Sloppy Construction: An Invitation for Squirrels to Move In
At Frontline Animal Removal, we encounter plenty of situations where animals like squirrels get into homes. Sometimes the animal works pretty hard to get inside. Often, though, they are practically invited in. This week’s post will provide an example of this.
This week, we’re highlighting a recent job where Ryan found squirrels entering a house through a construction flaw that was a huge invitation. Unlike many cases where squirrels gnaw or claw their way inside, this home’s structural gaps allowed access without the animals even needing to do any damage.
We’ll explain more. But watching this video will give you a great look at the situation and what he found.
As you saw, leaving gaps like this home has is sure to draw the attention of nuisance wildlife eventually. Sparrows, starlings or raccoons would use a gap like this too.
Squirrels: Opportunistic Intruders
Squirrels are highly resourceful. They don’t need human help to find a way into our homes, but when we unknowingly give them an advantage, they’ll gladly take it. Poor construction practices often result in gaps or openings in places where building materials should meet seamlessly. Some common trouble spots include:
- Roofline transitions where shingles or flashing don’t fully cover gaps.
- Soffits that aren’t properly secured or have shifted over time.
- Vent openings that are left unprotected by screens or guards.
When these areas are left exposed, they provide squirrels with exactly what they’re looking for—an easy entry point.
Lessons from Past Jobs
This concept of poor construction leading to squirrels is not new. Looking back over a decade, we’ve previously discussed this issue in detail in other blog posts.
Now might be a great time to review these posts as they underscore today’s theme.
One post, titled “Design and Construction Lead to Squirrel Problems”, explains how certain design features, though aesthetically pleasing, can unintentionally invite wildlife. For instance, decorative trim and complex rooflines often create vulnerable spots for squirrels to exploit.
Another blog post, “Recipe for Squirrels: Water + Shoddy Work”, highlights how poor workmanship combined with weather exposure leads to weakened structures. Over time, water damage exacerbates gaps, making it even easier for animals to get inside. In both cases, the solution is the same: addressing these weak points and implementing professional repairs that last.
Removing the Problem and Preventing It from Happening Again
At Frontline Animal Removal, we take a two-step approach to solving squirrel intrusion problems:
- Remove the Squirrels: First, we safely trap and remove the squirrels from your property. Humane and effective, this ensures that no further damage is done to your home while we work on repairs.
- Fix the Problem: After removing the squirrels, we address the structural issues that allowed them inside in the first place. This might involve sealing gaps, reinforcing soffits, or installing protective barriers. Our goal is to make sure your home is secure against future wildlife intrusions.
With proper repairs and maintenance, we can eliminate these easy opportunities and protect your home from nuisance wildlife.
Protecting Your Home Starts Here
In the Canton, Akron, and Kent areas, homeowners frequently deal with nuisance wildlife, and one of the major contributing factors is poor building practices.
Whether it’s a gap in the roofline, poorly aligned soffits, or unsecured siding, these imperfections in construction create easy entry points for animals that are naturally curious and skilled at finding shelter.
If you’re dealing with squirrels or other nuisance wildlife in Stark, Summit, or Portage Counties, Frontline Animal Removal is here to help.
We specialize in both removing animals and making the necessary repairs to prevent them from coming back. Don’t let construction flaws create a long-term headache. Call us today for effective solutions tailored to your home.
By addressing the root cause and not just the symptoms, we ensure peace of mind for homeowners throughout the Canton, Akron, and Kent areas. Squirrels may be crafty, but with a little help from Frontline, you’ll stay one step ahead.
