Once a squirrel has decided your roof space looks appealing, it doesn't take much of a gap to get in. Grey squirrels are strong, agile, and have teeth capable of widening a small crack into a usable hole within a short space of time, so understanding where they typically get in helps with spotting the problem early. Hungerford's housing stock varies enormously, from Georgian terraces near the town centre to thatched cottages, converted farm buildings and modern estate housing on the outskirts, and each type of roofline has its own particular weak points — though a handful of entry routes come up again and again.
Roofline Entry Points
- Gaps where soffit boards have warped, rotted, or come away slightly from the fascia
- Joints between fascia boards that have opened up over time
- Damaged or missing bargeboards at the gable end
- Gaps in eaves where the roofline meets the wall
- Roof valleys where two roof slopes meet and small gaps can go unnoticed
- Slipped, cracked or missing roof tiles that leave a usable opening underneath
Vents and Gaps
Gable end vents and ridge vents are designed to let the roof space breathe, but unless they're properly meshed, they're also a ready-made entry point for a determined squirrel. Gaps left around pipework where it passes through the roofline are another common weak spot, particularly on properties that have had work done over the years without every penetration being properly sealed afterward.
Chimneys and Other Access
Less common, but still worth checking, is entry via an uncapped or poorly capped chimney. It's not the most typical route compared to the roofline itself, but on properties with older or disused chimneys it's worth including in any inspection.
Why Squirrels Exploit These Points
A squirrel doesn't need a large gap to get in — a hole around the size of a tennis ball is often enough, and their strong claws and gnawing teeth allow them to enlarge a smaller opening if it's close to what they need. This is why even minor roofline deterioration shouldn't be dismissed as purely cosmetic.
If you're not sure where squirrels might be getting into your Hungerford property, a proper roofline inspection is the best way to find out. Pest Services Berkshire can identify the specific entry points on your home and advise on the right proofing to close them off for good.
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