Stop Squirrels from Chewing Through Your Roof: Humane Methods

Posted on February 19, 2026 by richmond

Protecting your home from wildlife intrusions can feel like a daunting task, especially when persistent squirrels target your roof. Not only can their chewing cause significant structural damage, but it also opens the door to further complications, such as water leaks or additional pest infestations. Understanding why squirrels behave this way and how to effectively prevent them from causing harm is crucial for safeguarding your home and maintaining peace of mind. This guide will cover this and more.

TL;DR: Squirrels can damage your roof by chewing through soffits, fascia, and vents to access your attic. Prevent entry by sealing gaps with metal flashing or heavy-duty hardware cloth, trimming tree branches at least 6–8 feet from your roofline, installing chimney caps, and using repellents like capsaicin spray. Regular maintenance and inspection are key to keeping squirrels out for good.

Key Takeaways:

Squirrels need only a 1.5-inch gap to enter your roof or attic
Metal flashing and 16-gauge steel mesh are the most durable exclusion materials
Tree branches should be trimmed 6–8 feet away from your home
Capsaicin-based repellents can deter chewing on wood and wiring
Professional help is recommended if you suspect an active infestation

Table of Contents:

Why Do Squirrels Chew on Roofs?
Common Entry Points Around Your Roof
Installing Physical Barriers
Using Repellents to Discourage Chewing
Essential Maintenance Tips
When to Call a Professional
FAQ
Quick Recap
Get a Squirrel Removal Quote in Richmond

Got Squirrels on the Roof in Richmond Virginia?

Why Do Squirrels Chew on Roofs?

Squirrels chew to maintain their constantly growing teeth, which can reach up to 6 inches per year if left unchecked. Materials like wood, plastic, and soft metals provide the perfect resistance for gnawing. When squirrels discover a weak spot on your roof—such as deteriorated fascia boards or plastic roof vents—they’ll expand even a dime-sized crack into an opening large enough to squeeze through.

Your attic offers warmth, safety from predators, and abundant nesting material in the form of insulation. This makes it an ideal shelter, especially during breeding seasons in early spring and late summer. Once inside, squirrels can cause serious damage by chewing through electrical wiring, tearing up insulation, and leaving droppings that create odors and potential health hazards.

Common Entry Points Around Your Roof

Identifying vulnerable spots is your first line of defense. Here are the most common places squirrels gain access:

Roof and Gable Vents

Plastic and aluminum roof vents are no match for a determined squirrel. These vents release warm air from your attic, but their soft materials make them easy targets for gnawing. Gable vents on either side of your roof are equally vulnerable.

Fascia Boards and Soffits

Fascia boards run along the lower edge of your roof, covering the roofline to keep water out. In some homes, construction gaps above the fascia allow squirrels to squeeze in. If the wood has been weakened by moisture or ice dams, it becomes even easier for squirrels to chew through. Soffits—the undersides of roof overhangs—are another frequent entry point.

Roof Edges and Intersections

Where two roofs meet, shingles rarely seal flush with the soffit above, creating small gaps. Deteriorating shingles at roof edges also soften over time, making them easier to chew.

Wall Vents and Plumbing Mats

Exhaust vents for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms often have plastic covers that squirrels can gnaw through. Plumbing vent pipes exit through the roof with rubber mats that may leave gaps large enough for entry.

Chimneys

An uncapped chimney is an open invitation. While squirrels can fall down the flue and become trapped in your fireplace, they may also nest in the chimney itself.

Installing Physical Barriers

The most effective way to keep squirrels out is exclusion—physically blocking their access with materials they cannot chew through.

Use Heavy-Duty Hardware Cloth

Cover vulnerable areas with 1/4- to 1/2-inch hardware cloth. For squirrels, solid aluminum flashing is recommended. For raccoons and larger pests, use 16-gauge 1-by-1-inch steel mesh. Staple or screw the mesh securely over entry points.

Install Metal Flashing on Fascia Boards

A drip edge made of metal flashing can be installed under your first row of shingles to hang over the fascia’s edge. This prevents squirrels from chewing through the wood or exploiting construction gaps.

Add Chimney Caps and Vent Guards

A sturdy, animal-proof chimney cap will keep squirrels (and birds) from entering your chimney. Box vents and ridge vents should be covered with specialized guards or heavy mesh that won’t deteriorate over time.

Seal Gable Vents

Replace flimsy bug screens on gable vents with sturdy hardware cloth to provide better protection and withstand gnawing from pests. Bug screens are often too weak to handle persistent chewing, but hardware cloth offers a durable solution, ensuring your vents remain secure while keeping unwanted critters out.

Install One-Way Exclusion Doors

If squirrels are already inside, attach a one-way funnel or commercially available exclusion door to their entry hole. This allows them to leave but not re-enter. Once all squirrels are out, permanently seal the opening with metal flashing or hardware cloth.

Important: Never seal an entry hole during midday or late evening when squirrels may be inside. Always check for juveniles before excluding adults, as young squirrels remain in the nest for 10–12 weeks. Professional squirrel removal and exclusion is strongly encouraged.

Using Repellents to Discourage Chewing

While physical barriers are most reliable, repellents can provide additional protection.

Capsaicin-Based Sprays

Capsaicin, derived from hot peppers, irritates squirrels’ mouths and discourages chewing. Apply it to birdseed, feeders, or areas where squirrels have been gnawing. Birds are less sensitive to capsaicin, so it won’t deter them from feeders.

Other Natural Repellents

Products containing garlic, peppermint oil, or predator urine may offer temporary relief. Always follow label instructions and reapply as needed, especially after rain.

Polybutenes

These sticky polymer substances can be applied to structures to discourage climbing. However, they can be messy and may not be practical for all surfaces.

Motion-Activated Devices

Lights or sprinklers triggered by movement can startle squirrels and interrupt their routines. While not a permanent solution, they can buy you time to seal entry points.

Note: Ultrasonic devices that claim to repel squirrels with high-frequency sound have not been proven effective in scientific studies.

Essential Maintenance Tips

Prevention is easier than removal. Regular upkeep keeps your home less attractive to squirrels.

Trim Tree Branches

Squirrels can jump up to 4 feet vertically and 8 feet horizontally. Keep tree branches and overhanging limbs at least 6–8 feet away from your roofline to limit their access.

Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters provide nesting materials and make it easier for squirrels to access your roof. Clean them at least twice a year, ideally in the fall before winter sets in.

Inspect Your Roof Annually

Schedule a professional inspection each fall to check for loose shingles, deteriorating fascia, and damaged vents. Addressing these issues early prevents squirrels from exploiting weak spots.

Remove Food Sources

If you feed birds, use a baffle on feeder poles or switch to squirrel-proof feeders enclosed in steel cages. Consider setting up a “sacrificial” feeder stocked with cracked corn away from your home to lure squirrels elsewhere.

When to Call a Professional Squirrel Control Service

DIY methods work well for prevention, but active infestations require expert intervention.

Signs You Need Professional Help:

Persistent scratching or scurrying noises in your attic, especially at dawn or dusk
Visible droppings, urine stains, or nesting material in your attic
Chewed wiring or insulation
Multiple entry points or recurring break-ins after you’ve sealed holes
Foul odors from accumulated waste

Professional wildlife control operators have the training and equipment to safely remove squirrels, clean contaminated areas, and install permanent exclusions. They can also identify all entry points you may have missed.

FAQ’s

How much does it cost to repair squirrel damage to a roof?

Costs vary depending on the extent of the damage. Minor repairs like patching a soffit or sealing a vent may cost a few hundred dollars, while replacing fascia boards, fixing wiring, or restoring attic insulation can run into the thousands. Early intervention is always more affordable.

Can squirrels chew through metal?

Squirrels can gnaw soft metals like lead (often found on vent pipe boots) and aluminum. However, they cannot chew through heavy-gauge steel mesh or solid metal flashing, which is why these materials are recommended for exclusion.

What time of year are squirrels most active on roofs?

Squirrels are most active in early spring (February–March) and late summer (July–August) when they breed and seek shelter for their young. Fall is also busy as they forage and store food for winter.

Are there any humane ways to deter squirrels?

Yes. Exclusion devices like one-way doors allow squirrels to leave but not return. Live traps can capture squirrels for relocation, though most states prohibit transporting wildlife across county lines. Always check local regulations before trapping or relocating.

Do mothballs or rodenticides work on squirrels?

No. These products are not labeled for squirrel control and are illegal to use for this purpose. They can also pose health risks to pets and humans.

How do I know if a squirrel is still in my attic?

Loosely stuff a suspected entry hole with paper towels or insulation. Check after three days. If the material has been pushed aside, a squirrel is likely still using that entrance. You can also use a game camera to monitor activity.

Quick Recap:

Seal all gaps larger than 1.5 inches with metal flashing or 16-gauge hardware cloth
Install chimney caps and vent guards to block common entry points
Trim tree branches 6–8 feet away from your roofline
Use capsaicin-based repellents on areas prone to chewing
Inspect your roof annually, especially before fall and winter
Check for signs of infestation: scratching noises, droppings, chewed wiring, or foul odors
Call a professional if squirrels are already inside or if damage is extensive

Protect Your Home Before Damage Gets Worse

Squirrels are persistent, but with the right combination of exclusion, repellents, and maintenance, you can keep them off your roof for good. Early action prevents costly repairs and protects your home from structural and electrical damage.

If you suspect squirrels have already moved into your attic or are chewing through your roof, don’t wait. Contact our licensed wildlife control professionals in Richmond, VA, for a thorough inspection and humane removal. The sooner you address the problem, the less damage you’ll face—and the more peace of mind you’ll have.

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Animals That Hibernate in Virginia: Fun Facts for Wildlife Lovers

Posted on February 11, 2026 by richmond

TL;DR and Key Takeaways:

Virginia winters might seem mild compared to the Arctic, but for many local species, survival requires shutting down.

True Hibernators: Only a few Virginia mammals, like groundhogs and little brown bats, are “true” hibernators that experience drastic drops in body temperature and heart rate.
Torpor vs. Hibernation: Black bears and other mammals enter a lighter sleep state called torpor, meaning they can wake up quickly if disturbed.
Cold-Blooded Survival: Reptiles and amphibians use unique methods like brumation (turtles) and even freezing solid (wood frogs) to survive.
Human Impact: Homeowners play a critical role in keeping these animals safe by minimizing disturbance during the winter months.

Table of Contents:

Which Virginia Mammals Are True Hibernators?
Do Virginia Black Bears Actually Hibernate?
Where Do Reptiles and Amphibians Go in the Winter?
How Can You Help Wildlife During the Cold Months?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick Recap
Professional Service in Richmond

Which Virginia Mammals Are True Hibernators?

The Groundhog (Woodchuck) and the Little Brown Bat are among the few true hibernators in the Commonwealth.

While many animals slow down in the winter, very few are “true” hibernators. True hibernation is a profound physiological change where an animal’s body temperature drops to near freezing, and its heart rate plummets to a fraction of its normal speed. In Virginia, two notable species fit this description perfectly.

The Groundhog

Famous for its shadow-casting abilities in February, groundhogs (or woodchucks) are champion sleepers. According to the Wildlife Center of Virginia, these rodents remain in their underground dens from October through February.

During this time, a groundhog is not just napping. Its body temperature drops significantly, and its heart rate slows down dramatically to conserve energy. Because they are true hibernators, they are rarely seen above ground during these months. Their burrows—often located on slopes—can be quite extensive, featuring multiple chambers and entrances.

The Little Brown Bat

The Little Brown Bat takes energy conservation to the extreme. The National Park Service notes that during hibernation, this bat’s heart rate drops from a frantic 200-300 beats per minute to a mere 10 beats per minute.

These bats retreat to “hibernacula”—typically caves, mines, or rock crevices with stable temperatures—where they can hang in a state of torpor for up to six months. In this deep sleep, bodily functions slow by nearly 98%, allowing them to survive on stored fat reserves until insects return in the spring.

Do Virginia Black Bears Actually Hibernate?

No, black bears enter a state called torpor, which is a lighter, more temporary form of dormancy. It is a common misconception that bears sleep deeply through the entire winter. In reality, Virginia’s black bears experience what biologists call “winter lethargy” or torpor.

While a bear’s heart rate does slow down, its body temperature remains relatively high compared to a true hibernator like a groundhog. This evolutionary adaptation allows bears to wake up quickly if they are threatened or if the weather turns surprisingly warm.

According to reports from WVTF and wildlife experts, black bears in Virginia “ramp down” their activity but can technically be found out and about all year long, especially given the state’s fluctuating winter temperatures. This is particularly important for female bears, who give birth to cubs in late January or early February. They must remain alert enough to care for their newborns within the den.

Where Do Reptiles and Amphibians Go in the Winter?

Reptiles enter a state called brumation, while some amphibians, like the Wood Frog, can literally freeze solid. Since reptiles and amphibians are ectothermic (cold-blooded), they cannot regulate their own body heat. When the temperatures drop, they must rely on the environment to survive.

Box Turtles and Brumation

The Eastern Box Turtle, a common sight in Virginia backyards, disappears when the cold sets in. They enter brumation, which is similar to hibernation but specific to reptiles.

According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR), box turtles overwinter by burying themselves several centimeters deep in the soil, usually beneath piles of leaf litter or grass clumps in mature forests. They remain there until early spring, relying on the insulation of the earth to keep them from freezing.

The Miracle of the Wood Frog

The Wood Frog has perhaps the most incredible survival strategy of all. While most frogs hibernate underwater to avoid freezing, the Wood Frog stays on land, nestled in leaf litter.

The National Park Service describes this as a “biological miracle.” The Wood Frog’s liver produces large amounts of glucose, which acts as a natural antifreeze for its cells. This allows the space between the cells to freeze solid while protecting the cells themselves from damage. During this time, the frog has no heartbeat and does not breathe. It is essentially a frozen statue until the spring thaw warms it back to life.

How Can You Help Wildlife During the Cold Months?

Maintain a hands-off approach and keep your yard wildlife-friendly. Winter is a vulnerable time for local wildlife. Energy conservation is critical for survival, and human disturbance can be fatal. If an animal is forced to wake up and move, it burns precious fat reserves it needs to survive until spring.

Here are a few ways you can help:

Leave Leaves Alone: Piles of leaves and brush provide essential insulation for box turtles, frogs, and insects. Consider leaving a corner of your yard “wild” during the winter.
Do Not Disturb Dens: If you find a burrow or a potential bear den, keep your distance. The Wildlife Center of Virginia advises against boarding up groundhog burrows between October and February, as you risk trapping a hibernating animal inside.
Leash Your Pets: Unsupervised dogs can sniff out and disturb hibernating animals. Keep pets on a leash, especially near wooded areas, to prevent stressful encounters.
Wait Until Spring: If you have a nuisance animal issue involving a burrow, it is often best—and most humane—to wait until March to address it, once the animals have naturally emerged.

Need help managing wildlife on your property? If you are concerned about an animal den near your home, contact a professional for humane wildlife control in Richmond, VA.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What if I see a turtle crossing the road in December?

While rare, unseasonably warm days in Virginia can trick reptiles into waking up briefly. If the animal is not in immediate danger, it is best to leave it alone. It will likely return to brumation as temperatures drop again.

Do squirrels hibernate?

No, tree squirrels (like the Grey Squirrel) do not hibernate. They rely on food caches (nuts and seeds) they buried in the fall to survive the winter. You will see them active throughout the season.

Is it dangerous to wake a hibernating animal?

Yes, primarily for the animal. Waking up requires a massive expenditure of energy. If an animal wakes up too often or too early, it may starve before spring arrives.

Quick Recap:

Groundhogs: True hibernators that sleep underground from October to February.
Bats: True hibernators that drop their heart rate to ~10 bpm in caves or mines.
Black Bears: Enter torpor (light sleep); they can wake up quickly and may be active on warm days.
Box Turtles: Enter brumation, burying themselves in soil and leaves.
Wood Frogs: Survive by freezing solid, using glucose as natural antifreeze.
Homeowners: Should avoid disturbing leaf piles and burrows to protect sleeping wildlife.

Helping You Coexist with Nature

Understanding the secret lives of animals in winter helps us appreciate the complexity of Virginia’s ecosystem. While these creatures are resilient, they need our respect and space to survive the cold season. By being mindful of our surroundings, we can ensure that our wild neighbors wake up healthy and ready for spring.

If you suspect you have a wild animal sheltering in your attic, crawlspace, or under your porch, do not attempt to handle it yourself. Professional intervention ensures the safety of both your family and the wildlife. Contact us today for safe and humane wildlife control services in Richmond, VA.

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