Sometimes, wildlife will try to make a cozy nest on your roof or in your gutters. But as much as you might enjoy waking up to the sound of birds singing in the morning, their presence can cause a lot of harm, which will require a roofer to repair. Below is a brief guide explaining the damage they do and how to prevent it.

How to Detect Animals in Your Roofing System

What Animals Are Found on Roofs & in Gutters?

Roofers will usually find birds, squirrels, and chipmunks setting up residence. These critters are small enough to create nests inside gutters and under eaves to shield their young from hazards and weather. Other animals that you may encounter include feral cats, raccoons, possums, mice, rats, and even lizards, who will feed on insects hiding in the debris of the gutters. Snakes may even make their way in to feed on some of those smaller rodents hiding inside.

There are a few telltale signs that you have a wildlife problem. Look for holes or broken asphalt shingles from where critters have been burrowing and going in and out of their new nest. These holes can also lead to leaks, which will appear as water damage in the attic, crawlspace, or ceilings and wall. There may also be damage on soffits and flashing under the roof’s edge and around features like chimneys.

Unfortunately, once animals penetrate the roof, they may set up home in your attic. You may hear scratching and scurrying, find droppings, or smell urine.

How to Stop Animals From Invading

The best way to avoid calls to a roofer for costly repairs is to take a few preventive measures on your property. First, keep trees around your home trim and neat. This stops climbers like squirrels from using branches to gain access to your house.

Make sure your roofing is cleared of debris like piles of leaves and twigs. Check that the gutters are cleaned out annually and after major storms, and consider installing gutter guards and chimney caps that will be more difficult for wildlife to penetrate. On the ground, keep all trash cans closed, and be diligent about removing debris and garbage that may attract animals like raccoons.

When you need a reliable roofer in the Lakewood, CO, area, call Chavez Roofing & Construction. For more than 15 years, this locally owned and operated roofing contractor has provided quality work, affordable pricing, and friendly service to anyone in need of roof installation or maintenance. Visit them online for all of their offerings. Call (720) 579-5188 for a free estimate.