As nature enthusiasts, it’s easy to get caught up in the magic of wildlife visiting our homes. We all love to see squirrels leaping from tree to tree, their bushy tails swaying in the breeze. But did you know that these seemingly innocent animals can cause damage to your home? They might be cute, but they can be a destructive force when they decide to move in. From chewing through insulation to causing electrical fires, these animals can wreak havoc on your property.
This is where humane wildlife control and squirrel removal services are a must. If you’re experiencing an invasion, it’s important to address the issue before it causes serious damage. By relying on Skedaddle for humane wildlife removal in Anoka County, you can safely and effectively remove them from your home and prevent further destruction in the future. With the right approach, you can protect your property while still respecting the beauty of the natural world.
Unraveling the Mystery: How Squirrels Enter Your Home
Squirrels are cunning animals and can find seemingly impossible ways to gain entry to your homes. A common entry point for them is through the roof, particularly around the eaves. They can chew through wooden fascia boards or squeeze through small existing gaps. They can also enter homes through unscreened vents or openings in the roof line of your house such as the areas around chimneys or plumbing vents.
Why the attic? Many homeowners are puzzled about why these animals are so attracted to attics. The reason is simple: an attic mimics the natural environment that they prefer – the trees. An attic’s cozy, warm, and safe environment is very inviting to them, particularly during harsh weather conditions.
Unseen Dangers: Squirrels and Electrical Fires
Likely the most frightening threat these animals pose is the risk of electrical fires. They have a propensity for gnawing and their sharp incisors never stop growing, meaning they are constantly on the prowl for something to chew on. In your attic, that ‘something’ can be electrical insulation. If a squirrel chews through this insulation, it exposes live electrical wires. These can spark, potentially leading to an electrical fire.
Additional Destruction: Squirrels in Insulation and Water Pipes
Moreover, they are likely to damage insulation when they burrow into it to create nests. Torn-apart insulation can lead to higher energy bills, as your home’s heat efficiency is compromised. This not only racks up your utility bills but also requires costly repairs to replace the ruined insulation.
Equally damaging, they have a knack for gnawing on pipes, seeing them much as they would a tree branch. In doing that, they can cause significant water damage. They can chew small holes into PVC and plastic pipes, leading to slow leaks that may go unnoticed until significant damage has been done.
While they may seem adorable, the damage they can do to a home is far from cute. At Skedaddle, we specialize in the humane removal of these animals to protect your home. Contact us today for a home inspection and let us help protect your property from the destructive potential of squirrels.
The Cost of Negligence: Financial Impact of Squirrel Infestation
When squirrels invade your home, they can cause significant damage that often comes with a considerable price tag. Neglecting an infestation is never advisable, as the financial implications can be severe. From ruined insulation to compromised electrical wire to damaged water pipes, the costs can quickly spiral.
Repair costs: Beyond the immediate damage, they can leave your home needing costly repairs. For example, if a squirrel has chewed through the wooden roof or fascia boards, replacing these is not only costly but also labor intensive. Similarly, compromised water pipes or electrical wires require professional assistance to mend, depending on the severity of the damage.
Utility bills: Furthermore, damaged insulation can lead to a rise in your heating or cooling bills. Insulation maintains the temperature inside your home, thereby conserving energy. A heavily infested attic could lead to significantly higher energy bills before you even notice the infestation.
Home resale value: If the damage is extensive, infestations can also have a noteworthy impact on your home’s resale value. Prospective homebuyers might be deterred by the revelations of previous infestations, particularly if there was significant damage. While this damage can indeed be repaired, the history of infestation may cast a shadow on the property’s market value.
Health risks: The financial impact is not only confined to the tangible damage caused by squirrels but also potentially to your health. Like other wildlife, they can carry a variety of diseases that may pose a risk to humans. Any hospital visits or medicines required due to these diseases should be considered as part of the financial implications of an infestation.
Proactive Prevention: Strategies to Protect Your Home from Squirrels
Prevention is always better than cure. To safeguard your house from an unwanted squirrel invasion, there are several strategies that you can implement. With proper preventative measures, you can ensure your home stays squirrel-free and in its best condition.
Seal Potential Entrance Points
They are crafty climbers and can squeeze through small openings in your house. It’s important to inspect your home regularly for any potential access points. These often include the eaves, fascia boards, chimneys, and unscreened vents. Make sure you seal these entry points properly to prevent them from entering. Consider utilizing professional wildlife exclusion services for a thorough, effective job.
Maintain Your Yard
A well-kept yard can also deter them. Keep your trees and shrubs trimmed and away from the house as these can act as bridges for squirrels to gain access to your roof. If you have bird feeders, place them away from your home as they can attract them. Additionally, ensure your trash bins are securely closed to avoid enticing squirrels.
Consider A Wildlife-Proof Vent Cap
Installing wildlife-proof vent caps can be a good preventive measure. They cover your home’s exterior vents, preventing wildlife from entering while still allowing the proper air circulation your home needs. Ensure these are installed properly and check them occasionally for any damage.
Use Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders
If bird watching is a passion, and your feeders are attracting inquisitive squirrels, consider investing in squirrel-proof bird feeders. These feeders are designed to keep them out, ensuring that the birdseed does not act as a lure for these agile climbers.
Invest In Regular Professional Inspections
Last but not least, regular professional inspections can be a key factor in squirrel control. Wildlife control experts are trained to identify signs of infestation that may be easily overlooked. Thus, regular checks can help ensure that any initial signs of squirrels making a home on your property are quickly recognized and remedied.
Being proactive in your approach to squirrel control can save you from costly damages and potential health hazards. By following these strategies, you can keep your home safe and secure. At Skedaddle, we are always on hand to help with humane wildlife control strategies, so don’t hesitate to contact us for guidance.
Call Skedaddle for Humane Wildlife Removal in Anoka County
If you’re ready to take control of your squirrel problem and protect your home from the unforeseen damages caused by these agile animals, don’t hesitate. Act now! Skedaddle has your back. We understand the extent of destruction squirrels can cause and have the expertise to humanely remove them from your property. Entrust your home’s safety to the experts. Contact Skedaddle today.
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