Keeping squirrels out of the home is a good idea. They will ruin the insulation within the attic, contaminating the air with dangerous pathogens and driving energy costs up. While they may look cute, squirrels are very destructive, and they carry infectious diseases. Keeping them out however can be rather difficult. These are determined pests that will do whatever they can to get inside. The key to a squirrel-free home is to pest-proof the right places with the right materials. For guaranteed squirrel-proofing and removal services, call Squirrel Control Toronto.
Squirrels are omnivorous rodents that can be found all over the world. The two most common species in Canada are the eastern grey squirrel and the red squirrel. The eastern grey is the largest of the two, with a head and body measuring up to 30cm in length and weighing as much as 500g. Grey squirrels are either fully black or grey with a paler belly. The red squirrel’s head and body measures only up to 23cm and weighs about 330g. This squirrel has red fur, tufts on the ends of its ears and a shorter tail. Red squirrels are more common in areas with coniferous trees.
Squirrels are persistent creatures that can absolutely chew their way through spray foam insulation. As rodents, squirrels have incredibly strong teeth that can tear through wood, plastic, rubber, vinyl, aluminum, and drywall. Insulating the attic with spray foam thus cannot be relied on to keep the pests out. Squirrels are attracted to attics because they are warm and, like trees, they are above ground. A female squirrel looking for a place to nest will exploit any weakness she finds on the roof, regardless of the insulation type inside. She will get in by chewing through roof vents, climbing down the chimney, or gnawing her way through a hole in the roof.
To keep squirrels away from the roof, start by making your property less attractive. Keep the yard tidy and mow the lawn on a regular basis. Remove bird feeders, pick up fallen fruit, and cover your vegetable garden with row covers. Use lidded garbage cans and cut tree branches a few feet away from the roof. Clean the gutters. Then, cap your wall vents, roof vents, plumbing vents, and chimneys with 16-gauge, galvanized steel mesh. This material is strong enough to resist squirrels. Check if your roof needs repairing and consider strengthening its edges with mesh or metal flashing.
If you are currently dealing with a squirrel invasion, call a pest removal company for help. A technician can identify the entry point the animals are using and any other weak spots that could be exploited in the future. Professionals are trained and experienced in the safe removal of squirrels. They can also pest-proof the structure of your home for you. Professionals have access to galvanized steel mesh and other products to keep the animals out. Call Squirrel Control for efficient and affordable squirrel control: 647-496-0815.