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Screening a Gable Vent the Right Way to Keep Wildlife Out of Attics
At Frontline Animal Removal, we see all kinds of DIY attempts to keep wildlife out of attics—some more effective than others.
One of the more common spots for animal entry is the gable vent, and when homeowners take action to screen these vents, they’re definitely on the right track.
Recently, we came across a job in Stark County where someone made a commendable effort to keep birds out of their attic. They had gone up on a ladder, cut a piece of window screening to fit over their gable vent, and secured it with staples. The intent was solid, and we appreciate the proactive approach—after all, keeping birds and other wildlife out of attics before they become a bigger problem is always a smart move.
However, while this setup might keep birds at bay in the short term, it unfortunately won’t hold up in the long run.
Standard window screen mesh is not designed to withstand the elements, and staples aren’t strong enough to stand up to determined animals. Over time, weather weakens the mesh and staple, and animals like squirrels and raccoons—who love to use gable vents as entry points—can easily tear through the material or pull it loose.
That’s where professional-grade materials and methods make all the difference.
Long Term Animal Screening Solution
In a recent video, Ryan shows a side-by-side comparison of an old, worn-out screen job versus a new, properly secured one. It clearly illustrates the difference between a temporary fix and a lasting solution. We use galvanized hardware cloth, a heavy-duty mesh that resists rust and animal tampering. Unlike thin screen material, hardware cloth can stand up to gnawing, clawing, and Ohio’s unpredictable weather.
We don’t use staples, either. Instead, we secure the screen with screws and washers, anchoring the mesh solidly to the frame of the vent. This method ensures the screen stays in place year after year and keeps out not just birds, but squirrels, raccoons, and other attic intruders.
Here is the video:
Attic Screening | Akron, Canton, Kent Ohio
If you’re a homeowner in the Canton, Akron, or Kent area and you’re thinking about screening your gable vent, our advice is simple: choose the right materials and secure them the right way. Doing so will save you the headache of animal infestations, attic damage, and costly repairs down the line.
We’re always happy to help if you’re unsure about the best way to protect your home.
At Frontline Animal Removal, we specialize in wildlife exclusion and repair services throughout Stark, Summit, and Portage Counties.
Whether you’re dealing with animals in the attic or just trying to make sure they stay out, we’ve got the tools, experience, and knowledge to do the job right.
So if you’re ready to protect your gable vents for good—or if you’ve got animals already using your attic as their personal condo—give us a call. We’ll help you secure your home the right way.