When an animal invades your home, it can cause damage, spread disease, and even create fire hazards. But how do critters get in your house? This article will explore a few common entry points for animals like raccoons and squirrels.
Cracks and Damage – Widening Entry Points
Cracks, holes, and other breaks in your home’s exterior can provide an animal with a perfect entryway into your home smaller animals, such as rats and mice can squeeze through dime-sized cracks and can gnaw or scratch at them. This can open them even wider. Damage to the siding, foundation, or eaves can let the critters walk right in.
Roofing
Old roofing can expose openings for animals. A few loose shingles and some scratching, and a raccoon has a new home in your attic. Even small openings can be widened by some clever critters. Storm damage to a roof, especially after heavy snow or a thunderstorm may create entry points for animals. A professional should inspect your roof if you suspect that it might be damaged.
Doors and Windows – Temporary Entry Points
Open doors and windows can sometimes act as entry points for animals. These critters will likely hide in common areas of the home or they could be spotted immediately. Windows without sturdy screens or doors left open for extended periods can lead to critters getting in. Cat and dog doors can also be a potential entry point for raccoons, mice, squirrels, and more.
Chimneys
Chimneys can be a lovely addition to the home, but they can also be a great place for animals to live. Many animals that live in the New York/New Jersey area can climb brick or stone and live in the chimney. Birds also commonly make nests on the edge of chimneys. Sometimes, animals can live in your chimney for an extended period of time without being noticed because you only use it seasonally. Keep the flue closed when the chimney is not in use; to prevent pest animals from entering the rest of your home. The summer months are a good time to get your chimney cleaned and inspected, as you probably aren’t using it. Chimney caps or screens can help reduce the risk of animal invaders.
Overhanging Trees
Tree branches that are close to your home, or those that hang over it, can become a walkway for many animals. Hanging branches can also be a source of damage in extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes. Snakes may not be able to climb some sidings, but they can drop from a tree branch to access your roof. Hire a tree-trimming company to trim problem branches.