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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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6 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:
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My good friend Mario Macero fixed the damage the rodents and the woodpeckers made to my attic, roof, and chimney including breaking the flashing lining the roof. Please contact Mario Macero or me if you need any home renovations.
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More repairs done from Mario Macero.
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