Animal Damage On Roofs
Posted on: 30 March 2020
It can be easy to forego regular inspections of your roof when it is still relatively new, but this can be a huge mistake. Certain pests don't care if your roof has plenty of life left in it; they may still cause damage and destroy it. Even in urban areas there are animals, like raccoons and birds, that will damage a roof. Walk around your house once a month and inspect the roof for the following signs of animal activity. This way, problems are caught early while they can still be repaired.
Damaged Eaves
Eaves can suffer damage from a range of animals. Woodpeckers and sapsuckers sometimes "drum" on wooden fascia boards, either in an effort to attract mates or to grab insects that have invaded the wood. This drumming can lead to cracks and holes in the fascia. Small rodents, like squirrels, may also chew through the eaves or push in soffit vents to get into the shelter of the attic. Cracks, holes, and vent damage can lead to leaks in your home, as well as animals nesting inside the attic. Fortunately, the eaves are easy to inspect from the ground. If you spot damage, then it needs to be patched immediately. You can also have a residential roofer install metal eaves, which will be resistant to damage.
Lifted Shingles
Shingle damage isn't necessarily due to animals. Wind and storms are often the initial cause of a lifted shingle. The problem is when animals take notice of the damage. Raccoons, in particular, may take the opportunity to investigate the lifted shingle and possibly tear off more. These clever pests have been known to pull off shingles and break through roof decking to get into the warm, dry attic, which then provides the perfect place for them to nest and raise their young. By spotting shingle damage early, you can have it repaired before local wildlife takes advantage of the opportunity to invade your home.
Broken Vent Caps
Birds, rodents, and raccoons may also seek entrance into your home via the vents and chimneys on your roof. This is typically achieved by tearing off the vent caps that are designed to keep animals and debris out. Smaller animals and birds will usually only mess with the vents if they are already damaged, such as in a storm. Larger animals, like raccoons, may pull off the caps or flashing around the vents even if they aren't damaged. You may be able to spot the damage from the ground, but sometimes you will need to be on a ladder to be able to see the caps clearly.
Contact a roofing service in your area if you suspect any animal damage to the roof.
Share