How we Clear & Clean Squirrel Infestations
Squirrels might be small in stature but that doesn’t mean that can’t wreak havoc on your home and property. Their natural behaviour and activity inside your home can lead to damage and introduce harmful contaminants like ticks and fleas. As part of our service we go to great lengths to evaluate the extent of any damage the squirrels have caused. We then present our findings using photos and videos and provide you with a cleaning and clearing plan to help return your home back to a safe and liveable condition.
What Kind of Damage Can Squirrels Cause?
The type and amount of damage and contamination is largely dependent on where the squirrels have been living and for how long. It goes without saying that the longer squirrels are able to occupy your property the greater the risk for costly damage and increased need for remediation.
Attics are a common squirrel den site and provide many opportunities for costly damage. Squirrel attic damage often includes:
- Trampled, displaced and soiled attic insulation
- Chewed wood and electrical wiring
- Water damage
Attic Insulation
A properly insulated attic goes a long way toward making your home comfortable and will save you money on your heating and cooling bills. Unfortunately, your attic’s insulation, particularly fiberglass insulation, can be severely impacted by squirrel activity. As squirrels scurry and scamper they trample and compress insulation, reducing its effectiveness. They will also move the insulation around, piling it up in some areas and clearing it entirely in others. In order for attic insulation to perform properly it needs to be installed in an even layer.
One of the worst things that squirrels do to attic insulation is leave behind their droppings and urine. With time, accumulations of droppings and urine can lead to distinct odor issues inside homes. Fiberglass insulation that has been soiled cannot be scrubbed clean like a hard surface. The only way to truly get rid of the odour and the harmful contaminants associated with rodent droppings is to remove and replace the attic insulation entirely.
Skedaddle technicians have the skill and specialty equipment needed to safely remove attic insulation without cross-contaminating your home. The process is labour intensive and involves sucking out, or removing by hand, the soiled insulation via the roof before blowing new insulation back in. Removing the insulation through the roof ensures that no contaminated material or equipment will need to be run through the home. The cost for attic restoration will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the attic, amount of contaminated insulation and how difficult the attic is to traverse.
Chewed Wood and Electrical Wiring
During our initial assessment our technicians will be sure to inspect your attic for signs of damage beyond insulation. One of the main things we’re on the lookout for is damage caused by chewing. Squirrels, like other rodents, have front teeth that are always growing and need to be kept sharp. One of the ways that squirrels keep their teeth short and sharp is by gnawing, and attics are full of surfaces for them to get their teeth into. Needless to say, chewed structural wood and electrical wiring could be a major safety hazard.
Water Damage
Each year damage from water represents one of the main sources of home insurance claims. Your roof is designed to protect your home from rain and snow but even a small hole chewed by squirrels can lead to significant water infiltration into the attic. Our technicians will be sure to inform you of any water damage or roof leaks to help you get ahead of any problems.
Clear & Clean Squirrel Damage
Your home is your biggest investment and the presence of squirrels can lead to significant damage and unsanitary conditions. Our technicians are trained to identify destruction caused by squirrels and will take time to walk you through our findings. Once we’ve assessed the situation we can advise clearing and cleaning strategies tailored to your needs. With over 30 years of experience we have what it takes to make sure you can enjoy your home in peace and comfort after the squirrels are gone.
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