Raccoons pose a serious threat to rooftops and homeowners. Raccoons harm homes by ripping off the shingles and gnawing on the insulation. These critters get into homes through an open window or door and seriously damage the structure, which can result in leaks, mold and pest infestation. Raccoons can be a nuisance even if they don’t destroy any property since they venture outside at night in search of food and water.
To help keep these critters off your downspouts, here’s a list of things you can do.
1. Install pest spikes. By using nails, spikes or wire, pest guards are intended to deter animals – particularly raccoons – from climbing into your tree branches and gutters. Raccoons trying to climb over them will get poked by these things, which are wrapped around trees and downspouts. To prevent mishaps, make sure that things are placed in an area where young children cannot access them.
2. Attach anti-raccoon baffles. Raccoons are often attracted to water, especially in downspouts. They can get into your home, attic or soffits by climbing up your downspouts or entering through your roof. A baffle is a device that is put at the end of a downspout to keep raccoons from climbing in. It can be made out of metal, wood, plastic, or concrete.
3. Trim back tree limbs. You should trim any tree branches that are getting too close to your downspouts and roof. This will close off access to your roof. Additionally, residential roofing contractors advise doing this to prevent leaves and other organic debris from accumulating on your roof or gutters. To reduce damage from falling branches, ensure tree limbs never cross your roof.
4. Grease your downspouts. To prevent raccoons from scaling the gutter, oil a 24-inch piece of your downspout with automotive grease. Raccoons will slide down a stretch of greased downspouts because they can’t use their claws to gain any traction on downspouts, which they must hug to ascend.
5. Clean your yard. Raccoons are drawn to your property by the potential of food that may be lying around your yard. They most likely started climbing your downspouts because your house serves as a warm home base for them. Remove all food sources outside to keep raccoons away and stop them from coming back.
The Roofing Company offers new roof installation services. We also have expertise in gutters, venting, roof snow removal and more. Call us at (970) 887-0104, or fill out our contact form to start a conversation with us. Our Colorado service areas include Aspen and other surrounding areas.