If your home in Pittsburgh has fallen victim to squirrels gnawing away at your attic, wires, or wooden structures, you’re not alone. These highly active animals are notorious for damaging properties across the area. Squirrel damage prevention isn’t just about protecting your home—it’s about reclaiming peace of mind. 

At Skedaddle, we know firsthand how challenging this can be. That’s why we’re here to offer practical solutions to help you safeguard your property from the start.

Common Problems Caused by Squirrels in Pittsburgh Homes

Squirrels can sneak into homes through some surprisingly small gaps—often as tiny as two inches—and cause significant damage faster than many homeowners realize. Here are some of the most common problems they cause:

• Chewed Electrical Wiring  

Squirrels have teeth that never stop growing, which drives their constant need to chew on hard surfaces. Unfortunately, your home’s electrical wiring can become an easy target. Damaged wires can spark costly repairs, electrical outages, and even fires.

• Destroyed Insulation  

Once inside your attic, squirrels tear through insulation to build their nests. This not only destroys the insulation’s function to regulate temperature but can also lead to higher energy bills. Feces and urine in the insulation also create a health hazard.

• Damaged Wooden Structures  

From rooflines to attic beams, squirrels gnaw on wooden components to sharpen their teeth and gain entry into your home. This can weaken your home’s structural integrity over time.

• Health and Safety Hazards  

Squirrels bring fleas, ticks, and other parasites into your home, as well as bacteria left behind in their droppings. These pose risks to both your family and pets.

One local homeowner from Mount Washington shared, “We noticed squirrels chewing through our garage door molding, and within no time, they were nesting in our attic! It was overwhelming until we brought in professionals.”

Understanding these issues is the first step in preventing further damage.

Squirrel Damage Prevention Pittsburgh Homeowners Should Know

Keeping squirrels out of your home starts with prevention. By addressing entry points and minimizing attractants, you can reduce the chances of them making themselves at home on your property. Here are the steps we recommend:

• Inspect Your Home Regularly  

Check your attic, roof, and exterior walls for holes, gaps, and chew marks. Focus on areas like soffits, fascia boards, and vents, as these are common entry points. Don’t forget about your chimney—squirrels are skilled climbers!

• Seal All Possible Entry Points  

Use heavy-duty materials like galvanized steel mesh to cover even the smallest gaps. Fill cracks in the foundation, patch up broken vents, and secure any loose roofing to ensure there’s no way for squirrels to get inside. Avoid soft or chewable materials like wood or plastic, as these won’t deter squirrels.

• Trim Tree Branches Close to Your Roof  

Squirrels use trees as literal launch pads to access homes. Keep branches trimmed at least six feet away from your roofline to make it more difficult for them to get onto your house.

• Use Squirrel-Proof Materials  

Consider upgrading parts of your home’s exterior with squirrel-resistant materials. For instance, replace wooden fascia boards with metal or vinyl alternatives that squirrels are less likely to chew on.

• Secure Trash and Food Sources  

Squirrels are resourceful and will get into unsecured garbage, bird feeders, or pet food left outside. Use lids with locking mechanisms for your trash bins and opt for squirrel-proof bird feeders. It’s important to eliminate any easy food sources around your home.

• Repurpose Natural Deterrents  

Products like capsicum sprays and fox urine can deter squirrels from chewing on specific areas of your home. These repellents need to be reapplied periodically, especially after rain.

By implementing these preventative measures, protecting homes from squirrels in Pittsburgh becomes much easier. Prevention is always more effective than mitigation after damage occurs.

Squirrel-Proofing Solutions Pittsburgh Homes Should Utilize

Once you’ve taken the initial steps to secure your property, it’s time to explore squirrel-proofing strategies designed for long-term success. These measures are particularly beneficial for properties in areas with dense squirrel populations, such as South Side Flats or Squirrel Hill. (Yes, the irony isn’t lost on us!)

• Install Heavy Duty Screens

Many homes in Pittsburgh use mesh screens on vents, but if those screens are thin or loose, they won’t keep squirrels out for long. Opt for heavy-duty galvanized steel screens to block attic vents, chimneys, and openings along the roofline.

• Reinforce Eaves and Roof Edges

Squirrels can chew through shingles, wood, or plastic soffits to create openings. Reinforce these sections with sturdy materials like sheet metal or hardware cloth. This often deters squirrels before they even attempt to enter.

• Create Physical Deterrents Around Your Home

Cylindrical squirrel baffles placed on drainpipes and trees prevent access to rooftops. Additionally, installing spikes or slippery materials along ledges discourages squirrels from climbing.

• Utilize Squirrel Deterrent Systems

There are motion-activated devices that emit ultrasonic sounds to keep squirrels away. While these systems can be effective, they should be used alongside proper home sealing for best results.

Pro Tip: Reach out to local specialists who understand Pittsburgh’s unique wildlife challenges. We’ve worked on homes across the area for decades and know how to customize solutions to meet specific property needs.

Protecting Homes From Squirrels Pittsburgh Families Count On

At Skedaddle, we’ve dedicated years to helping families in Pittsburgh keep their homes safe from wildlife damage. Our experience shows us that no two homes are the same, which is why we emphasize customized prevention strategies. Plus, we use humane techniques that respect the animals while ensuring your property remains secure.

We’ve seen it all—whether it’s squirrel activity in a historic neighborhood like Lawrenceville or a modern property overlooking the Monongahela River. Our process includes:

• Conducting a detailed assessment to identify vulnerabilities.
• Professionally securing all entry points with durable materials.
• Sanitizing contaminated areas to restore your home’s safety.

Safeguard your home with simple yet effective measures that stand the test of time.

When Is it Time to Contact Skedaddle for Squirrel Removal Services?

The best time to contact Skedaddle for squirrel removal services is as soon as you notice any signs of squirrel activity in your home. Common indicators include scratching noises in the attic, chewed wiring or insulation, droppings, and visible entry points. These are all clear warnings that immediate action is necessary to prevent the problem from worsening. 

Squirrels are especially active during the early mornings and evenings in the spring and fall, as these are the times when they gather food and search for suitable nesting sites. These seasons are also when young squirrels are born, making it even more important to address infestations promptly to avoid larger nests and the potential health risks they bring.

Taking swift action when you detect squirrel intrusions helps to minimize property damage and ensures they do not establish a permanent presence in your home. Skedaddle’s humane removal methods are designed to safely and effectively handle squirrel infestations without harm to the animals or the surrounding environment. Even if the signs of activity seem minor, acting quickly can prevent the situation from escalating into an expensive repair or cleanup effort. 

Don’t wait for the problem to grow worse; contact Skedaddle at the first sign of trouble for professional assistance that brings peace of mind and lasting solutions. Protecting your home begins with timely and proactive measures.

Take Action to Protect Your Pittsburgh Home Today

Don’t wait until a squirrel creates chaos in your attic or chews through your crucial electrical wiring. Prevention is far easier—and much more cost-effective—than dealing with extensive repairs after the fact. 

Reach out to us at Skedaddle for expert advice and services to keep squirrels (and costly damages) out of your home. With our team’s proven strategies and local expertise, you can enjoy true peace of mind knowing your property is safe.

Get started today—your home deserves it.