Squirrels sharp teeth enable easy access, allowing them to establish cozy nests within insulated attic spaces. Squirrels seek attics for shelter from harsh weather, warmth and a safe place to raise their young. Attics also offer ideal protection from predators and elements. Squirrels create entry points by chewing through roofs, vents, eaves and soffits.
How Do Squirrels Get Into My House?
Squirrels can be surprisingly crafty when it comes to getting into your house. They’re excellent climbers and can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. Here are some common ways they might get in:
Vents
Plastic roof, attic, bathroom, or dryer vents provide easy access.
Chimneys
Uncapped or damaged chimneys serve as open invitations.
Fascia Gaps
Spaces between roof decking and fascia allow squirrels to squeeze through.
Soffits
Gaps between soffits and roofs enable unhindered entry.
Siding Gaps
Holes or cracks in siding, trim, or boards provide vulnerable entry points.
Why Do Squirrels Keep Coming Back to My House?
Squirrels persistently return to their established attic dens and cached food due to:
- Instinctual habits
- Food availability
- Shelter and protection
Effective prevention requires:
- Understanding squirrel motivations and behaviors
- Animal-proofing entry points
- Removing attractants
- Professional assistance for long-term exclusion
How Do I Keep Squirrels Away from My House?
Determined squirrels can always find ways onto your roof. To deter them, focus on making roof access challenging by trimming tree branches to maintain a 10-foot clearance and cut back vines below roof edge. A permanent solution to keep them out of your attic is by screening roof vents with a heavy gauge screen and animal-proofing all vulnerable areas is highly effective. Regular maintenance and inspections are critical in maintaining an animal free home.
How Big Of A Hole Can A Squirrel Get Through?
Squirrels can squeeze through tiny openings, with their flexible bodies and compressible skulls enable passage through incredibly small spaces.
Squirrel Size and Hole Requirements
- Gray squirrels: Need holes the size of a tennis ball.
- Red squirrels: Need holes the size of a golf ball.
Can Squirrels Come Through The Ceiling?
Squirrels can inadvertently chew through ceilings while nesting in attics. Their incessant gnawing on drywall, often near light sources, creates holes. As light enters the dark attic, they may enlarge openings, potentially entering living spaces.
Key Points:
- Squirrels constant chewing on drywall makes holes in drywall.
- Light from lower rooms attracts squirrels to enlarged holes.
- Unintentional ceiling breaches provide access into house
How Do I Get Squirrels Out Of My House?
For effective and compassionate squirrel removal, consider enlisting Gates Wildlife Control’s services. Their comprehensive approach ensures humane treatment and long-term prevention.
Free On-Site Inspection
Gates Wildlife Control provides complimentary property assessments to identify:
- Entry points
- Squirrel activity
- Potential vulnerabilities
Expert Removal Process
- Attic inspection for baby squirrels
- Installation of one-way doors for safe exit
- Reuniting baby squirrels with their other outside
- Securing entry holes (water-tight seal)
- Screening roof vents and vulnerable areas
Benefits
- Humane treatment
- Effective exclusion
- Prevents re-entry of animals
- Customized solutions
- Professional expertise
Why Choose Gates Wildlife Control?
Gates Wildlife Control offers expert, humane wildlife removal services, with 40+ years of experience. Our certified wildlife specialists employ non-invasive methods, providing customer-centric solutions focused on long-term wildlife prevention and exclusion strategies.
- Humane wildlife removal for 40+ years
- Experienced wildlife specialists
- Non-invasive methods
- Long-term prevention strategies
- Customer-centric service
Additional Tips For Effective Squirrel Control
To further safeguard your home against squirrel infestations, consider these essential measures:
Trim nearby trees and vines to reduce accessibility to your roof, as squirrels often use branches as a bridge to your home. Secure pet food and birdseed in squirrel-proof containers or store them in sealed bins to avoid attracting these pesky critters. Regularly inspect your roofline and roof vents for signs of damage or vulnerability, addressing any issues promptly to prevent squirrel entry. Additionally, keep your yard clean, removing debris and clutter that may attract squirrels.
By combining these measures with squirrel-proofing your roof and sealing entry points, you’ll create a comprehensive defence system against squirrel infestations.
