How To Stop Squirrels From Climbing House

How to Stop Squirrels from Climbing House

Squirrels are adorable creatures, but they can also be a nuisance when they start climbing on your house. Not only do they damage your property, but they also pose a threat to your electrical wires and insulation. If you want to keep squirrels away from your house, here are some effective methods to consider.

1. Block Their Access Points

The first step to stopping squirrels from climbing your house is to make sure they can`t access it in the first place. Squirrels are excellent climbers, and they can easily make their way up to your roof using trees, power lines, or any other type of ledge they can jump onto. Walk around the perimeter of your house and look for possible entry points. These can include gaps in your roofline, damaged screens, or even open vents. Make sure to seal these openings with wire mesh or hardware cloth, as squirrels can easily chew through materials like wood and plastic.

2. Use Metal Sheeting

Squirrels have strong and sharp claws that allow them to grip onto most surfaces. However, they struggle to climb on metal surfaces due to their smooth and slippery nature. One way to prevent squirrels from climbing your house is to install metal sheeting on the areas they usually use as footholds, such as the corners of your house or near your gutters. You can also wrap metal sheeting around trees that are close to your house to prevent squirrels from using them as a bridge to your roof.

3. Trim Tree Branches

Trees are a squirrel`s best friend when it comes to climbing houses. By trimming tree branches that are close to your house, you can significantly reduce squirrels` access points. Make sure to trim any branches that are within 6-8 feet of your roof or gutters. This will make it harder for squirrels to jump onto your roof and gain access to your house. It`s also a good idea to keep your trees pruned regularly to prevent them from overhanging onto your roof and creating pathways for squirrels.

4. Use Squirrel Deterrents

There are various squirrel deterrents available in the market that can be effective in keeping squirrels away from your house. These include motion-activated sprinklers, ultrasonic devices, and even natural repellents like predator urine or pepper spray. However, keep in mind that these deterrents may not work on all squirrels and may require frequent reapplication. Also, some of these methods may not be suitable for those with pets or small children, so make sure to read the labels and instructions carefully before using them.

5. Install Squirrel Guards

If you have a chimney or attic vents, squirrels can easily use them as entry points to your house. However, you can install mesh or wire guards over these openings to prevent squirrels from entering. These guards will also keep other rodents and birds from nesting in these areas. Make sure to use sturdy materials and secure them tightly to prevent squirrels from pulling them off.

6. Try Natural Deterrents

Another effective way to keep squirrels from climbing your house is by using natural deterrents. Squirrels are not fans of certain smells, and you can use this to your advantage. You can scatter some mothballs around your house, spray a mixture of water and vinegar near their entry points, or place some strong-smelling herbs or spices like peppermint, cayenne pepper, or garlic near your roof. However, keep in mind that these methods may not work on all squirrels, and you may need to switch up the scents occasionally.

7. Repair Any Damage

If squirrels have already made their way into your house, make sure to repair any damage as soon as possible. Check your attic, walls, and insulation for any signs of damage, and make sure to fix them before they get worse. You can also use steel wool or caulk to plug up any holes or gaps in your walls or roofline. This will prevent squirrels from entering and re-entering your house.

In conclusion, there are various ways to stop squirrels from climbing your house. By implementing these methods, you can protect your property and keep these furry creatures at bay. Remember to keep an eye out for any signs of damage and regularly check for entry points to prevent squirrels from finding their way into your home.