The scurrying of tiny feet overhead might seem harmless at first, but it’s often a sign that squirrels have turned your attic into their new home. These clever creatures are drawn to the warmth and quiet spaces our attics offer, and once inside, they can cause serious damage to insulation, wiring, and even the structure of your home.
As temperatures drop, squirrels become even more determined to seek shelter, making homes like yours a prime target. But don’t worry—there are effective and humane ways to evict these uninvited guests and prevent them from returning. At Alta Pest Control, we know what it takes to protect your home. Let’s go over the most effective strategies to keep your attic squirrel-free.
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Why Squirrels in Your Attic Are a Problem
Squirrels might look cute outdoors, but inside your attic, they can quickly become destructive. These rodents chew on insulation, wood, and electrical wiring—creating fire hazards and weakening your home’s structure.
Beyond structural damage, squirrels also leave droppings and urine behind, introducing harmful bacteria that can affect air quality and your health. Their gnawing behavior can create multiple entry points, leading to repeated infestations and expensive repairs.
Taking action early helps minimize these risks and keeps your home protected.
How to Spot a Squirrel Infestation
If you’re dealing with squirrels, these signs can help confirm their presence:
- Strange Noises: Scratching, scurrying, or thumping sounds in the morning or evening are common.
- Visible Damage: Look for chew marks on wood, wires, or stored items.
- Droppings and Odors: Squirrel droppings are small and round, often accompanied by a strong smell of urine.
- Nests: Squirrels use insulation, grass, and leaves to build nests in corners or within insulation.
- Footprints: Dusty attic surfaces might reveal squirrel tracks.
- Exterior Damage: Chewed vents, shingles, or gaps in your roofline can be entry points.
How Squirrels Get Into Attics
Squirrels are excellent climbers and can exploit even the smallest vulnerabilities. Here are some common entry points:
- Roof Vents and Soffits: Squirrels chew through lighter materials to gain access.
- Eave Gaps: Small gaps between the roof and fascia board are easy targets.
- Chimneys: Open or damaged chimneys provide a direct route into your attic.
- Damaged Roofing: Cracked shingles or missing tiles can serve as entryways.
Regularly inspecting these areas and sealing any weaknesses is essential for prevention.
How to Remove Squirrels from Your Attic
When it comes to removing squirrels, we recommend using humane and effective methods.
Disrupt Their Comfort with Light and Noise
Bright lights and loud sounds make your attic less inviting. Use spotlights or strobe lights and play a radio or TV near nesting areas to encourage squirrels to leave.
Install One-Way Doors
These devices let squirrels exit but prevent them from re-entering. It’s a humane way to evict them and ensure they don’t come back.
Use Live-Capture Traps
Place traps near entry points or nests and bait them with nuts or peanut butter. Once captured, release squirrels several miles away to avoid their return.
Remove Nests Safely
Wear gloves and masks to clean out nests and dispose of them in sealed bags. Removing nesting materials prevents squirrels from reclaiming the space.
Try Natural Repellents
Use strong scents like ammonia, peppermint oil, or hot sauce mixtures around entry points and nesting areas to deter squirrels.
Preventing Squirrels from Coming Back
Prevention is key to keeping squirrels out of your attic for good.
Seal Entry Points
Inspect your roof, vents, soffits, and chimneys for gaps or damage. Use durable materials like metal flashing to seal any potential entry points.
Trim Tree Branches
Cut back branches within 10 feet of your roof to reduce access points.
Remove Attractants
Secure garbage cans with tight lids and use squirrel-proof bird feeders to eliminate food sources.
Inspect Regularly
Check your attic for signs of activity, such as droppings or chewed materials, to catch problems early.
When to Call Alta Pest Control
Sometimes, professional help is the safest and most effective solution. Contact us if squirrels have damaged electrical wiring or structures, the infestation is widespread or difficult to control, you’re dealing with aggressive squirrels or young squirrels during breeding seasons, or DIY methods haven’t worked.
Our team can safely remove squirrels, repair damage, and seal entry points to ensure they don’t come back.
Protect Your Home from Squirrels
At Alta Pest Control, we’re here to help you reclaim your attic and protect your home. Whether it’s removing squirrels or sealing up vulnerabilities, we’ve got the tools and expertise to handle the job. Don’t let squirrels take over your space—contact us today for professional wildlife removal and prevention services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of a squirrel infestation?
Scratching noises, droppings, visible chew marks, damaged insulation, and increased squirrel activity near your roof are common signs.
How do squirrels get into attics?
Squirrels exploit gaps in roofs, vents, chimneys, and fascia boards. They’re skilled climbers, making poorly sealed areas vulnerable.
What’s the best way to remove squirrels?
Use humane methods like one-way doors, live traps, or deterrents like light and noise.
How can I prevent squirrels from returning?
Seal entry points, trim tree branches, secure food sources, and inspect your attic regularly.
When should I call a professional?
Call us if the infestation is severe, there’s structural damage, or DIY efforts haven’t worked.
We’ll work with you to keep your home squirrel-free and protected year-round!
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