All thanks to your roof, your interior home has protection from any harmful elements, keeping it dry and free from any damage. It might be simple at a first glance, but the roof of your home plays a crucial role in protecting your interior. However, if animal roof damage occurs, this role can be compromised.
If you own a home, you’re certainly aware of the kind of animals that may live in or around your yard. While some wildlife may be beneficial to your lawn and garden, others have a habit of entering every nook and cranny of your home. It is essential to be aware of potential animals in the area and to take precautions to interact with these animals.
Instead of waiting for disaster to happen, here is the list of the animals that may cause roof damage.
Common Animals That Can Cause Damage To Your Roof
Raccoons
Raccoons have very sharp claws and teeth which make them effortlessly climb up trees, roofs, and other structures. They can damage the shingles of your roof which may enable future water damage.
They usually get into people’s homes through pet doors or open windows. When they get inside they can cause considerable damage by tearing up insulation and chewing on wires.
Aside from potential animal damage to the roof, raccoons also love to eat cat food which makes them a threat to pets. If left unchecked, raccoons could potentially destroy the entire interior of your home before moving on to another one in search of food.
Squirrels
Squirrels are known to chew on wood surfaces, including the wood shingles on your roof. Since they live in trees, they tend to stay away from human contact as much as possible. However, if they feel threatened or want something badly enough, they will come down from the trees and try to make their way into your home through whatever opening they can find — like an attic entrance or even through an open window!
Birds
Unlike raccoons who have very sharp claws and teeth, birds such as pigeons, seagulls, crows, and hawks can do animal roof damage by leaving droppings on your roof. These droppings will eventually break down into a white powdery substance that can cause problems for several reasons.
These droppings can weigh down your shingles over time causing them to crack or break off. Also, it attracts insects like ants and termites who feed off of it. Furthermore, it attracts mould spores which can affect health. Lastly, it can stain the surface of your shingles making them look old before their time.
Termites
We all know that termites are insects that eat wood. They leave behind faecal pellets called frass that can look like sawdust or sand. If you want to determine if your house is having termite infestation, you should try to look if there’s the presence of large amounts of frass.
Rats
Rats are another common problem when it comes animal roof damage. They are known for finding a new home by digging into roofing and insulation. Also, they are notorious for chewing through electrical wires, which can lead to fires or electrocution if not addressed immediately.
Bats
Another common type of animal that may be living in your roof space is a bat. While they are beneficial when it comes to eliminating bugs such as mosquitoes, they can cause damage by chewing through insulation or making holes in shingles with their sharp teeth and claws. The next thing you’ll know is that there’s water seeping in.
How To Prevent Animal Roof Damage
When it comes to pressure washing your home, many people usually think about the common place in your house such as the driveway or patio. However, it is also important that you pressure wash your roof on a regular basis to remove excess dirt and grime that may accumulate over time.
Have you ever got curious about how to keep animals off your roof? If you have, then you’re not alone. One of the best ways to avoid animal roof damage is by pressure washing your home at least once a year. This will allow you to assess and see if there’s any damage early.
You’re going to need to take a good look at your roof. Most problems will stand out right away. You’re looking for missing shingles, broken flashing, clogged gutters, and so on. Make a note of any issues you find, so you can come back and address them later.
House Washing Experts Are Just One Call Away
No time for pressure washing? House Washing Experts can take care of it for you. We are a premier exterior house washing company that specialises in fence cleaning. As a service provider, we know you deserve a clean, appealing home. Our skilled team of pros will ensure that your fence will achieve its pristine condition.
Got some questions or concerns? Let’s keep in touch at 1300 927 433 today.