It’s hard to keep squirrels out of your attic once the weather gets cold. This change reminds them winter is on its way, and they’ll be desperate to find somewhere warm. This goes double for squirrel mamas with babies. When you put it that way, it can seem cruel to keep them out at all, but it pays to remember how destructive wild animals can be. Not only can they soak your ceilings in urine, destroy your insulation and start fires by eating through live wires, they can pass on diseases they bring into your home.

Comparatively, it’s much easier—and safer—to keep squirrels out than remove them once they’ve set up shop, so follow these simple squirrel-proof tips:

Get your trees trimmed this fall to keep squirrels out of your attic.

Autumn is the best time of year to trim your trees for the purpose of removing damage and stimulating new growth. As an additional benefit, it helps keep branches away from your house, making it more difficult for squirrels to hop onto your roof. For squirrel-proofing purposes, aim to trim branches six to eight feet from your house.

If trimming isn’t an option, homeowners can wrap tree trunks in bands of sheet metal six to eight feet off the ground. These prevent squirrels from climbing the trees to begin with, but it won’t stop them from jumping over from adjacent structures.

Repair any holes or gaps in your home’s exterior to keep squirrels out of your attic.

Squirrels typically use an existing hole to gain entry to your home. Attic vents are one of the most popular. These can be successfully covered with wire-based mesh hardware cloth. Missing shingles, gaps in between your siding and fascia, and entry points for wiring can pose an invitation to these wily critters.

Make sure you give your home a once over before cold weather sets in. Patch any entry points, no matter how small, as squirrels are adept at clawing and gnawing their way in through even the smallest area. Pests can be frightfully determined about getting into a warm structure, so secure your attic as much as possible.

Cover necessary outlets with wire caps to keep squirrels out of your attic.

Most modern day homes do have a few openings to the elements. Whether it’s a chimney or an exhaust pipe, it’s important to cover them securely—without impeding their operations. The idea to keep squirrels out of your attic is important, but so is venting carbon monoxide.

Call a professional wildlife removal expert to keep squirrels out of your attic.

If accessing your attic to make these changes seems like too big of a struggle, just imagine the work removing a squirrel would be. Professional squirrel prevention is well worth the money for many homeowners. Just be sure to work with an established business, and when in doubt, ask for references.

Ask the experts to help you keep squirrels out of your attic today; call North Fulton Pest Solutions at 770-475-7419 to schedule your appointment.