Once squirrels get into buildings they chew through wires. In rare cases, chewed wires can start a massive fire. Imagine losing everything you’ve spent your whole life working towards thanks to a small squirrel.
Don’t just call a professional when you hear noises in the attic. It’s best to stop them from getting inside in the first place. Here are some of the best ways to stop squirrels from finding a way inside your office building.
1. Cement Behind Your Gutters
Unless your gutters are emptied regularly, they’ll start to fill up with water. If it can’t escape it’s going to back up towards your roof. Cement sitting under your bottom tiles will break off due to moisture damage.
When enough cement falls out it will leave a big hole, which squirrels will fit through easily. You might even end up with birds in the attic. Check the cement is in place whenever you clean out your gutters.
2. Replace Your Old Windows
Big City Windows, a top windows company in Ottawa says you might need to replace old roof windows. When was the last time you went into the attic of your office building? It’s worth checking your roof windows ASAP.
If it’s an old building they could be falling apart. It’s not uncommon to find them cracked or smashed. Walk around checking if all the windows are okay. Large buildings tend to have some you forget about over the years.
3. Change Your Exhaust Vents
You’ll have a few exhaust vents scattered around your building. The lightweight covers are no match for a bored squirrel desperate to get inside. It doesn’t take much to chew through the plastic when it’s old and worn.
When squirrels manage to get inside exhaust vents they love to build nests. It’s a fire waiting to happen. Shine a flashlight inside to get a better look. If you see any fire hazards they should be removed straight away.
4. Look For Broken Shingles
Hire a professional to check your roof for broken shingles once a year. It’s easier to spot a problem at home. You can probably see your entire roof from the ground, and leaks will be noticeable in rooms you use regularly.
It’s harder to see an office building roof from the ground, plus there are ceilings you’ll never check. Squirrels only have to chew through your roof decking to get inside once they don’t have shingles standing in their way.
5. Inspect The Gable Vents
Gable vents let air circulate through your attic more easily. Squirrels are unbelievable when it comes to acrobatics, so they’ll be able to reach them effortlessly. Don’t think you’re safe if the gable vents are made from metal.
Squirrels seem to love chewing on aluminum because it’s so soft. Wooden and plastic slats offer little protection too, but steel is going to keep them out. If you find any damaged slats you’ll need to replace them.
Keep Them Out If Possible
I know it’s unlikely a squirrel is going to cause your building to burn to the ground, but they can still leave you with lots of problems. Do everything you can to keep them outside.
