Squirrels are cute creatures to watch as they gracefully jump on tree branches. However, when these furry acrobats decide to make a home in your gutters and chew through them, the charm quickly fades. Squirrel-related damage to gutters can be a significant headache for homeowners, leading to costly repairs.
In this article, we will tackle the issue of squirrels chewing on gutters and causing damage. We’ll also offer practical tips on how to prevent and control these unwanted guests. So, if you’re interested to know more, keep reading!
Why Are Squirrels Chewing On My Gutters?
Let’s start by unraveling the mystery of why squirrels chew gutters. It’s not just random destruction. Squirrels are naturally inquisitive animals, and they have a few good reasons for nibbling on your gutters:
Teething: Just like human babies, squirrels go through teething. They need to chew to keep their teeth from growing too long, and your gutters are a convenient chew toy. The gutter is an excellent source of material to gnaw on.
Nesting Material: Squirrels might also see your gutters as a handy source of building material for their nests. They’ll often chew and tear apart various materials to create a cozy nest, making your gutters the perfect target.
Territorial Marking: Squirrels are territorial creatures, and they may chew on your gutters to mark their territory. This territorial behavior is more common during mating seasons.
Do Squirrels Chew On Gutters Year-Round, Or Is This Behavior Seasonal?
Squirrel behavior can vary depending on the time of year. While they may chew on gutters year-round, some patterns are worth noting:
Mating Season: As already mentioned, you might notice more damage during their mating season. Squirrels become more active and territorial during this time, which is typically in late winter or early spring.
Nesting Behavior: Squirrels may build nests at various times of the year, which could lead to year-round chewing activity. They will chew on gutters throughout the year, especially if they’re preparing for the arrival of their young. Your gutters make an attractive prospect for nesting materials.
Winter Shelter: During winter, squirrels are more likely to seek shelter in your gutters, as it provides warmth and protection from the cold.
How Can I Tell If Squirrels Are Causing Damage To My Gutters?
Identifying squirrel damage to your gutters is crucial for taking appropriate action. Keep an eye out for these signs:
Chewed Edges: Squirrels leave distinctive gnaw marks on the edges of gutters. These marks often look rough and irregular.
Missing Gutter Pieces: If you notice pieces of your gutter are missing or scattered around your yard, it’s a clear indication of squirrel activity.
Nesting Material: Squirrels often leave behind bits of nesting material like leaves, twigs, and even insulation in the gutter.
Squirrel Droppings: If you find squirrel droppings in or around your gutters, it’s a sure sign of their presence.
Scratching Sounds: You might hear scratching or scurrying noises, particularly during the morning and evening, which could indicate squirrel activity.
What Kind Of Damage Can Squirrels Chewing On Gutters Cause To My Home?
Homeowners often underestimate the severity of squirrel damage to their gutters. But even though squirrels are small, their impact on your gutters can be significant. Here’s a look at the potential extent of damage caused by their chewing:
Water Damage: Continuous gnawing can weaken the integrity of your gutters. Damaged gutters can’t efficiently direct rainwater away from your home. This can lead to leaks, water infiltration, foundation damage, and basement flooding.
Roof Damage: Chewed gutters can also harm your roof, allowing water to seep under shingles and cause structural issues.
Cosmetic Consequences: Chewed gutters can make your home look shabby. The unsightly appearance can significantly decrease your home’s curb appeal.
Pest Problems: Squirrels can create entry points for other pests, such as insects or even other squirrels, to access your attic or other parts of your home. Accumulated debris in gutters can also lead to mosquito breeding, potentially increasing the risk of diseases.
What Should I Do If I Discover A Squirrel Nest In My Gutters?
Discovering a squirrel nest in your gutters is a clear sign that it’s time to act. Here’s how to deal with this situation:
Prioritize Safety: Make sure you wear gloves and take necessary precautions. Squirrels have a tendency to become defensive if they feel threatened.
Professional Assistance: Catch the squirrels with bait and a live animal trap. However, your best bet is to call a wildlife removal expert who can safely remove the nest and any squirrels.
Seal Entry Points: After the squirrels are removed, it’s crucial to seal any entry points to prevent them from returning.
Clean And Repair: Clean the gutters thoroughly and repair any damage. Make sure there is no debris or nesting material left behind.
How To Prevent Squirrels From Chewing On Your Gutters
Prevention is the key to avoiding squirrel-related gutter damage. Here are some effective tips to keep squirrels away:
- Install gutter guards or screens to physically block access to your gutters.
- Trim overhanging branches. Squirrels often use overhanging branches to access your roof and gutters. Trim these branches back to create a barrier.
- Consider using squirrel repellents, such as sprays or ultrasonic devices, near your gutters.
- Keep food sources away. Ensure there are no food sources in your yard, like bird feeders or open trash cans, which can attract squirrels.
- Inspect your home for any potential entry points, such as holes or gaps. Seal them to prevent these pesky rodents from gaining access to your attic, roof, and gutters.
Professional Pest Control Is Your Go-To Solution
While the preventive measures listed above can help you deter squirrels from chewing on your gutters, the most effective way to handle a squirrel problem is to hire professional pest and wildlife control services.
These experts have the knowledge, experience, and tools to safely remove squirrels and ensure your home is free from any infestation.
Squirrel-related gutter damage is not something to take lightly. Ignoring the problem can lead to expensive repairs, health risks, and structural damage to your house.
By understanding why squirrels chew gutters, recognizing their presence, and taking proactive steps to prevent their intrusion, you can safeguard your home and maintain its aesthetic appeal.
So, take action today and contact our local team of specialists at Peachtree Pest Control in Atlanta, GA. Don’t wait until the problem escalates! Let us secure your home from squirrel-related gutter damage and ensure your peace of mind.