Once squirrels have been cleared from a loft, the job isn't really finished until the property has been proofed. Soffits and fascias — the horizontal and vertical boards that finish off the edge of the roof — are consistently the weakest point on Sandhurst homes, and they're exactly where squirrels concentrate their efforts to get in.
Why soffits and fascias are so vulnerable
Traditional timber soffits and fascias are prone to warping, rotting and pulling away slightly from the roof structure as they age, especially where guttering has leaked or paint has worn thin. Even uPVC versions can develop gaps at joints and corners over time. Squirrels are quick to find and exploit these weak spots, and once they've gnawed at the edge of an opening, the gap only gets bigger.
What squirrel proofing actually involves
- A full external inspection of the roofline to identify every existing and potential entry point, not just the obvious one
- Repair or replacement of damaged, rotten or gnawed sections of soffit and fascia board
- Fitting heavy-gauge, chew-resistant mesh over vulnerable gaps and gable end vents
- Sealing smaller gaps around pipes, cables and vent penetrations through the roofline
- Checking and refitting loose or missing roof tiles that could otherwise offer an alternative way in
Why proofing has to follow removal, not replace it
Sealing up entry points before squirrels have actually left the roof space can trap animals inside — which creates a far worse problem, including distress calling, further damage as they try to get out, and the risk of a carcass being left in an inaccessible part of the loft. Proofing is the final stage of a proper squirrel control job, carried out once the technician is confident the loft is clear.
Materials that actually stand up to a squirrel
Not all repair materials are equal here. Lightweight plastic filler or thin mesh is easily gnawed through by an animal with a squirrel's jaw strength. Durable proofing uses materials specifically chosen to resist chewing, fitted securely enough that they can't simply be pulled or worked loose at the edges.
If your Sandhurst property has damaged soffits or fascias, or you've recently had squirrels removed and want the roofline properly secured, it's worth having it assessed by someone who deals with this regularly. Pest Services Berkshire carries out squirrel proofing across Sandhurst — call 0118 336 1366 for a free quotation.
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