Common Raccoon Entry Spots

Today’s blog post on raccoon removal highlights a classic area where raccoons gain entry to attics: the junction of two roof lines.

Take a look at these recent pictures from raccoon jobs:

Here is the first example of the common raccoon entry.

Where the roof of the small dormer and the roof of the main house meet, there is a protected and easy attic access if a raccoon pushes past or removes some soffit.

A close-up shows signs of raccoon entry:

Bits of blown-in insulation the raccoon brings with it on its way out
Pushed-up, damaged soffit
Smudged, stained soffit that is darkened from the raccoon’s back rubbing it on the way in and out.

(There is sure to be a distinctive raccoon smell right at this entry way too, but we can’t get scratch and sniff on the computer yet)

The shallow pitch of roof in the pictures above makes it easy for raccoons, but steep pitches can be accessed, too.

Here, missing soffit where these roof lines meet is an indication that an animal may be accessing an attic. Sometimes soffit gets loose because of weather, but often it is the result of animals exploring options.

In this case, the missing soffit is repeated on the other side of the peak. This is an even better indication that animals (raccoons) are using it. When possible, raccoons will use more than one entry/exit into an attic space for ease. Click on the picture to make it bigger and see the muddy prints on the fascia where the raccoon climbs up and down from the main roof.

Hearing Pretty Loud Noises in the Attic?

If so and you suspect raccoons, check out your roof lines.

There are other areas where raccoons can enter attics, but, these tucked in little areas (shown above) where two roof lines meet is one of the primary spots you should check.