Pests Can Burrow Into Your Roof To Make a Nest
We all enjoy seeing wildlife in our yards — but these animals can sometimes cause serious damage to our homes, especially our roofs. From the tiniest insects to the most persistent rodents, animals can cause a surprising amount of trouble if they decide your property is their new home.
Common Culprits and the Damage They Cause
Squirrels and Rodents
Squirrels and rodents often chew through electrical wires, roof shingles, and insulation. This can create fire risks and unsanitary conditions inside your home.
Birds
While they appear harmless, birds can cause erosion with their acidic droppings and block gutters with their nests — leading to water damage over time.
Raccoons
Raccoons can tear off shingles and damage insulation. They are strong enough to rip open weakened areas of a roof to gain access to your attic.
Bats
Bats often roost in attics and under eaves. While they eat insects, their droppings (guano) can build up over time, causing bad odors, attracting more insects, and creating serious health risks.
Insects
Carpenter ants and termites are silent destroyers — they tunnel through wooden roof structures and siding, weakening your home’s integrity over time. Bees and wasps can build nests in eaves and under shingles, posing a stinging threat and potentially causing structural problems.
Burrowing Animals
Groundhogs, rabbits, and skunks can dig burrows around your foundation, destabilizing it and creating pathways for other pests to enter your home.
Climbing Vines
Climbing vines may look attractive but if left unchecked, they trap moisture against your siding — leading to rot and providing pathways for insects.
Pets
Even our own pets can cause damage. Dogs scratch at doors and siding, while cats can get stuck on roofs and damage screens.
Prevention is Key
Protecting your home from animal damage is an ongoing effort. Here are the most effective steps you can take:
- Seal entry points — Regularly inspect your roof, fascia, soffits, and foundation for cracks, holes, or gaps. Seal them promptly with durable materials animals can’t easily chew through.
- Trim trees and shrubs — Keep branches at least 6–8 feet away from your roof to prevent easy access for climbing animals.
- Secure trash cans — Use tight-fitting lids to avoid attracting rodents and scavengers.
- Install animal deterrents — Motion-activated sprinklers, ultrasonic devices, or animal repellents can help in areas prone to activity.
- Keep gutters clean — Regular cleaning prevents blockages that attract pests and cause water damage.
- Inspect regularly — Make it a habit to periodically check your roof and the outside of your home for signs of animal activity or damage.
When to Call a Professional
Each year, pests inflict thousands of dollars in damage to roofs. By the time pests settle in, repair costs can skyrocket — homeowners often face the added expense of hiring exterminators on top of roof repairs.
If you suspect a significant animal infestation, call a professional wildlife removal service. They have the expertise and equipment to safely and humanely remove animals and repair any damage.
Maine ProRoofing offers affordable roof repair, maintenance, and installation services to help you avoid extensive damage. During a consultation, we’ll provide an estimate to help you make an informed decision.
Call us at (207) 402-9047
Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm
Serving Southern Maine