Preventing Squirrel Damage to Your Attic: Effective Exclusion Techniques
The Fall Surge: Squirrel Activity in September and October
As the cooler months of September and October approach, squirrels begin their annual rush to harvest and stash nuts. In lower elevations like Nevada City and Auburn, homeowners often find acorns stashed in the attic as the bring down the holiday decorations. Up the hill near Truckee and Tahoe, you may notice pinecones that have been shredded bare on the porch and around the yard. This heightened activity often leads them to seek out warm, safe places to store their finds, and your attic can become an ideal target. Homeowners frequently find themselves asking, "Do squirrels chew wires?" The answer is a resounding yes. Squirrels, rats, and mice all need to keep chewing and will chew wires. This article will provide essential information on preventing squirrel damage to your attic, with a focus on effective exclusion techniques.
Common Damages Caused by Squirrels
Chewing on Electrical Wires
One of the most significant risks posed by squirrels in your attic is their tendency to chew on electrical wires. This behavior can lead to:
Fire Hazards: Exposed wires increase the risk of electrical fires.
Power Outages: Damaged wiring can cause power failures in your home. In Tahoe where ceilings are vaulted and inaccessible, electrical repairs often come with costly drywall repairs.
Plumbing damage: Squirrels often cross over plumbing pipes, and in tight spaces can cause burst. Squirrels in the attic have also been know to chew on leaking pipes and valves.
Insulation Damage
Squirrels can also cause considerable damage to your attic insulation:
Nesting: Squirrels often tear up insulation to create nests, reducing its effectiveness.
Contamination: Droppings and urine can contaminate insulation, posing health risks.
Effective Exclusion Techniques
To protect your home from squirrel damage, especially during their busy fall season, it’s crucial to implement effective exclusion techniques. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Sealing Entry Points with Sheet Metal
Squirrels can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. To keep squirrels out of your attic:
Inspect for Gaps: Look for gaps, cracks, and holes around your attic and roofline.
Use Sheet Metal: For larger openings, seal these openings with sheet metal, which squirrels cannot chew through.
Seal Cracks: Gaps under ½ inch may be too small for entry, but they still are starting points for squirrels to chew their way into your soffits.
2. Screening Gable Vents
Any vent in your home has a hole behind it to allow air flow. Many vents are made of lightweight dust screens that squirrels can chew through. Gable vents are common entry points for squirrels. To secure these areas:
Install Screens: Use heavy-duty wire mesh screens over gable vents to keep squirrels out while allowing proper ventilation.
Regular Inspections: Periodically check the screens for any damage or gaps.
3. Removing Persistent Squirrels
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, squirrels may persist in trying to enter your home. In such cases:
Humane Trapping: Use humane traps to capture and relocate the squirrels.
Professional Help: Consider hiring a wildlife control expert for safe and effective removal.
Maintaining Long-Term Protection
Ensuring long-term protection from squirrels involves regular maintenance and vigilance:
Regular Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of your attic and roof to identify and seal any new entry points.
Tree Trimming: Trim tree branches that are close to your home to prevent squirrels from accessing your roof.
Clean Yard: Keep your yard clean and free of food sources that might attract squirrels.
As winter closes in . . .
As squirrels ramp up their activities in September and October, taking proactive steps to exclude them from your attic becomes essential. By sealing entry points with sheet metal, screening gable vents, and addressing persistent squirrels, you can protect your home from the significant damage they can cause. Remember, the question "Do squirrels chew wires?" is not just a curiosity—it’s a call to action. Safeguard your attic now to prevent costly repairs and ensure your home remains safe and secure throughout the year.
For professional squirrel removal and exclusion services, contact Gold Country Wildlife Control. Our experts are dedicated to providing effective and humane solutions to keep your home squirrel-free.
