Lack of Drip Edge Invites Raccoons
At Frontline Animal Removal, we often see how problems with roof construction and maintenance create opportunities for nuisance wildlife to invade homes.
One of the most common culprits? Water damage.
Improper roof installation or a lack of maintenance can lead to water damage, which in turn compromises the structural integrity of your home and provides entry points for animals like raccoons, squirrels, and other critters.
A perfect example of this is highlighted in a recent job we tackled in the Canton, Akron, and Kent, Ohio area.
At this particular house, the lack of a drip edge—an essential roofing element—led to water, snow, and ice seeping behind the fascia board. Over time, this exposure caused the fascia and roof decking to separate.
Take a look:
Raccoons, always on the lookout for vulnerabilities, found the gap created by the damaged fascia and used it as an entry point into the soffit and then into the attic of the home.
This situation underscores a critical point: WATER is your home’s enemy. Wildlife intrusion is often a symptom of a bigger issue—water damage caused by poor construction or neglect.
What Is a Drip Edge, and Why Is It Important?
A drip edge is a metal flashing installed along the edges of your roof. Its purpose is to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters, preventing moisture from seeping behind the roofing materials. Without a drip edge, water can flow where it shouldn’t, leading to rot, mold, and structural damage.
During the freeze-thaw cycles common in Ohio winters, the problem worsens as ice and snow exacerbate the damage.
In the example house, the absence of a drip edge allowed water to penetrate the fascia board over several seasons. Once the fascia board deteriorated, it created a gap—just big enough for raccoons and squirrels to squeeze through. This demonstrates how a relatively small roofing issue can snowball into a significant wildlife problem.
For more, try this page all about drip edge and why it is important.
The Connection Between Water Damage and Wildlife Intrusion
Animals like raccoons and squirrels are incredibly resourceful when it comes to finding shelter. They exploit any opportunity to get into your home, especially during colder months. Water-damaged areas, such as rotted fascia boards, soffits, or shingles, provide easy access points.
When animals gain entry, the problems compound. These critters can cause:
- Chewed electrical wires
- Contaminated insulation
- Foul odors from droppings
- Further structural damage
All of these issues can be costly and time-consuming to fix. Preventing water damage in the first place is one of the best ways to keep wildlife out.
How to Protect Your Home from Water Damage and Wildlife
Proper roof construction and regular maintenance are key to safeguarding your home from both water damage and nuisance wildlife. Here are some tips:
- Install a Drip Edge: Ensure your roof has a properly installed drip edge to keep water flowing away from your home’s structural elements.
- Inspect Your Roof Regularly: Look for damaged shingles, clogged gutters, or any signs of water infiltration. Address issues promptly to prevent further damage.
- Seal Gaps and Cracks: Check for any small openings around your roofline, vents, or fascia. Wildlife only needs a small gap to get inside.
- Replace Damaged Materials: If you notice rotted fascia boards or soffits, replace them immediately and address the underlying cause of the water damage.
- Work with Professionals: Schedule regular inspections with roofing and wildlife removal experts. We can help identify vulnerabilities and recommend solutions before they become major problems.
A Comprehensive Approach to Wildlife Prevention
At Frontline Animal Removal, we don’t just remove nuisance wildlife—we address the root causes of the intrusion. By identifying and repairing water-damaged areas, we help ensure your home remains critter-free.
In the case of damaged fascia caused by the lack of a drip edge, we are able to remove the wildlife, repair the water-damaged materials, and reinforced the area to prevent future intrusions.
This comprehensive approach not only solves the immediate problem but also protects the home for years to come.
Water damage may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can lead to significant issues, including wildlife intrusion.
Properly installed and maintained roofing elements, like drip edges, play a crucial role in keeping water out and wildlife at bay. If you suspect water damage or have already noticed signs of wildlife intrusion, don’t wait.
Contact Frontline Animal Removal today. We’re here to help residents in Stark, Summit, and Portage Counties protect their homes from both water damage and nuisance wildlife.
