Squirrel Damage: How to Protect Your Home from Chewing & Nesting

Squirrels may seem harmless, but when they invade homes, they can cause extensive damage. Their constant chewing can destroy wiring, insulation, and wooden structures, leading to costly repairs and fire hazards. Understanding how to prevent squirrel infestations and remove them safely can help protect both property and wildlife.

Common Signs of Squirrel Damage

Squirrels are resourceful and can find their way into attics, crawl spaces, and walls. Look for these key signs of an infestation:

• Chewed Wires and Cables – Squirrels gnaw on electrical wiring, creating fire hazards.
• Scratching and Scurrying Noises – Sounds of movement in walls or ceilings, especially in the morning and evening.
• Droppings and Urine Odors – Accumulation of waste in attics and hidden areas.
• Damaged Insulation – Squirrels tear apart insulation for nesting, reducing energy efficiency.
• Entry Holes – Chewed openings around vents, soffits, and eaves.
• Nesting Materials – Twigs, leaves, and shredded materials inside attics or behind walls.

Why Squirrel Damage Is a Serious Concern

While squirrels may seem like minor pests, their presence can lead to significant problems, including:

• Electrical Fires – Chewing through wiring can cause short circuits and fire hazards.
• Structural Damage – Persistent gnawing weakens wood, siding, and vents.
• Health Risks – Squirrels carry parasites and diseases that pose risks to humans and pets.
• Increased Infestations – If left unchecked, squirrels attract other pests like rodents and insects.

How to Prevent Squirrels from Invading Your Home

Preventing a squirrel infestation is the best way to avoid costly damage. Implement these strategies to keep squirrels out:

Seal Entry Points

• Inspect the roof, attic vents, and eaves for openings and seal them with sturdy materials.
• Use steel mesh or metal flashing to block access to vulnerable areas.
• Repair damaged soffits, fascia boards, and siding promptly.

Trim Trees and Vegetation

• Cut back tree branches at least six feet from the home to prevent squirrels from jumping onto the roof.
• Remove overgrown shrubs and climbing vines near the house.

Secure Food Sources

• Keep bird feeders away from the house and use squirrel-proof designs.
• Store pet food and trash in tightly sealed containers.
• Clean up fallen nuts, seeds, and other food sources around the yard.

Install Squirrel Deterrents

• Use motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic repellents to discourage squirrels.
• Apply taste deterrents like capsaicin-based sprays on common entry points.

Safe and Effective Squirrel Removal

If squirrels have already invaded, safe and humane removal is crucial. Avoid DIY methods that could harm the animals or worsen the situation. Professional wildlife control specialists follow a structured process to remove squirrels effectively:

• Inspection and Assessment – Identify nesting sites and entry points.
• Humane Trapping and Removal – Use safe, regulated trapping methods to relocate squirrels.
• Exclusion Techniques – Install one-way exclusion doors to allow squirrels to exit but not re-enter.
• Damage Repair and Cleanup – Restore insulation, wiring, and entry points.
• Preventative Measures – Implement long-term deterrents to prevent future infestations.

When to Call a Squirrel Removal Expert

If squirrels have taken up residence in the attic or walls, professional removal is the safest and most effective solution. Experts have the tools and knowledge to remove squirrels without causing harm and ensure they don’t return.

Protect Your Home from Squirrel Damage

Preventative steps and professional removal can safeguard a home from costly squirrel damage. Don’t let squirrels take over—contact Animal & Pest Control Specialist, Inc. at 303-309-4030 for expert squirrel removal services in the Denver Metro Area.