Imagine this: You’re relaxing at home one evening, and you hear strange noises near your back door or an upstairs window. Could it be raccoons? You might wonder, “Can raccoons open doors and windows?” Here’s the surprising truth: Yes, they absolutely can. 

These determined animals are equipped with sharp claws, nimble paws, and incredible problem-solving skills. That means they can push through unlocked doors, slide open windows, and even maneuver latches if given the opportunity. For homeowners in Pickerington, this can lead to big headaches, which is why wildlife control in Pickerington is a must.

Now, picture this problem growing worse. Raccoons and window entry go hand-in-hand, especially when they’re searching for warmth, food, or a safe shelter. An open window, a poorly latched screen, or even a pet door can act like a welcome mat for these clever intruders. Once inside, raccoons can create messes, damage your property, and leave behind health risks. 

Fortunately, there’s no need to panic. At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Pickerington, we specialize in helping families protect their homes by addressing issues like raccoon entry swiftly and effectively. With the right solutions, you can outsmart even the craftiest raccoons and keep your home safe.

Why Are Raccoons Such Skilled Intruders?

Raccoons are surprisingly intelligent animals. Their problem-solving skills and dexterous paws are comparable to those of primates. This makes it possible for them to unlock basic latches or push open doors that aren’t fully secured. Here are a few reasons why they’re so good at breaking in:

• Dexterity: Raccoons have remarkable paw strength and flexibility, allowing them to grip and turn objects like door handles or window locks.
• Curiosity: These animals are naturally curious and relentless. If they suspect food or shelter inside your home, they’ll explore every possible entry point.
• Persistence: Once a raccoon sets its sights on gaining access to your house, it won’t give up easily. They’ll test doors, windows, and other weak spots until they find a way in.

This combination of traits is why raccoons and window entry go hand in hand, leading frustrated homeowners to look for reliable ways to keep them out.

Common Entry Points for Raccoons

Raccoons are resourceful and can use a variety of entry points to get into homes. Understanding where these animals gain access is the first step to protecting your home. Here’s a list of some of their favorite spots:

• Doors: Unlocked sliding doors or garage doors that don’t close completely can invite raccoons right inside. Even lightweight doors can be pushed open if they’re not properly latched.
• Windows: Open or cracked windows, especially ones without sturdy screens, are easy targets. Raccoons can also climb to access higher-level windows if branches or nearby objects provide a pathway.
• Vents and Chimneys: Roof vents and uncapped chimneys can act like open doorways for raccoons.
• Pet Doors: If you have a door designed for your dog or cat, raccoons can figure out how to use it as an entrance.
• Weakened Structures: Any part of your home with loose or damaged siding, roof shingles, or soffits can turn into an entry point.

By securing these areas, you can reduce the chances of unwelcome visitors. Our team at Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Pickerington specializes in helping homeowners identify and fortify these vulnerable spots.

What Happens Once Raccoons Get Inside?

When raccoons make it into your home, the results can be messy and expensive. Here are some of the issues they can cause:

• Damage: They may scratch walls, tear insulation, and chew through wires, creating a potential fire hazard.
• Health Risks: Raccoons can carry diseases like rabies and parasites, such as roundworms, that can pose serious risks to your family and pets.
• Food Theft: They’ll raid pantries, garbage bins, or pet food, leaving a trail of destruction.

If you’re dealing with raccoons indoors, it’s important to act quickly. We ensure the problem is addressed efficiently and humanely.

How Skedaddle’s One-Way Doors Work

One of the most effective methods we use at Skedaddle is installing one-way doors. These devices allow raccoons to exit your home but prevent them from re-entering. Here’s how they work:

• Assessment: We inspect your home to find all possible entry points.
• Installation: A one-way door is placed on the primary entrance raccoons are using.
• Sealing: Once the animals have left, we seal all entry points to prevent future problems.
• Cleanup: We also clean and decontaminate affected areas to minimize health risks and odors.

This method is humane, effective, and ensures that you won’t face the same problem again.

Keeping Raccoons Out for Good

After addressing an immediate raccoon issue, it’s essential to take preventive measures. Here are some tips to keep your home raccoon-free:

• Secure Doors and Windows: Always lock doors and windows. Install sturdy screens, especially on lower-level windows. It’s also a good idea to check that your locks and latches are in good working order. For added security, consider reinforcing sliding doors with a bar or rod to prevent them from being opened.
• Trim Trees and Shrubs: Cut back branches that raccoons could use to access your roof or upper windows. Keep all tree limbs at least five feet away from your house to stop raccoons from jumping onto your roof. Also, remove overgrown shrubs near your home to eliminate potential hiding spots.
• Seal Food and Trash: Store garbage in raccoon-proof containers and avoid leaving pet food outside. Use trash bins with locking lids and keep them in a secure location, like a garage or shed. If possible, rinse food containers before throwing them out to reduce smells that can attract animals.
• Inspect Your Home Regularly: Look for signs of damage or potential entry points, such as loose vents or gaps around pipes. Check your roof and foundation for cracks or holes where a raccoon could squeeze through. Repairs should be made quickly to avoid giving raccoons an opportunity to move in.

When you work with us, we’ll provide personalized recommendations to ensure your home stays secure.

What to Do If You Have a Raccoon Problem?

If you suspect raccoons are accessing your home through doors, windows, or other entry points, don’t wait to address the issue. DIY methods are not reliable and can even make the problem worse. Instead, trust our professionals at Skedaddle.

Our team has years of experience in wildlife control, and we know how to handle raccoons safely and effectively. Our humane solutions, including one-way doors, protect your home while ensuring the animals can leave without harm.

Secure Your Home Today

Don’t let raccoons take over your home. If you’re wondering, “Can raccoons open doors or windows?” the answer is yes—but there’s good news. You can prevent it with the right help. At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Pickerington, we’re here to provide expert solutions that protect your home and family from these clever intruders.

Request an estimate today to learn more about how we can help. Our team is ready to make your home raccoon-free with safe, effective, and long-lasting methods. Reach out to Skedaddle in Pickerington and take the first step toward peace of mind.