Soffit damage is one of the most visible signs of a squirrel problem, and it's often what first alerts homeowners in Twyford to an issue — even before they hear anything from inside the loft. Chewed, splintered or gapped soffit boards along the roofline usually mean squirrels have found, or are actively working on, a way into the roof space.
Why soffits are a favourite target
Soffit boards sit at the underside of the roof overhang and are often made of timber, especially on older properties, which makes them relatively easy for squirrels to gnaw through compared to brickwork or tiling. They also tend to have natural joints and edges where movement over time creates small gaps — exactly the kind of weak point squirrels are quick to exploit and enlarge.
What to do if you spot damage
- Don't attempt to seal or repair the gap yourself if you suspect squirrels are already inside the loft
- Check for other signs of activity — noise, droppings, or disturbed insulation visible from the loft hatch
- Take note of where the damage is, as this helps identify the entry point during an inspection
- Avoid disturbing the area more than necessary, particularly during spring when young squirrels may be present
- Arrange a professional inspection to confirm whether the loft is currently occupied
Why DIY soffit repairs can backfire
It's a natural instinct to want to board up a hole in the soffit as soon as you spot it, but doing so before confirming the loft is clear risks sealing squirrels inside, which can lead to further damage as they try to chew their way back out, or worse. Repairs need to happen in the right order — confirm activity, remove any squirrels present, then repair and proof the soffit properly.
Getting it properly fixed
A proper repair goes beyond patching the immediate hole. Because squirrels often test several points along a roofline before settling on one, it's worth having the whole soffit and fascia run checked, not just the obvious damaged section, so any other developing weak points are caught and closed off at the same time.
If you've noticed chewed or damaged soffits on your Twyford property, don't patch it up and hope for the best. Contact Pest Services Berkshire for an inspection that checks both for current activity and for the underlying entry point, so it can be fixed properly and for good.
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