Get Rid Of Squirrels In Your Attic & Keep Them Out!

Hey there, homeowners! Are you hearing those tell-tale scratching noises coming from your attic? If so, you've likely got an unwelcome guest: a squirrel! While these bushy-tailed critters might seem cute in the park, they can wreak havoc when they decide to take up residence in your home. In this article, we're going to dive deep into how to get rid of squirrels in your attic and, more importantly, how to prevent them from coming back. Let's get started!

Identifying the Problem: Are Squirrels the Culprits?

Before you start any removal or prevention tactics, you've gotta be sure it's actually squirrels causing the ruckus. Here's how to identify them:

• The Noise: This is often the first clue. Squirrels are most active during the day, so you'll hear them scratching, scurrying, and sometimes even chattering in the attic, especially early in the morning and late in the afternoon. The sound is distinct from other pests like rodents, which tend to be more active at night.
• Entry Points: Look for possible entry points around your home. Squirrels are surprisingly agile and can squeeze through small openings. Common entry points include holes in the roof, gaps around vents, damaged soffits or fascia, and even poorly sealed windows and doors.
• Droppings: Squirrel droppings are typically small, dark, and elongated, often found near their entry points or in areas they frequent within the attic. If you find droppings, make sure you don't touch them with bare hands to prevent disease transmission. Be careful, guys!
• Visual Confirmation: If you're lucky, you might actually spot a squirrel entering or exiting your home. Keep an eye out during the times of day when they're most active.
• Damage: Squirrels can cause significant damage. They'll chew on wood, electrical wires, insulation, and anything else they can get their teeth on. Look for chewed wood, torn insulation, and damaged wires, all are tell-tale signs. It's a good idea to consult a professional if you're unsure about the extent of the damage.

Once you've confirmed that you have a squirrel problem, you can move on to the next steps of removal and prevention. Keep in mind the main goal here is to ensure the safety of your family and pets. Let's do this!

Safe and Humane Squirrel Removal Methods

Okay, so you've got squirrels in your attic. Now what? The goal is to get them out of your home safely and humanely. Here are some effective methods:

• One-Way Doors: This is a highly effective and humane method. You install a one-way door over the squirrel's entry point. This allows the squirrel to exit but prevents it from re-entering. These doors can be purchased at most hardware stores, or you can hire a professional to install them.
• Live Traps: Live traps are another humane option. You'll need to bait the trap with something squirrels find appealing, such as peanut butter, nuts, or fruit. Place the trap near the entry point or in an area where you've seen squirrel activity. Check the trap frequently (at least once a day) and release any captured squirrels far away from your home. Check your local regulations regarding relocation, because it may vary.
• Repellents: While repellents are not always the most effective solution on their own, they can be a useful supplement to other methods. You can use commercial squirrel repellents or create your own using ingredients like cayenne pepper, peppermint oil, or vinegar. Sprinkle the repellent in areas where squirrels are active or near entry points.
• Professional Wildlife Removal: If you're not comfortable with these methods, or if the problem is severe, consider hiring a professional wildlife removal service. They have the experience, tools, and knowledge to safely and humanely remove squirrels from your attic. This is definitely the safest approach, and you'll know the job is done right. It's a worthwhile investment!

Important Note: Never attempt to trap or handle squirrels with your bare hands. They can bite and scratch, and they may carry diseases.

Preventing Squirrel Re-Entry: Sealing and Maintenance

Removing squirrels from your attic is only half the battle. The most important thing is to prevent them from coming back. This involves sealing up any entry points and taking steps to make your home less attractive to squirrels. Here's what you need to do:

• Inspect Your Home: Conduct a thorough inspection of your home's exterior. Look for any holes, cracks, or gaps that squirrels could use to get inside. Pay special attention to the roof, soffits, fascia, vents, and areas around pipes and wires.
• Seal Entry Points: Once you've identified potential entry points, seal them up. Use durable materials like metal flashing, hardware cloth, or caulk to close off any openings. Make sure the materials are strong enough to withstand squirrel chewing.
• Trim Trees and Overhanging Branches: Squirrels often use trees and branches to access roofs and other areas of your home. Trim any branches that are close to your house to reduce their access points.
• Secure Your Trash: Squirrels are attracted to food sources. Make sure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids and are stored in a secure location. Clean up any spilled food promptly.
• Remove Bird Feeders: Bird feeders can also attract squirrels. If you have bird feeders, consider using squirrel-resistant feeders or placing them in an area that's difficult for squirrels to access.
• Maintain Your Roof: Regularly inspect your roof for any damage, such as missing shingles or cracked tiles. Repair any damage promptly to prevent squirrels from gaining access.
• Ventilation: Make sure that your attic is well-ventilated. Poor ventilation can make your attic more attractive to squirrels, as it creates a humid environment that is ideal for nest-building. Ensure that your vents are not blocked and that they are properly screened to prevent squirrel entry.

Preventing squirrel re-entry is a continuous process. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to keep your home squirrel-free.

Dealing with Attic Damage and Cleanup

Squirrels can cause a lot of damage in your attic. Chewed wires, damaged insulation, and droppings can create safety hazards and health risks. Here's how to deal with the aftermath:

• Safety First: Before you enter your attic, wear protective gear, including gloves, a mask, and eye protection. Squirrels can carry diseases, and their droppings can harbor bacteria. Also, be cautious of any damaged wires, and make sure the power to the attic is off before you start any cleanup.
• Remove Droppings and Debris: Use a HEPA vacuum or a brush to remove any squirrel droppings and debris. Dispose of the waste in a sealed plastic bag. Wash all the surfaces with a disinfectant cleaner.
• Inspect and Repair Damage: Carefully inspect your attic for any damage. Replace any damaged insulation, and repair or replace any chewed wires. Contact an electrician if you're not comfortable working with electrical wiring.
• Odor Control: Squirrels can leave behind an unpleasant odor. To get rid of the smell, you can use an odor neutralizer or a commercial air freshener. Ensure your attic is well-ventilated to help remove the smell.
• Consider Professional Help: If the damage is extensive or you're not comfortable with the cleanup process, consider hiring a professional attic restoration service. They have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively restore your attic.

Dealing with attic damage can be a messy and challenging process. Safety and thoroughness are key when tackling this part of the job. This may require multiple trips.

FAQs: Your Squirrel Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about getting rid of squirrels:

• How do I know if I have a squirrel in my attic? Listen for scratching, scurrying, and chattering sounds, especially during the day. Also, look for entry points, droppings, and any signs of damage like chewed wood or wires.
• What is the most effective way to get rid of squirrels? A combination of methods usually works best, including one-way doors, live traps, and deterrents. The best option for you will depend on the specific situation.
• Can I use poison to kill squirrels? It's generally not recommended or safe to use poison to kill squirrels. Poison can be dangerous to pets, children, and other wildlife. It's always better to use humane removal methods.
• How long does it take to get rid of squirrels? The time it takes to get rid of squirrels depends on the size of the infestation and the methods you use. It may take a few days or several weeks. Be patient, and consistent.
• How much does it cost to get rid of squirrels? The cost of squirrel removal can vary depending on the methods used and the extent of the infestation. DIY methods are typically cheaper, while hiring a professional will cost more. The price will depend on the company and the service provided.
• How can I prevent squirrels from coming back? Seal all entry points, trim trees and branches, secure your trash, remove bird feeders, and maintain your roof.

Wrapping Up: Taking Control of Your Home

Dealing with squirrels in your attic can be a frustrating experience, but it's something you can definitely handle with the right knowledge and approach. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can safely and humanely remove squirrels from your home and prevent them from returning. Remember, patience and persistence are key! Regular inspections and preventative measures are your best defense against these furry intruders. Good luck, and take back your home, guys! If you have any more questions, please let me know!