roof edge squirrel damage

Can Squirrels Chew Through to Get Into an Attic?

The quick answer to whether squirrels in Canada can chew through to get into the attic is; Yes, although the animals prefer existing holes and will get in through these if available. Common examples include gaps under the eves and missing vent screens.

Wildlife primarily breaks into the attic to breed. This is a warm, secure and isolated space perfect for bringing up baby squirrels. The wildlife is more determined than ever to break in during baby season so they will create entry holes if none exist.

Squirrels have a good eye for weaknesses and will expand tiny holes or exploit rotting wood. They can sense air coming out of the attic and chew through the area to create an entry point. The animal only needs to fit its head into the hole and the rest of the body will squeeze through. Any hole 1 ½ inch wide or more is a possible entrance for the critters.

Like all rodents, squirrels are efficient at chewing. The chewing doesn’t stop once the animals have broken into the attic. Rodent teeth continue to grow throughout their life and they need to trim them often. This is the main reason for their destructive nature. The squirrels will continue to chew on insulation, wires, plastic piping, drywall, trim, wooden support beams, and much more. It is not unheard of for a squirrel in the attic to chew right through a plastered ceiling.

Hire a Professional to Remove Squirrels in the Attic

Squirrels in the attic are a matter of urgency. You can be sure they are destroying the attic and the damage can be extensive if left to go on long enough.

Do not attempt to seal squirrel entry points without first making sure that there are no animals inside. Baby squirrels must be removed by hand. Otherwise, you’ll suffer the stench of rotting corpses after the animals die of dehydration and starvation. The squirrels may also get desperate and cause huge damage while attempting to escape from the sealed nest.

Squirrel feces and urine carry many disease-causing organisms and attract other wildlife. You also need to clean and disinfect the attic before sealing.

Hire a professional squirrel removal service in Toronto to seal all entry points, evict the animals including the babies, repair damage, and clean and disinfect after successful removal. Only an expert can guarantee that the animals are removed safely, humanely, and permanently. Ask for a warranty of at least two years before work begins.

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