protection from predators.
- Hidden entry points into your attic.
Once they have gained entry, pests will start to settle in – chewing through wires, tearing up insulation, and damaging roofing materials. Not only does this invasion pose a health and safety issue, it can cause you a lot of money in repairs.
Common Roof Entry Points
Protecting your home starts with a comprehensive understanding of where squirrels and other pests are getting in. Vulnerable spots include:
- Roof edges and soffits
- Fascia boards
- Chimneys without caps
- Gaps around attic vents or roof penetrations
- Roof valleys or loose shingles
Remember: gaps even as small as two inches can be enough for a mouse, squirrel or even a bird to get through.
How to Protect Your Roof
It’s always better to be proactive in pest prevention this fall. Once pests are inside, it’s much harder to get them out.
1. Trim Back Tree Branches
Squirrels and raccoons will use overhanging branches as a bridge to get onto your roof. From there, it’s only a matter of time before they make it into your attic. Trim branches at least six feetback from the roof.
2. Install Chimney Caps and Vent Screens
Uncovered chimneys and attic vents invite animals and birds in. Make sure your current chimney caps and vent screens are in good working order. If you don’t have them already, invest in some.
3. Clean Your Gutters
Clogged gutters attract insects, which in turn lure in larger animals such as squirrels, birds and rodents. They can also cause water to back up and damage roofing materials, resulting in new entry points. Fall is a great time to clean your gutters or hire someone to do it for you.
4. Seal Entry Points
Check the roofline for gaps, holes, or rotting wood. Seal gaps with pest-resistant materials such as metal flashing or hardware cloth. Pay attention to:
- Fascia boards
- Soffits
- Attic vents
- Roof flashing
5. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection in Troy
A professional Troy roofer can identify early signs of pest activity or damage and suggest custom treatments.
This fall, use this opportunity to be proactive in inspecting your roof and keeping critters such as squirrels out of your home. It all starts with proper roof care!
Contact McLean Roofing and Siding Today
It can be tricky for homeowners to know for sure if their roof is vulnerable to pest invasion. Let us provide a roof inspection in Troy to help identify areas of concern and arm you with a customized plan to safeguard your home against squirrels and other critters. Contact us at (248) 524-1111 to schedule your free no-obligation estimate and consultation.