Raccoons are clever critters and can cause significant damage to your roof. Raccoons are essentially mini home inspectors, constantly exploring rooftops for any structural flaws. Although it is not the animal’s intent to be destructive or harmful, it is a fact that these animals cause considerable damage that often goes undetected.
Why Do Raccoons Damage Roofs?
Raccoons are highly intelligent and resourceful animals that often cause damage to roofs as they search for primary and secondary den sites. They are drawn to attics because these spaces provide shelter from the elements, warmth, and a safe environment for raising their young. By damaging roofs, raccoons create access points that allow them to establish a secure living space away from predators and harsh weather.
What Areas On A Roof Do Raccoons Damage?
Raccoons can cause damage to several specific areas of your roof:
Roof Vents
Raccoons often target roof vents, prying them open to gain access to the attic. This not only compromises the vent but also allows for water to enter the home. Roof Vents create proper air flow in an attic, which prevents moisture and mold from building up. They are most often constructed of a thin plastic material making it very easy for raccoons to chew and tear their way past and into the attic. A determined animal will also chew through vents made of metal.
Overhangs
They may damage overhangs as they climb and explore, weakening these structural components and creating potential entry points.
Fascia and Roof Boards
Raccoons are drawn to rotten fascia and roof boards, which are easier to chew through. This can lead to further deterioration of the roof structure. Roof / Fascia Space is a structural opening between the roof board (supports the shingles) and the fascia board (supports the eavestrough). When this space exists on a house it presents an opportunity for raccoons and squirrels to put their nose into the opening and gnaw on the free edge of the wood. Once they have made the hole large enough they can climb through the opening into the attic.
Flashing
Raccoons can displace or damage flashing around chimneys and walls, allowing water to seep into your home and causing leaks.
Soffits
Raccoons may also target soffits, creating openings that can lead directly into the attic. Raccoons will simply push up with their back and dislodge a piece of the aluminum soffit to enter the attic, squirrels and birds will often squeeze into an opening that already exists.
Shingles
Raccoons can tear up shingles while trying to create an entry point, compromising the roof’s integrity and leading to leaks. Raccoons are notorious for their ability to detect and exploit weaknesses in a roof’s structure, particularly when driven by the urge to find shelter or food. With their keen sense of smell, they can sniff out rotten or decayed wood hidden beneath the shingles, often indicating a vulnerable spot.
What Does A Raccoon In The Roof Sound Like?
If you suspect a raccoon has taken up residence in your roof or attic, you may hear a variety of distinctive sounds that can help confirm their presence:
Thumping or Banging: If a raccoon is moving around or trying to access different areas, you may hear thumping or banging noises. When a raccoon first breaks into an roof it will want to investigate the entire attic space.
Chirping or Growling: Raccoons can make a range of vocalizations, including soft chirps or growls. These sounds may indicate they are feeling threatened or are communicating with other raccoons.
Fighting Noises: If there are multiple raccoons, you might hear sounds of them tussling or playing, which can resemble moving furniture.
Crying or Whining: If a mother raccoon has babies, you may hear soft crying or whining sounds from the young ones, especially if they are separated from her.
What Kind Of Damage Do Raccoons Cause?
Once raccoons move into your roof, the potential for damage increases significantly:
Structural Damage: Raccoons are known for their dexterous paws, which they use to pry open roof structures. They can tear up shingles, open roof vents, displace flashing, and damage soffits in their attempts to access your home.
Insulation Compromise: If they gain entry to your attic, raccoons can disturb insulation materials, causing them to become packed down. This leads to inefficient energy use and increased heating or cooling costs.
Foul Odors and Contamination: Raccoons often leave droppings and urine behind, creating unpleasant odors and posing health risks due to potential diseases, such as raccoon roundworm.
Increased Repair Costs: The longer raccoons inhabit your roof or attic, the more extensive the damage will become. For example, seeping rain and snow through entry holes can lead to mold and water damage, while gnawed electrical wires can ignite fires. Damaged insulation can further contribute to rising heating and cooling costs.
How Do You Keep Raccoons Off Your Roof?
While it can be challenging to completely prevent raccoons from accessing your roof, there are several steps you can take to make it more difficult for them. Start by trimming tree branches to maintain a clearance of at least six feet from your roof, eliminating potential pathways for raccoons to climb up. Additionally, cut back vines that grow close to or on your roof, ensuring they remain at least six feet below the roofline to prevent easy access. Finally, remove any unnecessary structures such as old TV antennas or other climbing aids that raccoons could exploit as stepping stones to gain roof access, thereby securing your home from potential raccoon damage.
4 Ways Raccoon Damage Be Prevented
1. Regular Inspections
Periodically check your roof for signs of wear and tear, such as loose or missing shingles, damaged vents, and curled or buckled roofing material. Look for signs of raccoon activity, including droppings, tracks, or chewing marks. Inspect your roof at least twice a year, ideally in Spring and Fall.
2. Secure Entry Points
Ensure that all potential entry points, like chimneys, plumbing mats and vents, are properly screened or capped.
3. Remove Attractants
Make your property less appealing to raccoons by keeping your yard clean and free of food debris. Secure garbage cans with tight-fitting lids or locks, remove pet food and bird seed from outdoor areas, and trim trees and shrubs to reduce access to your roof.
4. Professional Assistance
If you suspect raccoons are already on your roof or in your attic, consult with wildlife control professionals. We can safely and humanely remove the raccoons, seal entry points to prevent re-entry, provide guidance on damage repair and prevention, and offer expert advice on raccoon-proofing your property.
Raccoons may seem like harmless creatures, but their inquisitive nature can lead to serious damage to your roof and home. By understanding their behaviour and taking proactive steps to secure your property, you can prevent costly repairs and maintain a safe, peaceful living environment. If you have concerns about raccoons invading your space, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to address the issue effectively.
Contact a Wildlife Professional
Gates Wildlife Control specializes in safe and humane raccoon removal, sealing entry points, and offering long-term prevention solutions. Our experienced wildlife technicians will evaluate your property, repair any damage, and ensure that raccoons cannot re-gain entry. Contact Gates Wildlife today to safeguard your home and prevent future raccoon issues.
