Roofing problems can threaten the integrity of your home. In some cases, those issues are the direct result of critters that damage the material. In Georgia, two of the most common culprits are squirrels and birds. Given how common and numerous these animals are, it may seem like a challenge to keep destruction to a minimum—but roof repair contractors can always provide a solution to ensure your home’s safety. Here are three ways that birds and squirrels can damage your roof.

How Birds & Squirrels Damage Roofing

1. Droppings

Bird droppings, in particular, are highly acidic, and can weaken roofing materials when found in high concentrations. If you notice birds nesting in or around your chimney or elsewhere on your roof, call in an animal control professional to remove them before their droppings can cause any problems with the shingles. 

2. Chewing

Squirrels can gnaw through both asphalt shingles and the beams that offer support to the overall structure. Before long, they’ll have access to the underlayment and will feel free to make their home inside your attic. If your roofing is already weak or compromised, it won’t take much effort for a squirrel to tear into the material and destroy the decking underneath.

3. Nesting

When birds and squirrels visit your home, they have one common goal: to find a warm spot. Your attic is a great solution, but if they can’t access that through your roof they make simply move on to another warm, dark area—the gutters. Once they create nests inside the gutter system, rainwater can’t properly flow away from your home after hitting the roof. This can quickly weaken your roofing and lead to extensive water damage.

Homeowners throughout Liberty County, GA, trust in the professionals at D. B. Gulliver & Son Roofing for all of their roof repair and maintenance needs. If you’re concerned that squirrels or birds have damaged the integrity of your roofing, don’t hesitate to get in touch—the sooner the team can get started, the easier it will be to fix the problem. The team’s goal is to ensure your home’s safety and your satisfaction, and they’re available to answer any of your residential roofing questions whenever you need help. Visit them on Facebook to view some of their projects, or give them a call at (912) 876-4401 to schedule a free estimate.