Soffits and fascias run along the edge of almost every roofline, closing off the gap between the wall and the roof and giving guttering somewhere to fix on to. They're also, unfortunately, one of the favourite targets for grey squirrels looking for a way into a loft, and damage here is one of the clearest external signs of a squirrel problem on Theale properties.
What squirrel damage to soffits and fascias looks like
- Splintered or gnawed edges around a hole, often with visible tooth marks in the wood
- A gap that looks recently enlarged compared to surrounding, undamaged sections
- Dark, greasy staining around a regularly used entry hole, caused by repeated contact with fur
- Boards that have pulled away slightly from the fascia or wall, creating a gap behind them
- Small piles of wood shavings or debris on the ground directly below the affected area
Why soffits and fascias are especially vulnerable
Timber soffits and fascias soften over time through weathering, moisture and general wear, which makes them easier for a squirrel to gnaw through than sound, dry timber. uPVC versions are more resistant but not immune, particularly at joints or where fixings have loosened, leaving a gap a determined squirrel can work at.
Why one damaged section rarely stays isolated
Once a squirrel establishes a route in through a weak point in the soffit or fascia, the same spot tends to get used repeatedly, gradually enlarging the hole. The scent left behind can also attract other squirrels to the same entry point, meaning a single damaged section can end up serving as an entry route for more than one animal over time.
Repair versus proper proofing
Patching a hole with whatever's to hand rarely holds up against a squirrel's teeth for long. Effective repair needs to use materials sturdy enough to resist gnawing, fitted properly so there's no remaining gap behind or around the repair - otherwise the same weak point simply reopens.
If you've spotted chewed or damaged soffits or fascias on your Theale property, it's worth having it checked before it becomes a full loft infestation. Contact Pest Services Berkshire for a free quotation covering both removal, if squirrels are already inside, and proper proofing of the damaged area.
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