If rodents such as squirrels, raccoons, possums, or mice have taken up residence in your attic, then you will need to do two things very quickly. The first thing you will need to do is to call a wildlife expert, who will safely and humanely remove the animals.
If left to live in a hot attic, these small animals may not survive, without quick intervention. The second thing that you will need to do is call a residential roofing services company to request a roofing evaluation from a contractor, who will try to determine how the rodents gained access to your attic. Here are some ways residential roofing contractors can help keep animals out of your attic:
Soffit Inspection
Roofing contractors also inspect soffit boards underneath your roof. Small animals can access your attic through breaches in your soffit system. The animals can reach your soffits by climbing up your home, but more likely, by climbing a tree that is close to your house and then jumping onto your gutters.
The rodents may then make holes or nests in your soffits, eventually making an opening. Through this opening, the animals can gain access to your attic, and in some cases, to the living areas of your home. Your roofing contractor will inspect your soffit and fascia, and once the openings are found, the soffit can be repaired, or a new soffit can be installed.
If the access hole is very small, the contractor may secure a mesh or wire barrier over the hole instead of replacing the soffit so that access to your attic cannot be made. This is a great option if you do not want to replace the broken portion of your soffit right now, however, sooner or later, you may have to. The soffit can also be compromised if it rots or otherwise gets damaged as a result of ice or water damage.
Securing Roofing Flashing
Roofing flashing is made from either aluminum or steel, and is used to prevent rainwater or melted ice from ruining your shingles. It is typically installed around your chimney and other areas of the roof where the joints are present. If the flashing is missing or broken, small animals can squeeze through the hole, accessing your home.
Your roofing contractor will need to walk around your roof and inspect it carefully, and if areas of flashing are damaged, he or she will replace them. After all areas of broken flashing have been repaired, your attic will once again be rodent proof.
If you are living with rodents in your attic, make an appointment with a residential roofing contractor for an inspection and estimate. The sooner roof repairs are made, the sooner you and your family can enjoy a rodent-free attic.
