The Damages Squirrels Can Cause to Your Home

Squirrels, those cute and seemingly harmless creatures, can wreak havoc on your home in ways you might not even realize. While they may be fun to watch as they scurry about your yard or climb trees, these furry little creatures can be a nuisance when they decide to make your home their own. In this blog, we’ll explore the damages squirrels can cause to your home and why it’s important to address the issue promptly.

Chewed Wiring

Squirrels have a strong need to chew to keep their teeth from growing too long. Unfortunately, this instinct can lead them to gnaw on electrical wiring within your home. This not only poses a fire hazard but can also result in expensive repair bills, as damaged wiring often needs to be replaced entirely.

Structural Damage

Squirrels are known to gnaw on wood, shingles, and other building materials. This can lead to structural damage over time, weakening the integrity of your home. In some cases, they may even gain access to your attic, walls, or crawl spaces, creating entry points for other pests and compromising your home’s security.

Roof Damage

Squirrels are excellent climbers and can access your roof with ease. Once there, they may chew on shingles, creating openings for water to seep in during rainy weather. Over time, this can result in water damage, mold growth, and even compromised insulation.

Garden Destruction

Squirrels are known for their love of digging up gardens and flowerbeds in search of buried nuts and other food sources. If you’re an avid gardener, these critters can be a constant source of frustration, as they may destroy your carefully cultivated plants and vegetables.

Noise and Disturbance

Squirrels are not quiet houseguests. They can create a lot of noise with their constant scurrying, scratching, and nesting activities. If they’ve taken up residence in your attic or walls, their noises can be a constant annoyance, affecting your peace and quality of life.

Health Hazards

Squirrels can carry diseases, and their droppings can transmit various pathogens. If they’ve infested your home, they may leave behind contaminated droppings that can pose health risks to you and your family.

Nesting Material

Squirrels often build nests out of various materials, including insulation, which they may strip from your walls or attic. This not only compromises your home’s insulation but also creates a mess that needs to be cleaned up.

Increased Energy Bills

If squirrels have damaged your home’s insulation or created entry points for drafts, you may experience increased energy bills. Your HVAC system will need to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature, costing you more money in the long run.

How to Protect Your Home

So, what can you do to protect your home from squirrel-related damages? Here are some steps to consider:

Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any openings that squirrels could use to gain access. Seal these gaps and cracks to prevent their entry.

Trim Trees and Branches: If you have trees close to your home, trim branches that squirrels might use to access your roof or attic.

Use Squirrel-Proofing Techniques: Consider using deterrents like wire mesh or squirrel-proof bird feeders to discourage squirrels from nesting or foraging in your yard.

Seek Professional Help: If you already have a squirrel problem, consider contacting a pest control or wildlife removal specialist to safely and effectively address the issue.

Professional Squirrel Removal in Maryland

Squirrels may be adorable, but the damages they can cause to your home are not to be underestimated. If a squirrel has invaded your home, let the animal removal experts of Bay Area Wildlife Solutions remove it for you. We remove pesky critters quickly, efficiently, and, most importantly, humanely so you can get back to your peace of mind at home. Contact us now to schedule an appointment.