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Damage to House By Squirrels and Wood Peckers
I had rodents, probably squirrels bust out a hole in the attic area of my house 🏠 and call my attic their home. Like squatters and illegal immigrants. To compound the problem, i have woodpeckers puncturing holes in and around the same area. My house needs a lot of renovation and right now, I am going to get my good friend Dejan Ivenovic (Dan) patch it up where I am more worried about safety rather than cosmetics. In the spring, we can do it the right way.
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4 Replies
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While dealing with squirrels and woodpeckers can be difficult, taking proactive measures towards the problem will help avoid further complications. Here are some steps you can follow:
Evaluate the Damage
Examine the Attic:
- Attempt to search the attic for indications of damage, such as droppings and possible entry points.
- Also, look for any forms of nests, insulation damage, and wood or other structural damage.
Investigate for Other Infestations:
- Check for other pests in the attic, such as rats or mice, as they can worsen the situation.
Block Access Points
Close-Off Spaces:
- Tell your friend Dan to close off the holes left by the squirrels as best as he can.
- Permanent rodent-proofing materials such as metal mesh or steel wool can be used.
- Caps and vents can also be placed over screens and chimneys to block future access.
Remove Sources of Infestation
Cut Off Tree Branches:
- If branches extend closer to the roof, cut them off to limit squirrels’ access to your attic.
- Seal all garbage pails and keep pet food indoors to prevent attracting rodents.
Rectify Woodpecker Infestation
Recognize Places of Interest:
- Woodpeckers find the sight of insects and the sound of drumming extremely appealing.
- Do a damage inspection and treat any insect infestations.
Apply Sharpened Tools:
- A reflective object or plastic owls deter woodpeckers from pecking at your property.
- Bird spikes are also helpful.
Temporary Adjustments
In the Attic:
- Please start with the attic to ensure it is well secured.
- If it is contaminated, demolition, insulation, and structural adjustments must be made during stabilization.
Catching Arrows:
- If the structure is exposed to the environment, putting in blocks where the squirrels and woodpeckers have caused damage can effectively stop further destruction.
Ongoing Maintenance:
- Trim trees and remove potential food sources to keep squirrels and woodpeckers away.
- Taking swift action to repair the damage squirrels and woodpeckers cause to your home will increase the likelihood of minimizing the damage.
Focus on self-repairs and preventative measures now, and plan for the bigger renovations come spring. Proper action can mitigate the damage while maintaining proper living standards.
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What type of metal mesh is best for patching rodent holes?
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When wire mesh is used, it is exceedingly essential to consider the purpose of keeping rodents out. Therefore, when wire mesh is used, it must be made out of a sufficiently sturdy material. Here are the most suitable types of metal mesh to achieve the goal of rodent blocking:
Hardware Cloth
Material:
- Hardware cloth is manufactured using welded wire and is very durable.
Mesh Size:
- A mesh size equal to or below 1/4 inch should be used, as it adequately protects rodents, including mice and small rats, from slipping through the walls.
Usage:
- Hardware cloth is versatile, stable, and moldable, easily covering holes, vents, and other access points.
Galvanized Steel Wire Mesh
Material:
- Galvanized steel does not rust and is highly durable.
Mesh Size:
- To prevent rodents, mice, and small rats from slipping through the walls, a mesh size equal to or below 1/4 inch should be used.
Usage:
- It is best suited for outdoor areas where moisture is likely to get access.
Stainless Steel Mesh
Material:
- Because stainless steel does not rust and corrode, it is ideal for use over extended periods.
Mesh Size:
- A mesh size equal to or below 1/4 inch should be used to prevent rodents, mice, and small rats from slipping through the walls.
Usage:
- While pricey, it is exceedingly durable.
- This, along with areas where style is considered, makes it an ideal solution.
Expanded Metal Mesh
Material:
- Expanded metal is created from a single sheet of metal cut and stretched.
- Due to its cut and stretched structure, it is extremely long-lasting and strong.
Mesh Size:
- The mesh openings must be small to prevent rodents from infiltrating.
Usage:
- Expanded metal mesh is good for covering larger holes and can also be used to reinforce structures.
Tips for Patching Rodent Holes
Secure Installation:
- To ensure a secure mesh installation, nails and screws should be used.
- The mesh also needs to be tight against the surface for proper installation.
Seal Edges:
- An expanding foam sealant can be used for smaller openings while protecting the edges to eliminate the gaps on the edges further.
Regular Checks:
- After patching is completed, remaining alerts for new rodent activity help monitor the effectiveness of the patching.
The re-entry of rodents can be effectively blocked by the use of expanded metal mesh as long as it is fastened properly with screws or nails.
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Here is how to fix woodpecker damage to house: