Is Your Attic Ready for Critter Season?
As summer begins winding down, many homeowners start thinking about cooler weather, fall cleanup and getting the house ready for winter.
Unfortunately, local wildlife is making plans too.
By late summer and early fall, squirrels, raccoons, mice and other critters may already be looking for warm, protected places to shelter before cold weather arrives. If your attic has loose soffits, damaged vents, gaps near the roofline or unprotected openings, your home could become an easy target.
For homeowners in the Chicago suburbs, now is a smart time to inspect the attic and exterior of the home before unwanted visitors move in.
Why Animals Want Into Your Attic
Your attic can be very appealing to wildlife. It is warm, dry, sheltered and usually quiet. Once animals find a way inside, they may use insulation, paper, cardboard or other materials to build nests.
Some animals may also create latrine areas inside the attic, leaving behind urine and droppings. This can create odor, contamination and potential health concerns.
The longer animals remain in the attic, the more damage they can cause.
Critters Can Cause Serious Damage
Small openings can lead to big problems.
Raccoons and squirrels have strong teeth and claws and may chew, tear or pull at building materials to create or enlarge an entry point. Mice and rats can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps and may chew on insulation, wood and other materials.
An attic infestation can lead to:
- damaged or contaminated insulation
- chewed wiring or building materials
- torn ductwork
- damaged vents or soffits
- unpleasant odors
- droppings and urine in the attic
- insect problems from fleas, mites or other pests
- increased risk of future animal entry
Even after the animals are removed, the attic may still need cleanup, insulation replacement or ventilation repairs.
Wildlife Can Bring Health Concerns
Wild animals do not belong inside your home.
Droppings, urine, nesting materials and parasites can create unhealthy attic conditions. Some animals may also carry fleas, ticks, mites or diseases that can affect people and pets.
Because of these risks, homeowners should avoid handling animal waste or nesting materials without proper protection. If you suspect animal activity in your attic, it is best to have the space inspected.
Common Signs of Animals in the Attic
You may have unwanted attic visitors if you notice:
- scratching, scurrying or thumping sounds overhead
- noises early in the morning or at night
- droppings in the attic
- torn or disturbed insulation
- damaged soffit vents
- chewed openings near the roofline
- unusual odors
- stains on ceilings or attic materials
- visible nesting materials
- insects or fleas appearing indoors
If you hear activity above the ceiling, do not ignore it. Animals can cause damage quickly once they gain access.
How to Help Keep Critters Out of Your Attic
Attic protection starts with removing easy access points.
Here are several ways homeowners can help reduce the risk of attic infestations:
- Make sure attic vents and attic fan openings are properly screened.
- Repair loose or damaged soffit panels and soffit vents.
- Inspect the roofline for gaps, holes or damaged materials.
- Trim trees and branches away from the house.
- Keep bushes and landscaping from touching the structure.
- Move trash cans away from the home when possible.
- Do not leave pet food outdoors.
- Keep bird feeders away from the house.
- Install gutter protection where appropriate.
- Inspect the attic seasonally for signs of animal activity.
Prevention is much easier than dealing with animals after they have moved in.
Why Attic Ventilation and Screening Matter
Your attic still needs to breathe, even when you are trying to keep animals out.
That means vents should not simply be blocked. Instead, attic openings should be protected with proper screening or materials that allow airflow while helping prevent birds, rodents and other pests from entering.
Improperly blocked vents can create new problems, including heat buildup, moisture concerns and poor attic ventilation.
A professional attic inspection can help determine whether your vents, fan openings, soffits and insulation are properly protected.
Attic Air Helps Protect Homes in the Chicago Suburbs
Attic Air provides attic insulation and ventilation services for homeowners throughout the Chicago suburbs.
If you are not sure whether animals are getting into your attic, or if you want to make sure your attic vents and openings are protected before winter, our team can help inspect the space and identify potential problem areas.
Do not wait until you hear scratching overhead.
Contact Attic Air today to schedule a free attic assessment and help keep your attic protected before critter season begins.
Call Attic Air at 630-830-3870.