Squirrels might appear innocent as they frolic across the yard, but these small critters can cause severe damage to the roofing and the rest of your property. October is Squirrel Awareness Month, and homeowners can take action to prevent these pests from causing hundreds in roofing repairs to their homes. If you have a lot of squirrels on your property, keep these tips in mind. 

3 Roofing Issues That Occur From Squirrels

1. Missing Shingles

Squirrels often scurry across tree limbs and onto roofs, where they chew and loosen shingles. Inspect the roofline for bare spots and missing shingles. If you find them in the yard, look for chew marks or unusual holes. To prevent this from happening, keep the trees trimmed away from the house. This will deter squirrels from exploring the roof.

2. Damaged Decking 

Squirrels can also chew and scratch through the decking and underlayment of the roof. Leaks often result, but you can also see this damage up close upon inspecting the area. Remove bird feeders from the yard to discourage squirrels from causing this unnecessary roofing repair.

3. Missing Insulation

Squirrels often venture from the roof to the inside of the house through vents in the attic. Once there, it’s not uncommon for them to eat the insulation. They can also climb inside the walls, damaging wires and drywall. Routinely inspect the attic for missing insulation. If squirrels are creating these problems, hire a pest control expert to prevent significant damage.

If you have roofing damage from squirrels, contact the contractors at Seaford Roofing in Cabarrus County, NC. For almost 50 years, they’ve specialized in roofing repairs, installations, and replacements for residents throughout Kannapolis and Concord. Their licensed roofers will identify and repair a variety of problems. To schedule a free inspection, call (704) 938-4542.