Squirrel proofing works best when it follows a clear order: confirm the loft is actually clear of squirrels first, then close off every way in, then deal with anything nearby that makes the roof an easy target in future. Doing proofing work before removal simply traps squirrels inside — or blocks a mother from reaching young still in the nest — so the starting point always has to be a proper inspection.
Step one: a full inspection, not a guess
Before any proofing goes ahead, the loft and roofline need to be checked thoroughly, both from inside the roof space and from outside at eaves level. On many Windsor properties, particularly older houses with decorative roofline detailing, there can be more than one entry point in use at once, so it's important not to seal the first gap found and assume the job is done.
Priority areas once the loft is confirmed clear
- Soffits and fascias — the most common entry route, especially where timber has softened or a board has come loose
- Roof tiles and ridge lines — gaps from slipped or missing tiles, particularly near valleys
- Gable end vents and roof vents — should be fitted with squirrel-proof mesh rather than left open
- Gaps around chimneys — an easy overlooked entry point, particularly on older Windsor properties
- Any point where a tree branch gives direct access to the roof
Materials that actually hold up
Squirrels can and will chew through weak or thin materials, so proofing needs to use products strong enough to resist gnawing — heavy-gauge galvanised mesh rather than plastic guards, and properly fixed timber repairs rather than a quick patch. Cutting corners on materials at this stage tends to mean redoing the work within a year or two, once a determined squirrel finds the weak point.
Don't overlook ongoing maintenance
Proofing isn't a one-off job you can forget about. Trees grow, timber weathers, and mesh can work loose over time, so it's worth having the roofline checked periodically, particularly after storms or heavy weather, which is common enough in Windsor's exposed riverside areas.
Getting the order right — clear, then proof, then maintain — makes a real difference to how long the work lasts. Pest Services Berkshire carries out squirrel removal and proofing together for Windsor properties, so the job is done properly from the first visit. Contact us for a free quotation.
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