Sealing Off Your Attic To Keep Out Common Wildlife

As a homeowner in Columbia, SC, you may enjoy the beauty of our region's natural surroundings, but with that comes the risk of unwanted wildlife intruding into your home. Animals like raccoons, squirrels, opossums, and bats can find their way into your attic, causing damage and potentially bringing health risks. In this blog, we’ll provide you with practical tips on how to seal off your attic and keep these critters at bay, while also highlighting some local considerations.

Understanding Wildlife

Columbia’s lush landscapes and abundant trees create an ideal habitat for various wildlife. Many of them may make their way into secluded areas like attics because they offer: 

• Shelter: They provide a quiet, dark, and protected environment for nesting and raising young away from predators.
• Access to Food: Many attics have easy access to food sources, such as pet food or birdseed stored in garages and pantries.
• Warmth: Attics retain heat, especially during colder months, making them cozy spots for animals seeking warmth.
• Lack of Human Activity: Attics are typically less frequented by humans, providing a safe haven for wildlife.

Raccoons and opossums are often attracted to easy food sources, such as pet food or garbage left outdoors, while squirrels frequently seek nesting sites in attics. Bats can also enter through small openings, as they are adept at squeezing through tight spaces. Understanding their behaviors is the first step in effectively keeping them out.

How To Seal Off Your Attic

1. Inspect for Entry Points

Begin by thoroughly inspecting the exterior of your home, particularly around the roofline, soffits, and vents. Look for:

• Gaps in the roofline or eaves: Check for loose or missing shingles that could create openings.
• Cracks in the foundation: Even small cracks can be entry points for wildlife. Pay special attention to the area where the foundation meets the exterior walls.
• Openings around vents, chimneys, and pipes: These are common access points for critters. Make sure they are sealed properly.

Take a flashlight to check dark corners, as bats can squeeze through holes as small as a quarter!

2. Choose the Right Materials

When sealing entry points, use materials that are durable and wildlife-resistant:

• Steel mesh or hardware cloth: Ideal for covering vents and any holes in the exterior. Ensure the mesh has small enough holes to prevent entry by even the smallest animals.
• Caulk: Great for sealing smaller gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other penetrations. Use a high-quality, weather-resistant caulk for longevity.
• Wood: Use to board up larger holes, ensuring it is secure and tightly fitted. Choose treated wood that can withstand the elements.

Local hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s in Columbia offer a variety of sealing materials that can help with your project.

3. Cover Vents and Exhaust Fans

Ensure that all attic vents and exhaust fans have covers that are designed to prevent wildlife entry. Consider installing vent screens or using heavy-duty hardware cloth over any openings. This allows for airflow while keeping critters out. Look for screens specifically designed to block small animals; these can often be found in local home improvement stores.

4. Trim Nearby Trees and Shrubs

Maintain your yard to reduce wildlife access. Trim branches of trees and shrubs that overhang or are close to your roof, as these serve as natural bridges for animals like squirrels and raccoons. Keeping a distance of at least 6–8 feet between trees and your home can significantly reduce the risk of an unwanted visitor. You might also want to consider planting thorny bushes or installing a fence that can deter climbing animals.

5. Install a Wildlife Barrier

For added protection, consider installing a wildlife barrier around your home’s perimeter. This could include fencing or landscaping techniques that deter animals. Native plants, like the Carolina Jessamine or Southern Wax Myrtle, can help keep wildlife at bay while enhancing the aesthetic of your yard. Installing a barrier made from chicken wire or similar material can also be effective, particularly around gardens and other areas that may attract wildlife.

6. Regular Maintenance

Conduct seasonal inspections to ensure that your sealing efforts remain intact. Check for new gaps, wear and tear on your materials, and any signs of wildlife activity. It’s also wise to keep your attic clean and free from debris, which can attract pests. Look for signs of entry, such as droppings or nesting materials, and address these issues promptly.

7. Get a Professional Inspection

Even after taking all the necessary precautions, there’s always a chance that some wildlife may still find a way in. That’s why it’s a good idea to schedule a professional wildlife inspection by a local pest control company like Natural Roots Pest Control & Wildlife Removal. Their trained experts can thoroughly assess your property, identify any overlooked entry points, and recommend additional preventative measures tailored specifically to your home.

Natural Roots Pest Control & Wildlife Removal is familiar with the common wildlife issues in Columbia and can provide solutions that comply with local regulations and environmental considerations. Our team of local wildlife professionals also has the tools and knowledge to safely remove any unwanted guests, including raccoons, bats, squirrels, snakes, possums, and more, should they already be residing in your attic. Contact us to schedule a free inspection!